To grill chicken breast perfectly juicy and flavorful, follow these expert steps:
Preparation
- Marinate the chicken: Pound chicken breasts to an even thickness (about 1/2 inch) for even cooking. Marinate for at least 30 minutes, preferably 4 hours to overnight, using your favorite marinade (olive oil, garlic, herbs, lemon juice, vinegar, etc.) to add flavor and moisture
- Preheat the grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat, around 375-450°F (190-232°C). Clean and oil the grates to prevent sticking
Grilling Process
- Place chicken on the grill: Put the marinated chicken breasts on the grill and close the lid to retain heat.
- Cook time: Grill for about 6-8 minutes on the first side without flipping repeatedly to develop good grill marks and keep juices inside
- Flip once: Turn the chicken breasts over and grill for another 6-8 minutes. Total grilling time is about 12-16 minutes depending on thickness
- Check temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption
Finishing Touches
- Rest the chicken: Remove from grill and cover loosely with foil. Let rest for 5-10 minutes to allow juices to redistribute, ensuring tender and juicy meat
Summary
- Marinate chicken breasts and pound to even thickness
- Preheat grill to medium-high (375-450°F)
- Grill 6-8 minutes per side, flipping once
- Cook until internal temp is 165°F
- Rest 5-10 minutes before serving
This method yields juicy, tender, and flavorful grilled chicken breasts ideal for meals or salads
