grilled chicken recipes

Craving a taste of summer? Dive into the world of grilled chicken, a timeless favorite that brings together smoky flavors, juicy meat, and a burst of fresh herbs.

With a creamy, zesty marinade and a blend of aromatic spices, every bite is packed with flavor.

Choose your favorite cut—thighs, breasts, or drumsticks—and get ready to fire up the grill for a meal that’s both simple and unforgettable.

Ingredients List

Creating mouthwatering grilled chicken starts with a well-balanced marinade and quality chicken. Here’s what you’ll need for this recipe:

Marinade Ingredients

• 2 1/2 to 3 lbs chicken meat (thighs, breasts, or drumsticks)
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1 1/2 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 3 to 4 garlic cloves, grated or pressed
• 2 tsp sea salt
• Ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 tsp dried garlic powder
• 1 tsp dried onion powder
• 1 tsp coriander
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 2 to 3 tbsp fresh, chopped dill

Required Kitchen Tools

Having the right tools on hand makes grilling chicken a breeze. Here are the essentials you’ll need:

1. Mixing Bowl or Glass Casserole Tray: For preparing and marinating the chicken.
2. Whisk: To blend the marinade ingredients smoothly.
3. Tongs: For safely turning the chicken on the grill.
4. Outdoor Grill: Gas or charcoal, preheated for best results.
5. Meat Thermometer: To ensure the chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature.
6. Plastic Wrap: For covering the marinating chicken.
7. Paper Towels: For patting the chicken dry before marinating.
8. Tray or Platter: For resting and serving the grilled chicken.

Grilling the Chicken

Grilling transforms marinated chicken into a smoky, charred, and irresistibly juicy main dish. Follow these steps for perfectly cooked chicken every time.

Prepping the Grill

1. Preheat the Grill:
   Heat your outdoor grill to 500°F (260°C) for at least 10 to 15 minutes. Hot grates help prevent sticking and create beautiful grill marks.
2. Oil the Grates (Optional):
   For extra insurance against sticking, lightly oil the grill grates using a paper towel dipped in oil and held with tongs.

Grilling Instructions

1. Arrange the Chicken:
   Place the marinated chicken pieces onto the hot grill grates, leaving 1 to 2 inches of space between each piece for even cooking.
2. Grill with the Lid Closed:
   Close the grill lid and cook the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Cooking times will vary depending on the cut and thickness:
   • Boneless thighs: 16–18 minutes total
   • Breasts: 12–15 minutes total
   • Drumsticks: 20–25 minutes total
3. Turn for Even Cooking:
   Flip the chicken every 4 to 6 minutes to ensure even charring and cooking on all sides.
4. Indirect Heat for Thick Pieces:
   If the chicken is nicely charred but not fully cooked, move it to the top rack or to a cooler part of the grill to finish cooking over indirect heat.
5. Rest the Chicken:
   Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a tray or platter. Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing or serving. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the meat moist and flavorful.

Serving and Storage

A beautifully grilled chicken deserves the right finishing touches and proper storage to keep it fresh and delicious. Here’s how to serve and store your masterpiece.

Serving Suggestions and Garnishes

When it comes to serving grilled chicken, a few thoughtful touches can elevate your meal:

• Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle extra chopped dill, parsley, or cilantro over the chicken for a burst of color and flavor.
• Lemon Wedges: Serve with lemon wedges on the side for a bright, zesty finish.
• Side Dishes: Pair with classic sides like grilled vegetables, potato salad, coleslaw, or a crisp green salad.
• Sauces: Offer a side of tzatziki, garlic aioli, or your favorite barbecue sauce for dipping.

For a beautiful presentation, arrange the chicken pieces on a large platter, garnish with fresh herbs, and add a few lemon slices for a pop of color.

Storage Instructions

Proper storage ensures your grilled chicken stays juicy and safe to eat:

• Refrigeration:
  Store leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Let the chicken cool to room temperature before sealing and storing.
• Freezing:
  For longer storage, wrap the chicken tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then place in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating:
  To reheat, place the chicken in a covered dish and warm in a 300°F (150°C) oven until heated through, or microwave gently to avoid drying out.

Conclusion

Mastering grilled chicken opens up a world of delicious possibilities, from weeknight dinners to festive gatherings. With a creamy, herbaceous marinade and a few simple grilling techniques, you can achieve juicy, flavorful chicken every time.

Don’t be afraid to experiment with different herbs, spices, or cuts of chicken to make this recipe your own.

With proper storage, you can enjoy leftovers in salads, wraps, or sandwiches for days to come. So fire up the grill, gather your favorite sides, and savor the unbeatable taste of homemade grilled chicken!