Dinner

Easy Grilled Chicken Recipe

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Craving a juicy, flavor-packed chicken dinner that’s quick, healthy, and bursting with bold flavor? This Easy Grilled Chicken Recipe is my go-to whenever I want something simple yet incredibly delicious. Made with a tangy balsamic marinade, fresh lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and aromatic herbs, this grilled chicken turns out tender, juicy, and perfectly caramelized every single time.

Whether you're firing up the grill for a summer BBQ or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe guarantees mouthwatering results with minimal effort.

Ingredients List

Marinade Ingredients

  • ¼ cup balsamic vinegar

  • 3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard

  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar, packed

  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

  • ½ teaspoon dried thyme

  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano

  • ¼ teaspoon dried rosemary

  • Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Chicken

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley leaves (for garnish)

Required Kitchen Tools

When preparing grilled chicken, having the right tools ensures even cooking and perfect grill marks. Here’s what I use:

  1. Grill or Grill Pan: An outdoor gas or charcoal grill works best, but a stovetop grill pan also delivers excellent results.

  2. Mixing Bowl: For whisking together the flavorful balsamic marinade.

  3. Whisk: Helps fully combine the marinade ingredients for even flavor distribution.

  4. Tongs: Essential for safely flipping the chicken without piercing it.

  5. Meat Thermometer: The key to perfectly cooked chicken. Internal temperature should reach 165°F.

  6. Zip-Top Bag or Shallow Dish: For marinating the chicken evenly.

Having these tools ready makes the entire process smooth and stress-free.

Marinade Preparation

Creating the perfect marinade is the secret to juicy grilled chicken packed with flavor.

Mixing the Marinade

In a medium mixing bowl, I whisk together:

  • Balsamic vinegar

  • Lemon juice

  • Olive oil

  • Dijon mustard

  • Brown sugar

  • Worcestershire sauce

  • Minced garlic

  • Dried thyme, oregano, and rosemary

  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper

I whisk everything until fully combined and slightly emulsified. The balance of tangy, sweet, and savory flavors is what makes this grilled chicken marinade truly irresistible.

Marinating the Chicken

How Long to Marinate Chicken

  1. Place the chicken breasts in a large zip-top bag or shallow dish.

  2. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is fully coated.

  3. Seal or cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, but for best results, I recommend marinating for 2–4 hours.

Avoid marinating longer than 8 hours, as the acidity from the vinegar and lemon juice can start breaking down the texture of the chicken.

Grilling the Chicken

Grilling is where all that flavor transforms into smoky, caramelized perfection.

Grill Temperature and Cooking Time

  1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400–450°F).

  2. Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.

  3. Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the excess marinade.

  4. Grill the chicken for 5–7 minutes per side, depending on thickness.

  5. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

I always let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes after grilling. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat moist and tender.

Finishing Touches

After resting, I sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the grilled chicken for a pop of color and freshness. The slight sweetness from the balsamic glaze combined with the herb garnish makes it look as good as it tastes.

Serving Suggestions

This easy grilled chicken pairs beautifully with:

  • Garlic mashed potatoes

  • Grilled vegetables

  • Fresh garden salad

  • Steamed rice or quinoa

  • Pasta salad

It’s also perfect sliced over salads or tucked into sandwiches and wraps.

Storage Instructions

How to Store Grilled Chicken

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

  • Reheat gently in the microwave or in a covered skillet over low heat to prevent drying out.

Freezing Instructions

  • Allow the chicken to cool completely.

  • Store in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.

  • Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Pro Tips for Perfect Grilled Chicken

  • Pound thicker chicken breasts to even thickness for uniform cooking.

  • Don’t flip the chicken too often — let it sear properly.

  • Always rest the chicken before slicing.

  • Use a thermometer — guessing leads to dry chicken.

Conclusion

This Easy Grilled Chicken Recipe is one of my absolute favorites because it delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. The balsamic marinade creates a perfect balance of tangy, sweet, and savory notes while keeping the chicken incredibly juicy and tender.

Whether you're planning a backyard BBQ, weekly meal prep, or a quick family dinner, this recipe is guaranteed to become a staple in your kitchen. Fire up that grill and enjoy every juicy bite!

 

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