Firing up the grill is one of life's simple pleasures, especially when it leads to a dish as delightful as this artisan grilled chicken! This recipe isn't just about throwing chicken on the grill; it’s about creating a flavor-packed, healthy meal that's incredibly easy to make.
Why This Grilled Chicken Will Be Your New Favorite:
- Simplicity at its Finest: With only 5 minutes of prep and 15 minutes of grilling, you'll be enjoying a fantastic meal in no time.
- Health Conscious: Made with boneless, skinless chicken breast and a water-based marinade, it’s a guilt-free way to enjoy a high-protein meal. No extra fats here!
- Exploding with Flavor: The combination of seasonings and the grilling process creates a smoky, tangy taste that elevates the humble chicken breast from boring to brilliant.
- Convenience is Key: The marinade can be prepared ahead of time, making it perfect for busy weeknights. And guess what? You probably already have all the ingredients in your pantry!
What You'll Need:
- A resealable bag (or bowl) for marinating.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts.
- Water, the base of our light marinade.
- Garlic powder, for that punchy flavor.
- Onion powder, for a subtle savory note.
- Dried thyme, to bring a hint of earthiness.
- A touch of sugar, to balance the flavors.
- Salt, because, well, it’s essential.
- Honey, for a touch of sweetness and a beautiful glaze.
- Fresh lemon juice, the secret to the tangy zing.
- A grill—charcoal is preferred, but any grill will do. A broiler works too if the weather isn’t cooperating!
How to Get Started:
This recipe is so easy, it’s practically foolproof!
1. The Magic of the Marinade:
You can either mix the marinade in a bowl or directly in a resealable bag. Here are the measurements:
* ½ cup water
* 2 teaspoons garlic powder
* 1 teaspoon onion powder
* 1 teaspoon dried thyme
* 1 teaspoon sugar
* ½ tablespoon salt
* 2 tablespoons honey
* 6 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
Mix all the marinade ingredients, then add the chicken and make sure it’s all coated. Let it chill in the fridge for at least two hours. The longer it marinates, the more flavorful it becomes!
2. Grill to Perfection:
Get your grill fired up to medium-high heat. Place the chicken breasts on the hot grill and discard the marinade. Cook for about 7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving – this helps keep it juicy!
Side Dish Ideas:
This grilled chicken is so versatile, it can be paired with almost anything!
Here are a few ideas to get you started:
- Baked or fried potatoes
- Greek salad
- Pasta salad
- Mac and Cheese
- Couscous with roasted zucchini
- Roasted cauliflower
- Steamed or roasted green beans
- Rice pilaf
- Grilled corn on the cob
Drink Pairings:
Pair your perfectly grilled chicken with a light wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, a dry rosé, or a refreshing wheat beer. For non-alcoholic options, try lemonade, sparkling water, iced herbal tea, or cucumber water.
Ready to Elevate Your Meal Planning?
Are you looking to create more delicious, healthy meals effortlessly? Download Menuistia, the app that makes custom recipe creation and menu planning a breeze. With Menuistia, you can take the guesswork out of mealtime and focus on enjoying great food.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a different type of grill? A: Absolutely! While charcoal is great for flavor, you can use a gas grill or even broil the chicken in your oven.
Q: How long can I marinate the chicken? A: Try not to go over 12 hours, as the lemon juice can break down the chicken and change its texture.
Q: Can I substitute bottled lemon juice? A: Yes, bottled lemon juice works perfectly well if you don’t have fresh lemons on hand.
Q: Can I use fresh herbs? A: Of course! For fresh garlic, use about 2 cloves, minced. For fresh thyme, use 1 tablespoon instead of 1 teaspoon of the dried version.
Enjoy this simple, delicious, and healthy recipe. Happy grilling!