Grilled chicken offers a delightful range of quick summer dinner options, all ready in just 30 minutes. Recipes like Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken and Spicy BBQ Grilled Chicken provide vibrant flavors with minimal effort. Honey Mustard Chicken Skewers and Garlic Parmesan Grilled Chicken make for tantalizing choices, while Cilantro Lime Grilled Chicken adds a rejuvenating twist. Versatile wraps and sandwiches elevate weeknight meals. Explore these delicious recipes to discover exciting combinations that will enhance your summer dining experience.
Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons lemon zest
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking Steps:
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish and pour the marinade over the chicken. Make sure each piece is thoroughly coated.
- Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to intensify (up to 2 hours is ideal).
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and let any excess drip off.
- Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the chicken is beautifully charred.
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This helps to retain moisture.
- Serve the Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken with a side of grilled vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete summer dinner.
Variations and Tips:
- For a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes to the marinade.
- You can substitute the herbs based on your preference; basil or oregano would also work well.
- Consider pairing with a lemon-infused quinoa salad or a tzatziki sauce for dipping.
- If you want to make this dish ahead of time, you can marinate the chicken the night before and grill it the next day.
- If grilling is not an option, this recipe can also be adapted for cooking in an oven or on a stovetop grill pan.
Spicy BBQ Grilled Chicken
Spicy BBQ Grilled Chicken is a vibrant and flavorful dish perfect for summer cookouts or weeknight dinners. This dish combines juicy, grilled chicken with a zesty barbecue sauce that has a spicy kick, making it a favorite among spice lovers and barbecue enthusiasts. With a preparation time of about 15 minutes and a cooking time of 20 minutes, you can have a delicious and satisfying meal ready in just under an hour.
Serve it with sides like coleslaw or grilled vegetables for a complete summer feast.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Cooking Steps:
- Prep the Chicken: Begin by trimming any excess fat from the chicken breasts. Pat them dry with a paper towel to guarantee they sear properly on the grill.
- Marinate: In a small bowl, mix the olive oil, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Rub this spice mixture all over the chicken breasts to coat evenly.
- Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using a charcoal grill, prepare the coals until they are covered with ash.
- Grill the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts on the hot grill. Cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, turning once. After flipping the chicken, brush a generous amount of BBQ sauce onto each piece.
- Check for Doneness: The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the juices run clear. If you have a meat thermometer, it’s best to check.
- Rest and Serve: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro if desired, and serve with extra BBQ sauce on the side.
Variations & Tips:
- Heat Adjustment: If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of cayenne pepper or substitute with smoked paprika for a smoky taste without the heat.
- BBQ Sauce Alternatives: Experiment with different BBQ sauces, like honey mustard or chipotle for a different flavor profile.
- Marination: For a deeper flavor, marinate the chicken in the spice mixture and BBQ sauce for at least an hour or overnight in the refrigerator before grilling.
- Cooking Method: This recipe can also be adapted for oven-baking. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 25-30 minutes, basting with BBQ sauce halfway through.
- Sides Pairings: Pair this grilled chicken with cornbread, baked beans, or a fresh summer salad to complete your summer dinner experience.
Honey Mustard Chicken Skewers
Honey Mustard Chicken Skewers are a delicious and versatile dish ideal for summer cookouts, family gatherings, or a quick weeknight dinner. The sweet and tangy flavor combination of honey and mustard paired with juicy grilled chicken makes these skewers a crowd-pleaser for both children and adults alike.
With a preparation time of about 20 minutes and a grilling time of 10-15 minutes, you can easily whip up this dish for a delightful summer meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Wooden or metal skewers (if using wooden skewers, soak in water for 30 minutes)
Cooking Steps:
- In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the honey, Dijon mustard, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to create the marinade.
- Add the cubed chicken to the marinade, making sure each piece is well-coated. Cover and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours for best flavor).
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using wooden skewers, make sure they’ve soaked in water to prevent burning.
- Thread the marinated chicken onto the skewers, leaving a bit of space between each piece for even cooking.
- Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
- Remove skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
Variations & Tips:
- Vegetable Add-ins: Add bell peppers, onions, or zucchini to the skewers for color and added nutrition. Marinate the veggies along with the chicken for extra flavor.
- Herb Infusion: Enhance the flavor by adding fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme into the marinade.
- Spicy Twist: For a spicier version, incorporate a dash of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes into the marinade.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve the skewers with a side of grilled corn, a fresh salad, or over a bed of rice for a complete meal.
- Storage: Leftover skewers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days and can be reheated in a skillet or microwave.
Garlic Parmesan Grilled Chicken
Garlic Parmesan Grilled Chicken is a flavorful and juicy dish that combines the rich taste of garlic with the nuttiness of parmesan cheese, making it a perfect entrée for summer dinners.
This dish is ideal for families or gatherings, as it can easily be scaled up for larger groups. The preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, with an additional 15 minutes needed for marinating and around 10-15 minutes for grilling, making it a quick and satisfying meal option for busy weeknights or weekend barbecues.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to create a marinade.
2. Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over the chicken, making certain each piece is well coated.
Seal the bag or cover the dish, then refrigerate for at least 15 minutes (or up to 2 hours for better flavor).
3. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Once heated, oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
4. Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard any excess marinade. Place the chicken on the grill.
5. Grill the chicken for 6-7 minutes on one side, then flip and grill for an additional 5-7 minutes on the other side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
6. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
7. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side.
Variations and Tips:
- For added flavor, consider injecting a squeeze of fresh lemon juice into the marinade or sprinkle some red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- You can swap out Parmesan for another cheese, such as Asiago or Pecorino Romano, for a different flavor profile.
- To guarantee even cooking, pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness before marinating and grilling.
- If you don’t have a grill, this recipe can easily be adapted for the oven; bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
- Serve with a side of grilled vegetables or a fresh garden salad to make a complete meal.
Cilantro Lime Grilled Chicken
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Lime wedges (for serving)
- Additional cilantro (for garnish)
Cooking Instructions:
- In a mixing bowl, combine chopped cilantro, lime juice, minced garlic, cumin, chili powder, salt, pepper, and olive oil.
- Mix until well combined to create a marinade.
- Place the chicken breasts in a large zip-top bag or shallow dish, and pour the marinade over the chicken.
- Seal the bag or cover the dish, ensuring all chicken is well-coated.
- Marinate in the refrigerator for 1-2 hours.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. If using a grill pan, preheat it on the stove over medium heat.
- Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off.
- Discard the leftover marinade.
- Grill the chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Remove from the grill and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- Serve with lime wedges and garnish with additional cilantro.
Variations and Tips:
- For extra heat, add diced jalapeño to the marinade.
- Substitute chicken thighs for a juicier alternative.
- Marinate overnight for a deeper flavor.
- Serve with grilled vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- For a smoky flavor, try using a charcoal grill or adding a dash of smoked paprika to the marinade.
Teriyaki Grilled Chicken Thighs
Teriyaki Grilled Chicken Thighs are a flavorful and succulent dish that combines tender chicken thighs with a sweet and savory teriyaki marinade. This recipe is perfect for family gatherings or summer barbecues, as it provides a delicious option that pleases both adults and kids alike. With a preparation time of about 15 minutes and a marinating time of at least 30 minutes, the grill will do the rest of the work, yielding juicy chicken infused with rich umami flavors.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
- Sesame seeds, for garnish
- Chopped green onions, for garnish
Cooking Instructions:
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, and grated ginger until well combined.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place chicken thighs in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for maximum flavor.
- Preheat the Grill: About 10 minutes before grilling, preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Cook the Chicken: Remove chicken from the marinade and grill for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Baste the chicken with marinade while grilling for added flavor, but set aside a portion of the marinade for later.
- Thicken the Remaining Marinade: In a small saucepan, mix cornstarch and water, then stir it into the leftover marinade. Cook over medium heat until the sauce thickens, about 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly.
- Serve: Once the chicken is cooked, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Drizzle the thickened marinade over the chicken, then garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.
Variations and Tips:
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken thighs with firm tofu or plant-based chicken products for a vegetarian option. Prepare the marinade the same way.
- Add Spice: For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes or Sriracha sauce to the marinade.
- Complementary Sides: Serve with steamed rice, grilled vegetables, or a fresh cucumber salad to balance the richness of the chicken.
- Flavor Infusion: For deeper flavor, marinate overnight in the refrigerator. The longer the chicken sits in the marinade, the more flavorful it becomes, but avoid marinating for more than 24 hours to prevent the chicken from becoming too salty.
- Grilling Alternatives: If a grill is not available, you can also cook the chicken in a grill pan on the stove or bake it in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 25-30 minutes.
Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Salad
Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Salad is a vibrant and invigorating dish that perfectly blends grilled chicken with crisp vegetables and rich flavors characteristic of Mediterranean cuisine. This salad is ideal for summer dinners, providing a healthy and filling option that can serve as a solo main course or a side dish for gatherings.
With a preparation time of approximately 30 minutes, it’s a quick and easy meal that will satisfy your cravings without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 cups mixed greens (spinach, arugula, romaine)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinaigrette
Cooking Steps:
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, dried oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Brush this mixture on both sides of the chicken breasts.
- Once the grill is hot, place the chicken on the grill and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Remove from grill and let rest for a few minutes.
- While the chicken is resting, prepare the salad. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and Kalamata olives.
- Slice the grilled chicken into strips and add to the salad mixture.
- Drizzle the lemon juice and balsamic vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to combine.
- Top with crumbled feta cheese and serve immediately.
Variations and Tips:
- For added crunch, tossed in some toasted pine nuts or sunflower seeds.
- You can substitute the grilled chicken with grilled shrimp or chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
- Add roasted bell peppers or artichoke hearts for additional flavor and texture.
- To make it a meal prep option, store the salad ingredients separately and assemble when ready to eat to keep the greens fresh.
- Don’t hesitate to experiment with different dressings such as tahini or tzatziki for a unique flavor twist.
Chili Lime Grilled Chicken Tacos
Chili Lime Grilled Chicken Tacos are a vibrant and flavorful dish that captures the essence of summer. Perfect for a casual dinner with friends or a family gathering, these tacos are both easy to prepare and satisfying. The dish brings together grilled chicken marinated in a zesty chili lime mixture, served in warm tortillas with your favorite toppings.
Preparation time is approximately 30 minutes, with an additional time of 10-15 minutes for grilling.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Corn or flour tortillas
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Avocado, sliced (optional)
- Sliced radishes (optional)
- Salsa or pico de gallo (optional)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
Cooking Steps:
- In a medium bowl, combine the olive oil, lime juice, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper to create the marinade.
- Place the chicken breasts in the marinade, ensuring they are well-coated. Cover and let marinate in the refrigerator for at least 15-30 minutes.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard any leftover marinade.
- Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Remove from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into thin strips.
- Meanwhile, warm the tortillas on the grill for about 30 seconds on each side until soft and pliable.
- Assemble the tacos by placing a generous amount of grilled chicken in each tortilla, then adding your desired toppings such as fresh cilantro, avocado, sliced radishes, and salsa. Serve with lime wedges on the side.
Variations and Tips:
- For a spicier kick, add hot sauce or diced jalapeños to the marinade.
- Substitute chicken with shrimp or tofu for a different protein option.
- If grilling outdoors isn’t an option, you can use a stovetop grill pan for the chicken.
- Experiment with different toppings like shredded cabbage, cheese, or Greek yogurt for added flavor and texture.
- Consider adding a side of corn salad or black beans to create a complete meal.
Peach Glazed Grilled Chicken
Peach Glazed Grilled Chicken is a delightful summer dish that combines the smoky flavor of grilled chicken with the sweet and tangy notes of fresh peaches.
It’s perfect for outdoor barbecues, family gatherings, or a cozy dinner on the porch. This recipe serves about four people and takes approximately 30 minutes to prepare, making it a quick and flavorful option for those warm evenings.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 ripe peaches, pitted and diced
- 1/4 cup peach preserves or jam
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh thyme or rosemary (optional, for garnish)
Cooking Steps:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- In a bowl, mix the diced peaches, peach preserves, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until well combined to create the glaze.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Place the chicken on the preheated grill and cook for about 5-7 minutes per side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- During the last few minutes of grilling, brush the peach glaze generously over the chicken, allowing it to caramelize slightly.
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh thyme or rosemary if desired.
Variations and Tips:
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in half of the glaze for 30 minutes before grilling.
- You can substitute nectarines or apricots for peaches if desired, or even use a combination of stone fruits.
- Serve alongside grilled vegetables or a revitalizing summer salad to complement the flavors.
- If you don’t have a grill, this recipe can easily be adapted for oven baking at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes, brushing the glaze on during the last 5 minutes of cooking time.
- Adjust the sweetness of the glaze by adding honey or lime juice for a different twist.
Balsamic Glazed Grilled Chicken
Balsamic Glazed Grilled Chicken is a delicious and elegant dish that combines the savory flavors of grilled chicken with a tangy and sweet balsamic reduction. This dish is perfect for summer dinners, family gatherings, or a romantic night in.
It boasts a preparation time of about 15 minutes, with an additional grilling time of 20-25 minutes, making it a convenient option for a weeknight meal or entertaining guests.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil, for garnish
Cooking Steps:
- In a small saucepan, combine the balsamic vinegar, honey, olive oil, and minced garlic. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until it thickens slightly. Stir occasionally to prevent burning. Once done, remove from heat and allow to cool.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- While the grill is heating, season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Once the balsamic glaze has cooled, reserve about 1/4 of it for serving and brush the remaining glaze over the chicken, ensuring to coat it evenly.
- Place the chicken on the preheated grill and cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, basting with the balsamic glaze during grilling, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Drizzle the reserved balsamic glaze over the chicken and garnish with fresh basil before serving.
Variations and Tips:
- For an added burst of flavor, marinate the chicken in the balsamic mixture for a few hours or overnight before grilling.
- Serve the grilled chicken over a bed of mixed greens, quinoa, or alongside roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
- Add a touch of heat by incorporating red pepper flakes into the balsamic glaze.
- If you want a smokier flavor, consider using a charcoal grill instead of a gas grill.
- This dish pairs beautifully with a light white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.
Grilled Chicken With Avocado Salsa
Grilled Chicken with Avocado Salsa is a fresh and vibrant dish that combines juicy grilled chicken breasts with a zesty avocado salsa, making it perfect for summer dinners or casual gatherings.
This meal is not only packed with flavor but also rich in healthy fats and proteins, making it ideal for health-conscious eaters and those looking to enjoy a light yet satisfying meal. With a preparation time of about 30 minutes and a cooking time of around 15 minutes, you can whip up this delightful dish in under an hour.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 ripe avocados, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 red onion, finely chopped
- 1 lime, juiced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Jalapeño, diced (optional for heat)
Cooking Steps:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- In a bowl, combine olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Coat the chicken breasts evenly with this mixture.
- Place the chicken breasts on the grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- While the chicken is grilling, prepare the avocado salsa by mixing diced avocados, cherry tomatoes, red onion, lime juice, cilantro, and jalapeño (if using) in a separate bowl. Gently stir to combine and season with salt to taste.
- Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes.
- Slice the grilled chicken and serve it topped with generous portions of avocado salsa.
Variations & Tips:
- For additional flavor, marinate the chicken in your favorite marinade for at least 30 minutes before grilling.
- Substitute the chicken with shrimp or firm white fish for a seafood variation.
- Add black beans or corn to the avocado salsa for extra texture and nutrition.
- If you prefer a smoky flavor, consider grilling the chicken over a charcoal grill instead of gas.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days and can be used in salads, wraps, or sandwiches.
Italian Marinated Grilled Chicken
Italian Marinated Grilled Chicken is a flavorful dish that combines the juiciness of grilled chicken with the aromatic herbs and spices typical of Italian cuisine. This dish is perfect for summer gatherings, family dinners, or a delightful weeknight meal.
It’s quick to prepare, with a marination time of just 30 minutes and a cooking time of 15 minutes, making it an ideal option for a busy cook looking to serve up something delicious and satisfying.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Cooking Instructions:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using).
- Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (up to 4 hours for more flavor).
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off. Discard the marinade.
- Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the chicken is nicely charred.
- Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Variations and Tips:
- For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken overnight.
- You can substitute chicken thighs for chicken breasts for a juicier option.
- Serve the grilled chicken with a side of grilled vegetables, pasta salad, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
- Leftover grilled chicken can be sliced and used in sandwiches, salads or wraps.
- If you like a smoky flavor, try adding a few drops of liquid smoke to the marinade.
Cajun Grilled Chicken Breasts
Cajun Grilled Chicken Breasts are a zesty and flavorful dish perfect for summer dinners, family gatherings, or meal prep enthusiasts looking to elevate their weeknight meals. This recipe combines the bold spices of Cajun seasoning with tender grilled chicken, providing a deliciously spicy yet juicy outcome.
Prep time is about 10 minutes, with an additional 15-20 minutes for marinating and 10-12 minutes of grilling, making it a quick and rewarding option for any occasion.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional garnishes: fresh parsley, lime wedges
Cooking Instructions:
- In a small bowl, combine the Cajun seasoning, olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to create a marinade.
- Place the chicken breasts into a large resealable plastic bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring they are well-coated.
- Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 15-20 minutes to let the flavors meld.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (about 375-400°F).
- Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard any remaining marinade.
- Place the marinated chicken breasts on the grill and cook for 5-6 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the chicken is no longer pink inside.
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve with lime wedges, if desired.
Variations and Tips:
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning based on your heat preference. For a milder taste, use less seasoning or opt for a mild blend.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve the grilled chicken with a side of grilled vegetables, a fresh salad, or over a bed of rice.
- Meal Prep: Cook extra chicken breasts for meal prep; they store well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or can be frozen for longer preservation.
- Add Smokiness: For an even smokier flavor, try adding a touch of smoked paprika to the marinade.
Southwest Grilled Chicken Wraps
Southwest Grilled Chicken Wraps are a zesty and satisfying dish perfect for a quick summer dinner or a flavorful lunch. These wraps combine marinated grilled chicken with vibrant fresh vegetables and a spicy sauce, all wrapped up in a soft tortilla. They take about 30 minutes to prepare, making them ideal for families, meal preppers, or anyone looking for a delicious and healthful meal on the go.
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 1 cup lettuce, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup corn (canned or frozen)
- 1/2 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or pepper jack)
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing or chipotle sauce
Cooking Steps:
- Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
- In a small bowl, mix olive oil, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper to create a marinade.
- Rub the marinade evenly over the chicken breasts. Let them marinate for about 10 minutes.
- Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Remove from the grill and let rest for 5 minutes.
- While the chicken rests, prepare your wraps by laying out the tortillas.
- Slice the grilled chicken into thin strips and place them in the center of each tortilla.
- Top the chicken with crispy lettuce, cherry tomatoes, corn, black beans, avocado slices, and shredded cheese.
- Drizzle your choice of ranch dressing or chipotle sauce over the toppings.
- Roll up the tortillas tightly to enclose the filling and slice in half to serve.
Variations and Tips:
- For added flavor, you can marinate the chicken for a few hours or overnight in the refrigerator.
- Substitute grilled shrimp or tofu for a different protein option.
- Add jalapeños or hot sauce for an extra kick of heat.
- Customize the vegetables based on your preferences; bell peppers, red onion, or spinach work well too.
- Wrap the tortillas in foil and heat them on the grill for a few minutes if you prefer a toasted wrap.
- These wraps can also be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for an easy grab-and-go lunch option.
Caprese Grilled Chicken Sandwiches
Caprese Grilled Chicken Sandwiches are a delightful twist on a classic summer dish, combining the smoky flavor of grilled chicken with fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and fragrant basil. This sandwich is perfect for family gatherings or casual get-togethers, and can be prepared in about 30 minutes. Ideal for those looking for a light yet satisfying meal, these sandwiches bring the taste of Italy right to your backyard BBQ!
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 8 slices fresh mozzarella cheese
- 2 large tomatoes, sliced
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves
- 4 large ciabatta rolls or sandwich buns
- Balsamic glaze (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- Brush each chicken breast with olive oil and season generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Place the chicken breasts on the grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the chicken is nicely charred.
- In the last minute of grilling, place 2 slices of mozzarella cheese on top of each chicken breast and close the grill lid to melt the cheese.
- While the chicken is grilling, slice the ciabatta rolls in half and toast them lightly on the grill for added crunch.
- Assemble the sandwiches by placing a grilled chicken breast with melted mozzarella onto the bottom half of each roll. Top with slices of fresh tomato and a generous handful of basil leaves.
- Drizzle with balsamic glaze if desired, then cover with the top half of the roll.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Variations and Tips:
- For added flavor, marinate the chicken breasts in a mixture of balsamic vinegar, garlic, and Italian herbs for 30 minutes before grilling.
- Substitute the mozzarella with burrata for a creamier texture.
- If you prefer a spicy kick, add slices of fresh jalapeños or a spread of pesto to the sandwich.
- Serve alongside a fresh arugula salad or a side of sweet potato fries for a complete meal.
- If grilling isn’t an option, these sandwiches can also be cooked in a grill pan on the stovetop or baked in the oven until done.
