Ingredients
1 ¾ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
6 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
4 large garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon dried thyme
½ teaspoon dried oregano
1 ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 ½ teaspoons lemon zest
Optional: 2 to 3 tablespoons lemon juice, lime juice, or balsamic vinegar
Optional dried herbs/spices: rosemary, paprika, Italian seasoning
Oil for grilling (such as vegetable oil)
Optional toppings: fresh chopped herbs, crumbled cheese, sauces like honey mustard or Greek yogurt pesto
Instructions
1. Pound each chicken breast to an even ½-inch thickness to ensure even cooking and prevent dryness.
2. In a large zip-top bag or bowl, mix olive oil, garlic, thyme, oregano, salt, pepper, and lemon zest. Add optional acid and additional spices if using.
3. Add chicken to the marinade, seal the bag or cover bowl, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, ideally overnight. For quick marination, leave at room temperature for at least 30 minutes.
4. Preheat grill to high heat (around 475°F). Clean and oil grill grates.
5. Place chicken on the hot grill, cover, and cook for 2-6 minutes per side, baste occasionally with reserved marinade if available.
6. Check chicken doneness using a thermometer; remove from grill when the internal temperature reaches 155-160°F.
7. Allow chicken to rest covered for 3-10 minutes before slicing or serving.
Last Step:
Please leave a rating and comment letting us know how you liked this recipe! This helps our business to thrive and continue providing free, high-quality recipes for you.Notes
🍋 Pounding the chicken ensures it cooks evenly and stays juicy.
🔥 Clean and oil grill grates thoroughly to avoid sticking and achieve nice sear marks.
🕒 Be sure to rest the chicken after grilling to let juices redistribute and retain moisture.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Marinating Time: 4-12 hours
- Cook Time: 8-13 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten-Free Option
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 950mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 42g
- Cholesterol: 125mg