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Juicy Grilled Chicken

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A simple and forgiving grilled chicken recipe that stays moist and flavorful every time, perfect for quick weeknight dinners or spontaneous barbecues.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 pounds / 700 grams)
  • 4 cups (1 liter) cold water
  • 1/4 cup (60 grams) kosher salt or 3 tablespoons table salt
  • 2 tablespoons sugar (optional)
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning
  • Zest and juice of 1 lemon
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Make the brine: In a large bowl, dissolve the salt and sugar in cold water. Stir until completely dissolved. Add the chicken breasts and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
  2. Prepare the marinade: While the chicken brines, whisk together olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, oregano, lemon zest, lemon juice, and black pepper in a small bowl.
  3. Pat dry and marinate: Remove the chicken from the brine, pat dry with paper towels. Coat the chicken evenly with the marinade. Let it sit at room temperature for 10 minutes.
  4. Preheat the grill: Heat your grill to medium heat, about 350°F (175°C). Clean and oil the grates to prevent sticking.
  5. Grill the chicken: Place chicken on the grill. Cook for 6-7 minutes per side, flipping once, until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Avoid pressing down on the chicken.
  6. Rest: Remove chicken from the grill and let rest on a plate, loosely covered with foil for 5 minutes.
  7. Serve: Slice against the grain and serve with your favorite sides.

Notes

Do not skip the brine step for moisture retention. Pat chicken dry before marinating to ensure a good sear. Use indirect heat if grill has hot spots. Avoid pressing the chicken while grilling to keep juices inside. Let chicken rest after grilling to redistribute juices. Use a meat thermometer to check doneness.

Nutrition

Keywords: grilled chicken, juicy chicken, barbecue chicken, easy chicken recipe, summer grilling, chicken breasts, marinade, brine