How to Grill Perfectly Tender Chicken Breasts Every Time!
Perfectly moist grilled chicken breasts, every time! If you would like to make this in the oven, follow the directions below for prep and then bake in oven at 350 degrees for 25-35 minutes depending on the size of breasts.
Perfectly moist grilled chicken breasts, every time! If you would like to make this in the oven, follow the directions below for prep and then bake in oven at 350 degrees for 25-35 minutes depending on the size of breasts.
- Carbohydrate 0.02126578125 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Fat 0.0713821873875 g
- Fiber 0.0086953125 g
- Protein 0.00359296875 g
- Saturated Fat 0.010030312484466 g
- Serving Size 1 1 serving (356g)
- Sodium 158.124918762019 mg
- Sugar 0.01257046875 g
- Trans Fat 0.0019499999969535 g
- Calories 1 calories
Step-by-step
- Place water and salt in a large bowl and stir.
- Place chicken breast between folded parchment paper and pound with a rolling pin until uniformly thick.
- Place breasts in salt water for 30 minutes.
- Remove breasts, pat dry with paper towels.
- Brush with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
- Heat grill on high (about 425 degrees)
- Place breasts on grill, close lid and cook till nice golden grill marks are established (3-4 minutes)
- Turn over and grill till golden on the second side (3-4 minutes)
- Turn heat to med/low (about 350 degrees) close lid and cook for five more minutes until just cooked through. Don't over cook!
- Remove from grill, cut on the diagonal and serve.
My Secret to Perfectly Grilled Chicken Breasts
As a busy working mom, I don't have a lot of time for elaborate cooking projects. Weeknights are all about quick, easy, and healthy meals that the whole family will enjoy. And nothing fits that bill better than perfectly grilled chicken breasts. For years, I struggled. Sometimes they'd be dry and tough, other times they’d be undercooked. It was frustrating! But then I discovered a foolproof method, and now I make juicy, flavorful chicken breasts almost every week. I'm sharing my secret with you today!
The key to success, in my opinion, is all about preparation. It might seem like an extra step, but marinating the chicken in a simple saltwater brine is the game-changer. This brining process not only seasons the chicken beautifully but also ensures moisture retention, preventing that dreaded dryness. The longer the brine, the more tender the chicken will be. I usually do a 30-minute brine. Trust me, it’s worth it. It's amazing how much of a difference this simple step makes.
Another crucial element is grilling technique. High heat for those beautiful grill marks, followed by a lower temperature to ensure the chicken cooks through evenly. This is where the balance comes in—making sure you're not sacrificing taste for tenderness. Using a meat thermometer is the only way I am sure my chicken is cooked through. The last thing I want is to serve slightly pink chicken to my family. So, that's the last thing you should do. Always use meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature is 165°F.
Beyond the Grill: Versatile Chicken for Any Occasion
Grilled chicken is incredibly versatile. It's a fantastic base for so many different dishes. I often use it in salads, tacos, or simply serve it alongside roasted vegetables and rice. Sometimes I even slice it up and add it to pasta dishes. It is one of the meals that can be used for lunch, dinner or even as a part of a buffet. If you’re planning a family gathering, a batch of grilled chicken breasts is perfect.
But my favorite way to enjoy it? A simple, yet flavorful meal. A sprinkle of fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, or oregano) before grilling adds a burst of freshness. A squeeze of lemon juice after grilling brightens the flavor, and a side of my favorite potato salad, makes the entire dish so balanced and pleasing to the palate. It’s a light, healthy, and satisfying meal that the whole family can enjoy.
The beauty of this recipe is its simplicity. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, yet elegant enough for a weekend dinner party. The flavorful chicken is delicious on its own, but you can easily experiment with different seasonings and marinades to create your own unique variations. I encourage you to explore! Get creative in the kitchen and use whatever spices and herbs you have on hand. This simple recipe will help you have a perfect dinner each and every time you prepare it.
Tips and Tricks for Chicken Perfection
Don’t overcrowd the grill: Make sure you give your chicken breasts plenty of space to cook evenly. Overcrowding will lead to steaming rather than grilling, resulting in less flavorful and potentially dry chicken.
Use a meat thermometer: The most reliable way to ensure your chicken is cooked to perfection is with a meat thermometer. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Let the chicken rest: After grilling, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender and flavorful chicken.
Get creative with your sides: Grilled chicken pairs well with a variety of sides. Experiment with different vegetables, salads, or grains to create your perfect meal.
Plan ahead: While the actual grilling process is quick, the brining step requires some advance preparation. Plan to brine your chicken for at least 30 minutes before grilling for best results. This will give you ample time to enjoy your perfect grilled chicken without feeling rushed.
Over the years, this simple grilled chicken recipe has become a staple in my household, a testament to its ease, flavor, and versatility. I hope it becomes a favorite in yours too. Let me know how it turns out!
