The Best Grilled Chicken
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Say goodbye to dry, bland grilled chicken breasts. This recipe guarantees juicy, flavorful chicken every time.
Sometimes in cooking the simplest dishes are the hardest to get right, and grilled chicken is a perfect example. Because boneless chicken breasts are so lean, they often turn out dry, rubbery, and bland. Contrary to popular belief, marinating alone will not prevent grilled chicken from drying out; in fact, it’s often the marinade that causes the problem!
My technique and marinade ensure tender, juicy, and flavorful grilled chicken every time. You can serve the fillets on their own as a healthy main course (kids love them), topped with cheese on a toasted bun, or, as I often do, sliced over a Caesar salad. Bonus: the recipe is quick and easy. You do all of the prep ahead of time and you won’t even dirty a single bowl.
What You’ll Need To Make THE BEST Grilled Chicken
STEP-BY-STEP Instructions
Step 1: Pound the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts in a 1-gallon freezer bag and pound to an even ½-inch thickness. This both tenderizes the meat and ensures even cooking. Left in their natural shape, the thin side of the fillet dries out while the thicker side finishes cooking. If you don’t have a meat mallet, a rolling pin or a saucepan will both work well.
Step 2: Make the Marinade
Lemon is a key ingredient in this marinade, but I only use the zest. Contrary to conventional wisdom, acidic ingredients (such as vinegar or lemon juice) do not tenderize lean boneless chicken breasts. Just the opposite: they “cook” the exterior of the meat and give it a leathery texture. The zest gives the chicken ample lemon flavor without affecting the chicken’s succulent texture.
The best tool for zesting citrus is a fine or microplane grater. Simply rub the lemon in one direction against the blades, turning the lemon as you go. Be sure to remove only the yellow part; the white pith underneath is bitter.
Once you’ve zested the lemon, mix all of the marinade ingredients except for the chicken together in a 1-gallon zip-lock bag (go ahead and use the same one you used for pounding if it is still in good shape).
Add the chicken breasts to the bag and massage the marinade into the meat until evenly coated.
Step 3: Marinate
Seal the bag and place in a bowl in the refrigerator (the bowl protects against leakage); let the chicken marinate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Step 4: Grill
When you’re ready to eat, preheat your grill to high heat and oil the grates (clean, oiled grates will give you the best grill marks). Be sure your grill is very hot before cooking the chicken; you want nice grill marks and char in the short amount of time it takes to cook these. When pounded thin, chicken breasts only need 2 to 3 minutes per side…no more! If you try to flip the chicken and it feels stuck, try giving it 30 seconds. It’ll release naturally when it’s ready.
You’ll notice that the recipe calls for the grill to be covered while the chicken is cooking. This creates convection heat which helps give the chicken a nicely charred exterior and a tender, moist interior.
After removing the chicken from the grill, let it rest for 3 to 4 minutes before cutting into it. This will help keep the juices in and retain the meat’s moisture. (The timing is perfect as it’s just enough to get it onto plates, add sides, and put on the table).
While this chicken is best right off the grill, it’s also the kind of thing you can make a double batch of and freeze for future use in salads, pastas, and sandwiches.
video tutorial
Freezer-Friendly Tips
- Make sure the chicken is completely cooled before freezing it.
- Keep the chicken pieces whole (no slicing before freezing).
- To avoid multiple pieces stuck together (which extends defrosting time), wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap and then place them all in a ziploc bag. This also allows you to defrost one piece at a time if you’d like.
You May Also Like
- Grilled Moroccan Chicken
- Grilled Chicken Fajitas
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- Grilled Tequila Lime Chicken
- Grilled BBQ Chicken
The Best Grilled Chicken
Say goodbye to dry, bland grilled chicken breasts. This recipe guarantees juicy, flavorful chicken every time.
Ingredients
- 1¾ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 6 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 4 large garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- 1¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1½ teaspoons lemon zest, from one lemon
Instructions
- One at a time, place the chicken breasts in a 1-gallon zip-lock bag; using a meat mallet, pound to an even ½-inch thickness.
- Mix all of the ingredients except for the chicken together in a 1-gallon zip-lock bag (go ahead and use the same one you used for pounding if it is still in good shape). Add the chicken breasts to the bag and massage the marinade into the meat until evenly coated. Seal the bag and place in a bowl in the refrigerator (the bowl protects against leakage); let the chicken marinate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Preheat the grill to high heat and oil the grates. Place the chicken breasts on the grill and cook, covered, for 2 to 3 minutes per side. Do not overcook. Transfer the chicken to a platter and serve.
- Note: The nutritional information includes all of the ingredients for the marinade, so one serving is likely significantly lower in calories and fat than the numbers below
Pair with
Nutrition Information
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- Per serving (4 servings)
- Serving size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 413
- Fat: 25 g
- Saturated fat: 4 g
- Carbohydrates: 2 g
- Sugar: 0 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 42 g
- Sodium: 958 mg
- Cholesterol: 127 mg
This website is written and produced for informational purposes only. I am not a certified nutritionist and the nutritional data on this site has not been evaluated or approved by a nutritionist or the Food and Drug Administration. Nutritional information is offered as a courtesy and should not be construed as a guarantee. The data is calculated through an online nutritional calculator, Edamam.com. Although I do my best to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures should be considered estimates only. Varying factors such as product types or brands purchased, natural fluctuations in fresh produce, and the way ingredients are processed change the effective nutritional information in any given recipe. Furthermore, different online calculators provide different results depending on their own nutrition fact sources and algorithms. To obtain the most accurate nutritional information in a given recipe, you should calculate the nutritional information with the actual ingredients used in your recipe, using your preferred nutrition calculator.
Gluten-Free Adaptable Note
To the best of my knowledge, all of the ingredients used in this recipe are gluten-free or widely available in gluten-free versions. There is hidden gluten in many foods; if you're following a gluten-free diet or cooking for someone with gluten allergies, always read the labels of your ingredients to verify that they are gluten-free.
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My kids and husband flooded me with praises after I served them this meal. And they are very picky eaters. Thank you for sharing this recipe.
WOW! This chicken was juicy, flavorful and simple to make. I followed your recipe exactly, I don’t believe in making a recipe, changing it and leaving a review. I will change recipes after making it the first time but this recipe will be left as is, it’s that good! I couldn’t believe how juicy and flavorful it was. I will be honest, I was nervous when I followed your cook time per side and took it off the grill with the juices that formed on the plate I was nervous it was undercooked. It was PERFECT!!! I found you by looking for a good grilled chicken recipe, I’m now going to be a follower. So much flavor with just a few ingredients, I marinated for about 7 hours, delicious!! Thank you for such a healthy delicious grilled chicken recipe.
PS saving our leftovers to put on a salad 😉
After marinating the chicken, could I freeze it and then grill it later? We love all your recipes — thank you so much!!
So glad you like the recipes! Yes, you can freeze this in the marinade. 🙂
Thank you for this recipe. It was absolutely delicious. My wife, whom doesn’t like chicken much, thoroughly enjoyed it. Very moist and flavorful. The lemon zest was delicious. Not over powering but still enough to get a little taste. Very simple. I will absolutely use this all the time. Thanks again! I did add a pinch of paprika and it was delicious.
This recipe is my go-to! So easy and so delicious. I have both grilled and baked chicken breasts in this marinade and it turns out great either way. I’ve even been short on marinating time (an hour) and it still turns out fantastic. I eat leftovers over Greek salad and they’re perfect.
Made this for dinner last night. I followed the recipe exactly then marinated the chicken for about 4 hrs. My sweetheart grilled it longer than suggested, but it was still delicious and not at all dry. I’m SO glad I made a double batch as this satisfies my craving for restaurant quality grilled chicken…it’s a keeper!!
This made the best chicken! I did cheat and buy cutlest!!
The five star rating is legit! I made this recipe and it was amazing. The chicken was so flavorful and juicy. I was able to use dried herbs from my garden and had to sub lime for the lemon since it was an impromptu cookout. I had pre tenderized chicken breast and it saved time on the first step.
Sorry did not feel like this was a great recipe. First, while marinating in a bag, the marinade congealed which was weird. Added more oil. I did not feel they had much flavor.
The marinade congealed because olive oil solidifies when it is in the fridge (is a liquid at room temperature). It probably lost it’s flavor when you diluted it with extra oil. Might try it again, it’s an excellent and easy dish.
I would like to use my oven. I was planning to use the broil setting, about 4 inches below. Should I use a sheet pan or a broiler pan?
Hi Diane, I’d use a broiler pan. Hope you enjoy!
I make this recipe frequently as my family loves it. My favorite use for the grilled chicken is cut up in a kale salad.
Ive shared this recipe multiple times.
Can you air fry the chicken?
Hi, I don’t have an air fryer and don’t know much about using one so it’s hard to say for sure – I’m sorry! You may find these tips helpful in converting traditional recipes to air fryer versions. Hope that helps at least a bit!
I’ll be making this on a stovetop grill pan. Would you suggest any changes to the cooking instructions? Thank you!!
No changes necessary — hope you enjoy!
Fabulous recipe. Guests were impressed even before it went on the grill – with the lovely fragrance of the marinade. Your cooking tips helped keep the chicken moist. Definitely a keeper. I used whole sprigs of thyme and oregano in the marinade, discarding them pre-grilling, of course.
Wonder if zest of lime would work as well as lemon?
It will have a slightly different flavor, but it will definitely work. Hope you enjoy!
This is my go to recipe for a tasty chicken marinade, it never fails to please! I’m planning to marinate chicken thighs (with bone 🍖) and was wondering if you recommend removing the skin before grilling?
So glad you like this! You can go either way regarding the skin — it’s more personal preference. Enjoy!
If I’m not ready to use the marinade, how do I store it until I need to use it? Does it stay on the kitchen counter or should I keep it in the fridge? Thanks in advance!
I would refrigerate it until you’re ready to use it.
This is another home run from Jenn! I didn’t get my act together in time to marinate for 24 hours so the chicken got 5.5 hours before grilling. The flavour is wonderful and my husband and son loved it. I’ll definitely make this again.
Jenn, I’ve tried so many recipes from the Once Upon A Chef cookbook and have never been disappointed. I can’t wait for your new cookbook to be released (I’ve pre-ordered)! Thanks for the wonderful food and for sharing your chef’s knowledge with all of us.
So glad you like the recipes — thanks for the very kind words! 🙂
Hi Jenn,
Instead of grilling, can I cook on stove using a cast iron pan?
Hi Rosy, for indoor cooking, I’d use a grill pan. Heat it over medium-high heat until hot. Add the marinated chicken breasts and cook for 2 to 3 minutes on the first side without touching, until the chicken develops nice grill marks. Using tongs, flip the chicken over and cook 2 to 3 minutes more, or until cooked through. Enjoy!
My family really loved this. I served it with grilled asparagus. Big hit.
This is a hit! Easy & delicious; would be great for hosting guests!
Great!
Delicious! This is now our Go-To-Recipe for grilled chicken. Thanks for a great recipe.
My grandkids came for supper and requested grilled chicken. I am not a great lover of chicken because it’s often tasteless and dry. I found your grilled chicken recipe. Wow! This was fantastic. The chicken was full of flavor and very moist. This will go into my “serve to guest” recipes.
Also. I served it with Crusty Artisan Bread. I had made the bread previously and froze it. I let it thaw and warmed it for 10 minutes. It was like fresh.
You have become my go to chef.
Gratefully.
Gwen King.
This recipe is truly amazing. The chicken is tender, juicy and flavorful. So easy to prepare. A keeper for sure.
I don’t like chicken. It doesn’t taste like anything. UNTIL I found your recipe!! I rave about it to my family and friends and they know it’s good because now I like chicken!!
It’s never too late to try something new. I’m 66 and just tried my hand at grilling!
I used your recipe and the chicken is awesome! Perfection on my first try😆
Thank you for the easy and delicious recipe.
The same for me! I appreciate your comments, thx!
This is truly a great recipe. I loved the tip about the zest, thank you, as I have always found that problem using the juice. I made it with thighs. Absolutely fabulous!
Amazing! And so easy!! Thank you!!
Can I substitute fresh oregano and thyme for the dried herbs? Which is better to use for this recipe? If fresh herbs are used, how much can be used?
Sure – you’ll need about 1 Tbsp. of fresh thyme and 1-1/2 tsp. fresh oregano. Hope you enjoy!
Hi Jenn,
Do you have any go to sides to serve with chicken breast?
Hi Melissa, I think this would pair nicely with this Roasted Pepper Salad with Feta, Pine Nuts and Basil. Hope you enjoy if you make it!
I’m a college student and I’m only able to cook this on the stovetop or in the oven. Which would you suggest and for how long? Thank you!
Hi Claire, for indoor cooking, I’d use a grill pan. Heat it over medium-high heat until hot. Add the marinated chicken breasts and cook for 2 to 3 minutes on the first side without touching, until the chicken develops nice grill marks. Using tongs, flip the chicken over and cook 2 to 3 minutes more, or until cooked through. Enjoy!
I made this for the family and everyone loved it. My daughter took home leftovers, and said it was just as delicious cold the next day over a salad. I am the dad, and also the griller, so I will be making this again for my Father’s day meal over a cobb salad. I followed the recipe to the “T” and it was the the best chicken breast I ever had. I marinated for 6 hours making sure to work the marinade into the chicken every hour or so. Thanks Jenn, I will look for more of your recipes!
Finally – a recipe that produces flavorful, moist, excellent grilled chicken breasts! The whole family loved them. These will definitely be on frequent rotation. Thank you!
I never knew that “grilled” actually had a flavor, until now. I made this recipe yesterday on the grill. Didn’t quite have all the ingredients, but very close substitutions worked well. It was the first time I could actually taste a “grilled” flavor and I loved it. The leftover chicken breasts in the refrigerator still retained all their flavor the next day. Didn’t need to use barbeque sauce, either. Tastes great just plain or on a toasted bun. Had a little trouble writing all this because all the ads kept popping up on the screen.
Oh my gosh! This is absolutely amazing! We served this on a salad of baby greens with crumbled feta, assorted Mediterranean olives, tomato, sliced red pepper, sliced red onion, and a splash of Italian dressing with a fresh pita bread half. Truly the best chicken I have ever made and now my go-to chicken recipe! Thank you!!
Pounding the breast before the marinating was key. Marinating time should only be 2-3 hours as lemon gets intense. Great recipe for tender flavorful chix breast. Cook time is quick also.
I agree with Ted’s comments. I only had 2 hours to marinate the chicken and it turned out delicious. Even my very dear, loyal but sharply opinionated friend liked it.
Amazing! Our guests were Guinea pigs on this recipe, and we all loved it! 😊
Great recipe! Can I ask what your beautiful countertop is? Looks like marble, but you put your lemon directly onto it.
Glad you like the chicken and thanks for your nice words about my counters! They are Calacatta Gold Marble (That’s been honed). I love the way they look but they are a bit high maintenance (and need to be refinished every few years).
Another delicious recipe of yours to add to my collection! I know supper is a hit when my youngest, who has no problem sharing her opinions on what’s for dinner, gobbled this up and said it was her new fave. I didn’t have oregano, so I substituted Italian seasoning, and I reduced the salt slightly. The lemon zest made such a huge difference, and the chicken breast scame out juicy snd flavourful. We served with corn on the BBQ (grilled sans husk), green beans and baked potatoes. This will be in our recipe rotation 😋
Rave reviews from my guests. Turned out perfectly, this is truly a keeper.
Hi Jenn, I don’t have a grill. What is the best way to cook this indoors?
Hi Kelly, I’d broil it. Set your rack about 4 inches from the heat source and broil for the same amount of time specified for the grill (flipping once). Hope that helps and that you enjoy!
Hi Jenn,
Can I broil these if I use chicken tenders? I don’t have access to a grill right now. If so, would it be for the same time as the chicken breasts? Thanks!
Hi Turtle, for indoor cooking, I’d use a grill pan. Heat it over medium-high heat until hot. Add the marinated chicken breasts and cook for 2 to 3 minutes on the first side without touching, until the chicken develops nice grill marks. Using tongs, flip the chicken over and cook 2 to 3 minutes more, or until cooked through.
You are right, this chicken is amazing and full of flavor. One question I have, you say to cook it on high heat, is there a temperature degree you recommend? Thanks!
Hi Kathy, So glad you like it! I grill it between 550-600°F.
Great recipe. Very full fresh flavor and you still taste the chicken.
I found this recipe today, and couldn’t wait to make it! Unfortunately I didn’t have a lemon around, but orange zest was amazing in this recipe. It’s a keeper 🙂
Had a craving for a chicken club. Came upon your recipe. Chicken was moist and tender, grilled in 4-5 minutes. Added fresh market applewood bacon and basil mayo. Awesome! Thank you for sharing recipes anyone can make daily. Would love to be able to make French Laundry or Per Se dinners but don’t have a sous chef, or the budget!
I made for the first time tonight! It is the best grilled chicken that I have ever made! Perfect!
Can we skip the thyme and oregano? What’s the replacement options
Hi Shivani, You could use marjoram, rosemary, and/or herbes de Provence. Hope you enjoy!
Hi Jenn, I made a double recipe and froze it right away. Do you have a recommendation for reheating after it is thawed?
Thanks, Rita
Hi Rita, I would reheat the chicken, covered with foil, in a 325°F-oven until hot.
My family and I love this chicken! Fabulous with the apricot couscous! Do you think I could use this marinade with pork tenderloin?
Sure- I think it would work nicely for pork tenderloin. 🙂
Thank you! Making sandwiches with mozzarella and tomato and wanted something different 🙂
🧡🙏 This is what I just looking for on the review board:) Always trust your recipes:)!!
Excellent!
This was so easy to put together and was very moist and delicious.
A keeper for sure!
Confession time – until this past weekend I had never grilled chicken. And to be honest, I rarely grill meat period. My husband is an outstanding grill guy, but he’s out of town for work and I really wanted a grilled chicken kale caesar salad for dinner. So off to Google to find a recipe. So happy, I clicked on this one!!! Super easy and super tasty. My only difference was to skip the plastic bag for pounding and marinating. The timing for the grill was perfect and my chicken breasts were juicy and fully cooked. Looking forward to the leftover chicken breast for a taco salad tonight.
Delicious! I was only able to marinate the chicken for an hour before grilling due to time constraints (read as last minute dinner plan 🤗) it was still so flavorful and juicy. My whole family enjoyed, even my picky toddler who typically will not eat meat. Bookmarked to use again in the future. Thank you!