Get ready to elevate your grilling game with this mouthwatering recipe for Grilled Chicken on the BBQ! Perfectly marinated and grilled to juicy perfection, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends at your next cookout. With just a handful of simple ingredients and a quick prep time, you’ll be savoring tender, flavorful chicken in no time. Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or a novice looking to impress, this recipe is your ticket to a delicious meal that will have everyone asking for seconds. Dive into our step-by-step guide and discover the secret to achieving that perfect char and flavor!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to ensure even seasoning and better grill marks.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper to create a marinade.
- Place chicken breasts in a large resealable plastic bag and pour the marinade over them. Seal the bag and massage to ensure even coating. Let marinate in the refrigerator for 15-30 minutes (do not marinate longer than 30 minutes to prevent meat from becoming tough).
- Preheat the BBQ grill to medium-high heat, around 375-400°F. Clean and oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
- Remove chicken from marinade and let excess drip off. Discard remaining marinade.
- Place chicken breasts on the hot grill. Cook for 6-8 minutes on the first side, without moving, to create nice grill marks.
- Flip chicken and cook for an additional 6-8 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F when checked with a meat thermometer.
- Remove chicken from grill and let rest for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute, which helps keep the meat moist.
- Slice and serve hot, optionally garnished with fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon.
Tips
- Pat Dry for Perfection: Always pat the chicken breasts dry before marinating. This helps the marinade adhere better and results in beautiful grill marks.
- Marinate Wisely: Letting the chicken marinate for 15-30 minutes infuses it with flavor without making the meat tough. Avoid marinating for longer than 30 minutes!
- Preheat the Grill: Make sure your BBQ grill is preheated to medium-high heat (375-400°F) before placing the chicken on it. This ensures a nice sear and prevents sticking.
- Don’t Flip Too Soon: Allow the chicken to cook undisturbed for 6-8 minutes on one side before flipping. This helps develop those gorgeous grill marks.
- Check the Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; the internal temperature should reach 165°F for perfectly cooked chicken.
- Rest Before Serving: Let the grilled chicken rest for 5 minutes after taking it off the grill. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat moist and flavorful.
- Garnish for Extra Flair: Serve your grilled chicken with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon for a burst of freshness that complements the smoky flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 1g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 110mg
