Herb-Infused Grilled Italian Chicken
When the sun begins to set and the alluring aroma of herbs wafts through the air, there’s nothing quite as enticing as a plate of Herb-Infused Grilled Italian Chicken. This recipe is a celebration of vibrant flavors that come together effortlessly, creating a dish that’s not just a meal but an experience. The succulent chicken, cloaked in a savory herb marinade, sings with Italian charm, making it a perfect choice for family dinners, casual gatherings, or even a cozy night in. It’s simple, quick, and utterly delicious—truly a dish worth making time and time again for its nurturing essence and kid-friendly appeal.
Have You Ever Craved Something Delightfully Zesty?
Imagine sitting at a rustic outdoor table, the sun gently kissing your skin as you enjoy a tender bite of grilled chicken that bursts with fresh flavor. Doesn’t that sound heavenly? The zing of lemon intertwined with fragrant herbs awakens your taste buds and takes you back to cherished family gatherings or carefree summer nights. This Herb-Infused Grilled Italian Chicken is not just a dish; it’s a culinary hug that satisfies and comforts, no matter the occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Easy Prep: With just a handful of ingredients, this recipe offers a simple yet rewarding culinary experience.
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Healthy Choice: Packed with lean protein and fresh herbs, it’s a wholesome meal option that won’t compromise on taste.
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Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a family dinner or a summer barbecue, this dish will impress even the pickiest of eaters.
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Minimal Ingredients: You’ll only need a few staples that are likely already in your pantry.
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Quick Cooking Time: Marinate the chicken, fire up the grill, and dinner is served within the hour!
Ingredients
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4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
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1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
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2 tablespoons lemon juice
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1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1 tablespoon dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, and thyme)
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1 teaspoon salt
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1/2 teaspoon black pepper
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1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
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1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
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1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
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Lemon slices for garnish
With each ingredient, you cultivate a symphony of flavors—rich, bright, and aromatic. The extra virgin olive oil not only adds depth but also ensures that every bite remains juicy. The zesty lemon juice perfectly balances the boldness of the herbs, while the balsamic vinegar adds a delightful tang. Garlic, in all its savory glory, rounds out the marinade, infusing the chicken with unmatchable flavor. Top it all off with a sprinkle of fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon, and you have a dish that is not only visually appealing but unbelievably enticing.
Timing
This recipe offers the best of both worlds: fast and indulgent.
With only a brief marinating time of just two hours, you can swiftly whip up this flavorful dish while making it feel like a special occasion. If you plan ahead, letting the chicken soak overnight maximizes flavor and results in a truly heavenly experience. With minimal active cooking time, you’ll be on your way to enjoying this tantalizing meal in less than 30 minutes once the chicken hits the grill!
Step-by-Step
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Preparation: Begin by rinsing the chicken breasts under cold water and patting them dry with paper towels. This ensures that your chicken has a clean slate to absorb all those glorious flavors.
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Mix the Marinade: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, balsamic vinegar, garlic, dried Italian herbs, salt, and black pepper. Stir briskly to form a rich, aromatic marinade that dreams are made of.
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Marinate the Chicken: Transfer the chicken breasts to a large resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring they are well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. For best results, let the flavors meld overnight for an experience that is sure to leave a mark on your taste buds.
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Preheat the Grill: When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking—this will help you achieve those beautiful grill marks.
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Grill Time: Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off. Place the chicken breasts onto the preheated grill. Grill the chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the juices run clear.
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Resting: Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a juicy and flavorful outcome.
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Garnish and Serve: Garnish the grilled chicken with fresh basil, parsley, and rosemary. Add lemon slices for an extra burst of flavor and a pop of color.
Serve the chicken hot, and relish the deliciousness alongside a fresh salad or roasted vegetables.
Nutritional Information
This indulgent dish is a healthy option, with each serving containing approximately 230 calories. It’s the perfect blend of zest and nutrition, making it easy to justify a second helping or indulge with a lovely glass of wine.
Healthier Alternatives
Looking to lighten up the recipe? Here are some low-sugar, dairy-free swaps:
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Swap Olive Oil: Use avocado oil for a subtle twist that maintains the health benefits.
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Reduce Salt: Opt for low-sodium soy sauce to add flavor without the excess salt.
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Herb Variations: Experiment with fresh herbs instead of dried to infuse even more zest into your chicken.
Serving Suggestions
While Herb-Infused Grilled Italian Chicken is delightful on its own, consider pairing it with something sweet—or unexpected!
A refreshing side of citrusy quinoa salad can be the perfect complement to the grilled chicken. For a fun twist, serve it with a light dessert, like lemon sorbet or a classic tiramisu.
This is a dish made to shine at holiday gatherings—imagine it on a summer picnic table or for a comforting family feast!
Common Mistakes
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Overbaking: Keep an eye on the chicken; overcooked chicken can turn dry and rubbery.
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Texture Issues: Marinating too short a time can lead to flavorless chicken, while too long may cause a mushy texture.
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Messes on the Grill: Forgetting to oil the grill grates may lead to sticky chicken and make cleanup a tedious task.
Storing Tips
Leftover grilled chicken with the fragrant, herb-infused flavors can be a weeknight treasure!
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Freezing Portions: Let the chicken cool before transferring to airtight containers or resealable bags. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
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Reheating Instructions: To reheat, allow the chicken to thaw in the fridge overnight and warm it gently in the oven or a skillet over low heat to retain its moistness.
Tempting Readers to Try This Dish ASAP
Are you ready to savor the deliciousness of Herb-Infused Grilled Italian Chicken?
With its simple preparation, delectable flavors, and myriad of serving possibilities, it’s a dish you’ll want to make ASAP—your taste buds will thank you!
FAQs
1. Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to adjust the cooking time, as bone-in chicken may require a little longer on the grill.
2. Can I marinate the chicken overnight?
Yes! Marinating overnight allows for deeper flavor penetration, resulting in a more succulent dish.
3. What should I serve with the chicken?
A light salad, roasted vegetables, or even a creamy pasta dish can elevate your meal to new heights.
4. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients in this recipe are gluten-free, making it a perfect option for those with gluten sensitivities.
5. How can I make this recipe spicier?
If you enjoy a little heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the marinade for an extra kick!
With this exciting recipe at your fingertips, you’re all set for a culinary adventure that promises to delight and satisfy. Enjoy your Herb-Infused Grilled Italian Chicken today!
Print
Herb-Infused Grilled Italian Chicken
- Total Time: 135 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Description
A flavorful and easy-to-make grilled chicken dish, infused with Italian herbs and zesty lemon, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, and thyme)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- Lemon slices for garnish
Instructions
- Rinse the chicken breasts under cold water and pat them dry.
- In a medium bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, balsamic vinegar, garlic, dried herbs, salt, and pepper to create the marinade.
- Transfer chicken to a bag or dish, pour the marinade over it, seal or cover, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high and lightly oil the grates.
- Remove chicken from marinade, allow excess to drip off, and grill for 6-7 minutes per side or until cooked through.
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes, then garnish with fresh herbs and lemon slices before serving.
Notes
This dish is best served hot alongside a fresh salad or roasted vegetables. Adjust cooking time for bone-in chicken.
- Prep Time: 120 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
