Juicy, Grilled Chicken Breasts: A Recipe for Perfection

Few things can please a crowd like classic grilled chicken breasts. Every home cook needs a top - notch recipe, and we're here to share one that's been tested in the kitchen.

The Basics of Grilled Chicken Breasts

The best grilled chicken breasts start with a simple marinade and end with a great cooking technique. You'll get those beautiful grill marks, too!

Prep and Cook Times

• Prep Time: 10 mins

• Cook Time: 20 mins

• Additional Time: 4 hrs 10 mins

• Total Time: 4 hrs 40 mins

• Servings: 6

How to Grill Chicken Breasts

The Ideal Marinade

Recipe developer and senior producer Nicole McLaughlin says the perfect marinade has five elements: something salty, sweet, an acid, a fat, and aromatics. Here's what you'll need:

• Olive oil: It locks in moisture.

• Dijon mustard: Adds a complex, sharp, and tangy flavor.

• Honey: Gives a subtle sweetness.

• Soy sauce: Brings umami - rich saltiness.

• Lemon juice: Brightens up the taste.

• Garlic: Fresh garlic is a must for flavor.

• Ground spices: Onion powder and ground ginger boost the flavor.

Cooking Steps

1. Trim the chicken and pound it to an even thickness.

2. Make the marinade and let the chicken soak in it for at least four hours or overnight.

3. Grill the chicken.

Recipe Tip

Pair your grilled chicken with Italian salsa verde made from fresh parsley and basil for a pop of color and flavor.

How Long to Grill

The chicken is done when it releases easily from the grill and has dark brown marks. It should take about 3 minutes per side. But use a meat thermometer! Insert it into the thickest part of the breast, and it should read 165°F.

Expert Tips from Nicole

• New to grilling? Try chicken thighs instead of breasts. Thighs have more fat and are more forgiving.

• Trim the chicken breasts to a uniform shape. You might need to pound them. Save the extra pieces for stir - fries or stock.

• Nicole doesn't use a bowl for marinating. She just throws everything into a zip - top bag.

• To prep the grill, oil an old (clean!) towel and use tongs to spread the oil on the grates.

What to Serve With Grilled Chicken Breasts

Ingredients

• 6 (6 - ounce) skinless, boneless chicken breasts

• 1/4 cup olive oil

• 3 tablespoons Dijon mustard

• 3 tablespoons honey

• 2 tablespoons soy sauce

• 2 tablespoons lemon juice

• 3 cloves garlic, finely minced

• 1 1/2 teaspoons onion powder

• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger

• 2 teaspoons kosher salt

Directions

1. Trim the excess fat from the chicken. Put plastic or parchment on each breast and pound the thick end to make it even.

2. Put the chicken in a large resealable plastic bag. Add all the marinade ingredients. Squeeze out the air, seal the bag, and massage the chicken until it's well - coated. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight, turning the bag now and then.

3. Preheat the outdoor grill to high heat (about 400°F or 200°C) and lightly oil the grate.

4. Place the chicken on the grill, sprinkle with salt. Cook for about 3 minutes until it releases easily. Reduce heat to medium (350°F or 175°C), flip the chicken, and cook for 5 - 7 more minutes until it reaches 165°F. Remove from heat and let it rest for 5 - 10 minutes before serving.

Nutrition Facts

Calories	Fat	Carbs	Protein
405	15g	11g	54g

*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 - calorie diet. Your values may vary.

Note: Nutrient info might not be available for all ingredients. If you're on a restrictive diet, consult a professional before making this recipe.