This Easy Italian Grilled Chicken is quick to make and bursting with flavor. Marinated in simple ingredients like olive oil, garlic, and Italian herbs, it’s a crowd-pleaser!
You’ll love how juicy and tasty this chicken turns out. I often serve it with a side of veggies or over a salad for a fresh meal—so good and easy to prepare!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are best for this recipe. I often choose thighs for extra juiciness. But if you prefer white meat, stick with the breasts; just remember to not overcook!
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil gives great flavor and helps the chicken stay moist. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use avocado oil or grapeseed oil.
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice brightens the flavor of the chicken. If you don’t have fresh lemons, bottled juice works, but fresh is always best. You can add more for an extra zesty kick!
Herbs: The dried herbs are what give this chicken its Italian flair! If you have fresh herbs on hand, like basil or oregano, feel free to substitute them—just use more since they’re less concentrated.
How Do I Grill Chicken Perfectly Without Drying It Out?
Grilling chicken can be tricky if you want it juicy and tender. Marinating the chicken helps a lot, as it breaks down proteins and adds flavor. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Marinate for at least 30-60 minutes, but not more than 4 hours to prevent it from becoming mushy.
- Preheat the grill so it’s hot. This helps sear the chicken for a nice crust.
- Cook the chicken on medium-high heat, about 6-7 minutes per side. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
- Let the chicken rest afterward for about 5 minutes before slicing. This keeps the juices inside.
Easy Italian Grilled Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 lemon, sliced for garnish and grilling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prep and requires at least 30 minutes for marinating, but the longer, the better! Plan for a total of about 40 minutes to 1 hour of total time, plus grilling time of about 15 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Making the Marinade:
Start by whisking together the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, dried thyme, onion powder, salt, and black pepper in a bowl. This mixture will add amazing flavor to the chicken!
2. Marinating the Chicken:
Put the chicken breasts into a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it’s all coated well. Seal the bag or cover the dish, and place it in the fridge. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes; if you have time, letting it sit for 1-2 hours will really enhance the flavors!
3. Grilling Time:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Take the chicken out of the marinade and toss the leftover marinade away. Place the chicken on the grill, making sure to add slices of lemon alongside the chicken or on top for extra flavor.
4. Checking for Doneness:
Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side. It’s important to check that the chicken is cooked thoroughly; it should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and have beautiful grill marks.
5. Resting and Serving:
Once done, carefully remove the chicken and lemon slices from the grill. Let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes—this is crucial as it keeps the juices locked in! Serve the grilled chicken topped with the grilled lemon slices for an extra burst of flavor. Enjoy your delicious meal!
FAQ: Easy Italian Grilled Chicken
Can I Use Thighs Instead of Breasts for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will yield a juicier result. Just adjust the grilling time slightly, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through compared to breasts. Aim for 7-8 minutes per side, and check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Lemon Juice?
No problem! You can substitute fresh lemon juice with bottled lemon juice; however, fresh is always preferred for a brighter flavor. You might want to use a little less bottled juice, around 1.5 tablespoons, as it’s often more concentrated.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the microwave or on the grill for a few minutes until warmed through. Adding a splash of broth can help retain moisture.
Can I Marinate the Chicken Overnight?
Yes, marinating overnight is a great idea! Just be cautious with the acidity from the lemon juice, which can begin to break down the chicken too much. If you’re marinating for more than 4 hours, reduce the amount of lemon juice slightly to avoid mushy chicken.
