Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Grandma’s Juicy Grilled Chicken

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Grandma’s Juicy Grilled Chicken is a timeless backyard classic with a flavorful lemon-herb marinade that keeps the chicken moist, tender, and full of flavor. Perfect for BBQs or weeknight dinners.

  • Total Time: 4 hours 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

4 pieces boneless chicken breasts, pounded to ½-inch even thickness

¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 tbsp lemon zest (from 1 large lemon)

2 tbsp lemon juice, freshly squeezed

1 tsp dried oregano (or Italian seasoning)

1 tsp dried thyme

1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)

½ tsp ground black pepper

1 tsp brown sugar (optional, for caramelized flavor)

½ tsp smoked paprika (optional, for smoky flavor)

Instructions

  1. Pound chicken breasts to ½-inch even thickness using a meat mallet between parchment paper.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Add brown sugar and smoked paprika if desired.
  3. Place chicken in a zip-lock bag and pour in the marinade, reserving a little for basting. Seal and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
  4. Preheat grill to medium-high heat (375–400°F) and oil the grates.
  5. Remove chicken from marinade and grill for 2–3 minutes per side for sear marks, then continue cooking 5–6 minutes per side until chicken reaches 165°F internally. Baste with reserved marinade.
  6. Remove chicken from grill and let rest under foil for 5 minutes.
  7. Slice and serve hot.

Notes

  • Marinate overnight for maximum flavor.
  • Pound chicken evenly to ensure even cooking.
  • For added flavor, try swapping herbs or adding chili flakes for heat.
  • Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure doneness at 165°F.
  • Author: Julia
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
  • Calories: 280
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 520mg
  • Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 11g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 2g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 34g
  • Cholesterol: 95mg