Grilling season is upon us, and there’s nothing quite like the sizzle of chicken on the grill. Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or just starting out, having a repertoire of easy and delicious grilled chicken recipes can make your summer cookouts a hit. From savory marinades to mouth-watering rubs, there’s a recipe here to suit every palate.
The Appeal Of Grilled Chicken
Grilled chicken stands out for its versatility and rich flavor. It can be transformed through various marinades, rubs, and cooking techniques. Grilled chicken also tends to be healthier than fried or breaded options due to less oil and fewer calories.
Versatility In Cooking
Grilled chicken suits a broad range of cuisines. For instance, you can use a Mediterranean herb marinade or a spicy Mexican rub. It pairs well with salads, grains, and vegetables, making it an adaptable protein source.
Health Benefits
Grilling generally results in fewer calories. Chicken, especially lean cuts like breast, contains high protein with lower fat content. Additionally, grilling reduces the need for added fats, enhancing the health benefits.
Quick And Easy Preparation
Grilling chicken can take as little as 10-15 minutes. Whether you’re using boneless thighs or breasts, the cooking process is relatively fast, perfect for weeknight dinners or quick lunches. Marinades prepared beforehand can also speed up the grilling process.
Enhanced Flavor Profiles
Direct heat from the grill caramelizes the chicken’s exterior, creating a depth of flavor. Smoke from the grill adds another dimension. Marinades and rubs can infuse the meat with herbs, spices, and citrus, elevating the taste.
Social And Outdoor Activity
Grilling transforms cooking into a social event. Outdoor barbecues create a communal atmosphere, where cooking is done in the open. This can enhance the overall dining experience, encouraging more time spent with family and friends.
Essential Grilling Tips
Proper grilling ensures juicy, flavorful chicken. Below are my top tips for selecting, prepping, and grilling chicken to perfection.
Selecting The Right Cut
Choosing the right cut impacts flavor and texture. Boneless, skinless breasts cook faster, while thighs retain moisture. Opt for bone-in pieces for more flavor. Always consider the recipe’s cooking time when selecting cuts.
Prepping Your Chicken
Preparation determines taste and tenderness. Marinate chicken for at least 30 minutes to infuse flavor (lemon garlic, soy ginger). For even cooking, pound breasts to uniform thickness. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels to ensure it sears properly.
Grilling Techniques
Mastering the grill enhances the final dish. Preheat the grill to medium-high (375°F-450°F). Oil the grates lightly to prevent sticking. Cook chicken over direct heat for marks; move to indirect heat to finish cooking. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F.
These steps ensure your grilled chicken is always delicious and well-cooked.
Recipe 1: Classic BBQ Grilled Chicken
Ingredients
- 4 boneless chicken breasts
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
Instructions
1. Prepare Chicken: Rinse the chicken breasts. Pat dry with a paper towel.
2. Season: Mix salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Rub this blend over the chicken.
3. Preheat Grill: Heat grill to medium-high, about 375°F (190°C).
4. Oil Grates: Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
5. Grill: Place chicken on the grill. Cook each side for 6-7 minutes, basting with BBQ sauce.
6. Check Temperature: Use a meat thermometer. Ensure internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Rest: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving for juices to redistribute.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with coleslaw, grilled vegetables, or corn on the cob. For added flavor, offer extra BBQ sauce on the side.
Recipe 2: Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 tbsp fresh rosemary (chopped)
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme (chopped)
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Mix olive oil, lemon zest and juice, minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Place chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag. Pour marinade over chicken, ensuring each piece is coated.
- Marinate in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to 2 hours.
Grilling Steps
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat (about 375°F).
- Remove chicken from marinade, letting excess drip off.
- Grill chicken for 6-7 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Let chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Serve with a side of roasted vegetables.
- Pair with a fresh green salad.
- Complement with grilled corn on the cob.
Recipe 3: Spicy Cajun Grilled Chicken
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)
- Juice of 1 lemon
Instructions
- Prepare Marinade: Start by mixing olive oil, Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, lemon juice, and cayenne pepper in a bowl.
- Marinate Chicken: Place chicken breasts in a resealable bag, pour the marinade over, and seal. Massage the bag to coat the chicken evenly. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, preferably 2 hours.
- Preheat Grill: Heat the grill to medium-high heat, around 375°F (190°C).
- Grill Chicken: Remove chicken from the marinade, letting excess drip off. Place on the grill and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Rest and Serve: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve with sides like dirty rice, grilled vegetables, or a fresh garden salad.
- Grill Marks: To get those beautiful grill marks, avoid moving the chicken too much once it’s on the grill. Flip just once halfway through cooking.
- Marinating Time: For a deeper flavor, marinate the chicken overnight. This gives the spices more time to penetrate the meat.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper based on your heat preference. Omit for a milder dish or double for extra spice.
Recipe 4: Honey Garlic Grilled Chicken
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup honey
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a bowl, mix honey, minced garlic, soy sauce, olive oil, lemon juice, black pepper, and salt until well combined.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Place the chicken breasts in a resealable bag or shallow dish, then pour the marinade over the chicken. Ensure the chicken is well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
3. Preheat the Grill:
Heat the grill to medium-high, maintaining a temperature around 375°F to 400°F.
4. Grill the Chicken:
Place the marinated chicken on the grill, discarding excess marinade. Grill each side for 6-7 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
5. Rest and Serve:
Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. This ensures the juices redistribute within the meat.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Honey Garlic Grilled Chicken with rice, grilled vegetables, or a fresh green salad. The sweetness of the honey complements the savory garlic, creating a balanced flavor profile that pairs well with lighter sides.
Recipe 5: Teriyaki Grilled Chicken
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tbsp honey
- 2 tbsp sesame oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp ginger, grated
- Sesame seeds for garnish
- Chopped green onions for garnish
Preparation
Mix soy sauce, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, honey, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger in a bowl. Marinate chicken breasts in this mixture for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for more intense flavor. Ensure each piece is fully coated.
Grilling Instructions
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (~375°F).
- Remove chicken from marinade and let excess marinade drip off.
- Place chicken breasts on the grill, closing the lid.
- Grill for 6-7 minutes per side. Grill marks should appear and chicken juices should run clear.
- Check internal temperature; it should reach 165°F.
- Once done, remove from grill and let chicken rest for 5 minutes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Teriyaki Grilled Chicken with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and chopped green onions. Pair with steamed rice and stir-fried vegetables like broccoli and bell peppers for a complete meal.
Recipe 6: Greek Yogurt Marinated Grilled Chicken
Greek Yogurt Marinated Grilled Chicken blends tangy yogurt with aromatic spices to create tender, flavorful chicken. This recipe uses simple ingredients and easy steps.
Ingredients
- 1 cup Greek yogurt (plain)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Preparation
- Combine Ingredients: Mix Greek yogurt, olive oil, garlic, lemon zest, juice, oregano, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Marinate Chicken: Place chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag. Pour the yogurt mixture over chicken. Seal bag, ensuring the chicken is well coated. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, up to 12 hours.
Grilling Instructions
- Preheat Grill: Set grill to medium-high heat, around 375°F.
- Cook Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting excess drip off. Grill chicken for 6-7 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Rest Chicken: Transfer to a plate, letting it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Greek Yogurt Marinated Grilled Chicken with a side of grilled vegetables (zucchini, bell peppers) and a fresh Greek salad (tomatoes, cucumbers, feta). Include warm pita bread and tzatziki sauce for a complete Mediterranean meal.
Recipe 7: Chipotle Lime Grilled Chicken
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, minced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice of 2 limes
- Zest of 1 lime
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation Steps
- Combine the olive oil, minced chipotle pepper, garlic, lime juice, lime zest, cumin, and smoked paprika in a bowl.
- Place the chicken breasts in a large resealable plastic bag.
- Pour the marinade over the chicken, seal the bag, and massage to coat the chicken evenly.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours for optimal flavor absorption.
Grilling Instructions
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing excess to drip off.
- Season the chicken with salt and pepper.
- Grill the chicken breasts for 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Transfer to a plate and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- Serve the Chipotle Lime Grilled Chicken with a side of cilantro-lime rice.
- Pair with grilled corn on the cob or a refreshing avocado salad.
- Top with fresh cilantro and extra lime wedges for added zest.
- For a heartier meal, serve inside tortillas with your favorite toppings for Chipotle Lime Chicken Tacos.
Recipe 8: Pineapple Jalapeño Grilled Chicken
Ingredients
To make Pineapple Jalapeño Grilled Chicken, gather these ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup pineapple juice
- 2 jalapeños, finely chopped
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
Preparation Steps
Start preparing the marinade by mixing these ingredients in a bowl: pineapple juice, chopped jalapeños, soy sauce, olive oil, honey, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine. Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag, then pour the marinade over them. Seal the bag, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
Grilling Instructions
Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing excess to drip off. Grill the chicken for 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). If desired, baste the chicken with the remaining marinade during grilling.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Pineapple Jalapeño Grilled Chicken with grilled pineapple slices and a side of cilantro-lime rice. This dish pairs well with a fresh green salad, avocado salsa, or roasted vegetables. For a fun twist, slice the grilled chicken and make Pineapple Jalapeño Chicken Tacos, topping with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime.
Recipe 9: Maple Mustard Grilled Chicken
Ingredients
For Maple Mustard Grilled Chicken, gather these simple ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
- 3 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation
Start by mixing maple syrup, Dijon mustard, olive oil, garlic, and soy sauce in a bowl. Whisk until well combined. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then place them in a resealable plastic bag.
Marination
Pour the maple mustard marinade into the bag with the chicken. Seal the bag, removing excess air, and massage the marinade into the chicken. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, turning occasionally. For optimal flavor, marinate overnight.
Grilling Instructions
Preheat the grill to medium-high heat, around 375°F to 400°F. Ensure the grill grates are clean and oiled to prevent sticking. Remove chicken from marinade, letting any excess drip off.
Cooking
Place the chicken on the grill and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy. Occasionally baste the chicken with leftover marinade during the first half of the grilling process.
Serving Suggestions
Maple Mustard Grilled Chicken pairs well with roasted vegetables, garlic mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad. Consider serving with a side of grilled asparagus or a quinoa salad. Save leftovers for a delicious sandwich or wrap the next day.
Recipe 10: Mediterranean Grilled Chicken
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 lemon, juiced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Marinate: Combine olive oil, garlic, oregano, thyme, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Mix well. Add chicken breasts to the bowl, ensuring they are evenly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- Preheat Grill: About 10 minutes before cooking, preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- Grill Chicken: Remove chicken from marinade, shaking off excess. Grill for 6-7 minutes on each side, ensuring internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Serve: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve with a side of couscous salad, grilled vegetables, or a fresh tzatziki sauce.
Perfect for a flavorful, healthy meal packed with Mediterranean zest, this recipe offers ease and deliciousness for any grilled chicken enthusiast.
Recipe 11: Balsamic Vinegar Grilled Chicken
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Preparation
Marinate the chicken to maximize flavor. Combine balsamic vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, honey, dried oregano, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Mix the ingredients well. Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish, then refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, ideally up to 2 hours.
Grilling Instructions
Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F). Oil the grill grates to prevent sticking. Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing excess marinade to drip off. Discard the remaining marinade. Place the chicken breasts on the preheated grill. Grill for 6-7 minutes on each side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Balsamic Vinegar Grilled Chicken with a side of grilled vegetables, such as asparagus or bell peppers, and a light salad. Drizzle additional balsamic glaze over the chicken for extra flavor. This dish pairs well with quinoa or a fresh tomato and cucumber salad.
Recipe 12: Coconut Curry Grilled Chicken
Ingredients
- 4 boneless chicken breasts
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 2 tbsp curry powder
- 2 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground ginger
- 2 minced garlic cloves
Instructions
- Marinate: Combine coconut milk, curry powder, lime juice, brown sugar, salt, ground ginger, and minced garlic in a bowl. Place chicken breasts in the mixture, cover, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
- Preheat Grill: Heat grill to medium-high heat, around 375-400°F.
- Grill Chicken: Remove chicken from marinade and grill for 6-7 minutes on each side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Serve: Let grilled chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving to retain juices.
Tips for Success
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Enhance the dish’s flavor by using fresh lime juice and high-quality coconut milk.
- Adjust Spice Level: Customize the heat by adding or reducing curry powder based on preference.
- Basting: Occasionally baste the chicken with leftover marinade for extra flavor.
Serving Suggestions
- Pairing: Serve with jasmine rice and a cucumber salad to balance the dish’s richness.
- Garnish: Sprinkle chopped cilantro and lime wedges on top for added freshness.
- Side Dishes: Include a side of grilled vegetables or naan bread to complete the meal.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---------------|--------------------|
| Calories | 320 |
| Protein | 38g |
| Fat | 14g |
| Carbohydrates | 8g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sugar | 6g |
| Sodium | 520mg |This Coconut Curry Grilled Chicken recipe merges island flavors with aromatic spices to create a delightful culinary experience. Use the provided tips and variations to personalize your dish and enjoy a delicious meal.
Recipe 13: Herb And Citrus Grilled Chicken
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 lemons, juiced and zested
- 2 oranges, juiced and zested
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Marinade Preparation
Combine olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, orange juice, and orange zest to create a citrus base. Add minced garlic, thyme, rosemary, and oregano, then mix well. Season with salt and pepper based on your preference. Ensure the marinade is well-mixed to infuse flavors evenly.
Chicken Marination
Place the chicken breasts in a large, resealable plastic bag. Pour marinade over the chicken, seal the bag, and remove excess air. Massage the marinade into the chicken, ensuring even coating. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours to let the chicken absorb the herb and citrus flavors, but for optimal taste, marinate overnight.
Grilling Instructions
Preheat the grill to medium-high heat, around 375°F to 400°F. Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking. Remove the chicken from the marinade and let excess drip off. Grill chicken breasts for 6-7 minutes on each side until internal temperature reaches 165°F. If you’re concerned about drying out the chicken, occasionally baste with the remaining marinade.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Herb and Citrus Grilled Chicken with a side of grilled vegetables, such as zucchini and bell peppers, for a colorful and nutritious meal. Alternatively, pair with a fresh, green salad or a quinoa salad mixed with cucumber, tomato, and feta to complement the citrus flavors.
Tips For Success
- Consistent Thickness: Pound chicken breasts to an even thickness for uniform cooking.
- Proper Resting: Let chicken rest for 5 minutes after grilling to retain juices.
- Marinade Time: Allow sufficient marinating time for best flavor absorption.
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 300 |
| Protein | 30g |
| Carbs | 8g |
| Fat | 15g |
| Fiber | 2g |
Herb and Citrus Grilled Chicken balances bright citrus with fragrant herbs, making it a perfect addition to any grilled chicken repertoire. Enjoy experimenting with this flavorful recipe.
Recipe 14: Asian Soy And Ginger Grilled Chicken
Ingredients
- Chicken thighs (4-6 boneless, skinless pieces)
- Soy sauce (1/2 cup)
- Fresh ginger (2 tablespoons, grated)
- Garlic cloves (4, minced)
- Honey (1/4 cup)
- Sesame oil (2 tablespoons)
- Rice vinegar (2 tablespoons)
- Green onions (for garnish, sliced)
- Sesame seeds (for garnish, toasted)
Marinade Preparation
Combine the soy sauce, grated ginger, minced garlic, honey, sesame oil, and rice vinegar in a bowl. Mix until the honey fully dissolves and the ingredients are well-blended.
Chicken Marination Process
Place the chicken thighs in a resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is coated evenly. Seal the bag, expel the air, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight for an optimal flavor infusion.
Grilling Instructions
Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and let excess marinade drip off. Grill the chicken for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Discard any remaining marinade used for the raw chicken.
Serving Suggestions
Plate the grilled chicken thighs and garnish with sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds. Serve alongside steamed rice and sauteed vegetables, or cucumber salad, to complete the meal.
Tips For Success
- Ensure consistent grilling by flipping the chicken only once.
- Freshly grated ginger yields a more intense flavor than powder.
- Monitor the chicken closely to avoid overcooking and dryness.
| Component | Amount Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 |
| Protein | 30g |
| Carbohydrates | 15g |
| Fats | 15g |
| Sodium | 960mg |
This Asian Soy and Ginger Grilled Chicken recipe offers a delightful blend of savory and sweet, enhanced by the zing of ginger and depth of soy.
Recipe 15: Garlic Parmesan Grilled Chicken
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation
- Mix minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, olive oil, dried oregano, and dried basil in a bowl.
- Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then coat them with the garlic Parmesan mixture.
- Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes for better flavor absorption.
Grilling Instructions
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (about 375-450°F).
- Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
- Place marinated chicken breasts on the grill and cook for 6-8 minutes per side. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Remove from grill and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Garlic Parmesan Grilled Chicken with a side of steamed vegetables or a mixed green salad. For extra flavor, sprinkle additional grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley.
Tips for Success
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for a richer taste.
- Marinate the chicken overnight if possible for deeper flavors.
- Avoid overcooking to keep the chicken moist and tender.
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 300 |
| Protein | 38g |
| Carbohydrates | 2g |
| Fat | 15g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sugar | 0g |
This Garlic Parmesan Grilled Chicken recipe adds a flavorful twist to your grilling repertoire.
Recipe 16: Sweet And Spicy Mango Grilled Chicken
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 large mango, peeled and diced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Preparation
I mix diced mango, olive oil, soy sauce, lime juice, honey, cayenne pepper, and garlic powder in a bowl. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, ensuring an even coating. Pour the mango mixture into a ziplock bag, add the chicken, and marinate for at least 2 hours in the refrigerator.
Grilling Instructions
Heat the grill to medium-high. Remove the chicken from the marinade, ensuring excess marinade drips off. Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Serve immediately, garnishing with fresh cilantro.
Serving Suggestions
Pair the Sweet and Spicy Mango Grilled Chicken with grilled vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini. Serve over a bed of rice or quinoa for a complete meal. Offering a side of fresh mango salsa enhances the dish’s flavors.
Tips for Success
Use ripe mangoes for maximum flavor. Adjust cayenne pepper based on your spice tolerance. Allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes after grilling to retain juices. If grilling thick chicken breasts, consider pounding them to even thickness for uniform cooking.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 250
Protein: 30g
Carbs: 15g
Fat: 8g
The Sweet and Spicy Mango Grilled Chicken provides a balanced meal, combining proteins and fresh, tropical flavors.
Recipe 17: Chili Lime Grilled Chicken
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Juice of 2 limes
- Zest of 1 lime
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Preparation Steps
- Mix olive oil, lime juice, zest, minced garlic, chili powder, paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper in a bowl.
- Place the chicken breasts in a zip-lock bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken.
- Seal the bag, pressing out as much air as possible. Massage the marinade into the chicken for even coating.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. For enhanced flavor, marinate up to 2 hours.
Grilling Instructions
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- Remove the chicken from the marinade. Pat it dry with paper towels.
- Grill the chicken for 6-7 minutes per side. Ensure internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Chili Lime Grilled Chicken with a side of grilled vegetables or a fresh salad. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro for added flavor and color. Consider pairing with a lime wedge for an additional citrusy touch.
Tips for Success
- For even cooking, use chicken breasts of similar thickness.
- Avoid over-marinating to prevent the chicken from becoming mushy.
- Use a meat thermometer for accurate doneness.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 240 |
| Protein | 28g |
| Fat | 12g |
| Carbohydrates | 3g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sodium | 220mg |
Chili Lime Grilled Chicken offers a tangy and spicy flavor profile, perfect for summer grilling sessions. The combination of lime and chili creates a zesty, refreshing taste.
Conclusion
Exploring these 17 easy grilled chicken recipes has truly broadened my culinary horizons. Each recipe offers a unique twist on a classic favorite, making it easy to find something that suits any taste or occasion. From the tangy Chili Lime Grilled Chicken to the savory Garlic Parmesan Grilled Chicken, there’s no shortage of delicious options to choose from.
Whether you’re a seasoned griller or just starting out, these recipes are designed to be simple yet flavorful. The detailed instructions and tips ensure that you’ll achieve perfect results every time. So fire up the grill and get ready to impress your family and friends with these mouthwatering grilled chicken dishes. Happy grilling!