Herbed Grilled Chicken Medley
Highlighted under: Heartwarming Meal Recipes
I love whipping up this Herbed Grilled Chicken Medley, especially during the summer months when I can grill outside. The combination of fresh herbs and tender chicken creates a dish bursting with flavor. It’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings with friends. The aroma of grilled chicken infuses the air with a delightful scent, and I can’t resist marinating the chicken beforehand to enhance its taste. You’ll find this recipe is a crowd-pleaser, so let’s get started!
As I experimented with different marinades, I discovered that a blend of olive oil, lemon juice, and fresh herbs really brings out the chicken's natural flavor. The secret is marinating the chicken for at least an hour; this not only infuses flavor but also keeps the meat juicy and tender on the grill. Every time I serve it, I receive rave reviews!
To elevate the dish, I often pair it with seasonal vegetables, which adds both color and nutrition to the plate. The grilling process caramelizes the chicken beautifully, giving it that perfect slightly charred texture, while the fresh herbs provide an earthy contrast. I encourage you to be generous with the herbs; the more, the better!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Infused with vibrant herb flavors that awaken your palate
- Juicy and tender chicken that’s easy to prepare
- Perfect for outdoor gatherings or quick weeknight meals
Marinating for Maximum Flavor
One essential step to achieving a deeply flavorful Herbed Grilled Chicken Medley is the marinade. The olive oil serves as a base, ensuring the chicken remains moist and juicy while infusing it with flavor. The acidity from the lemon juice not only brightens the dish but also helps to tenderize the chicken, making it more succulent. For the best results, aim to marinate for a minimum of one hour; however, four hours is ideal if time permits. This allows the herbs and garlic to permeate the meat fully.
If you are short on time and can’t marinate for long, consider cutting the chicken breasts into thinner cutlets. This allows the marinade to penetrate more quickly, delivering flavor without the extended wait. Just keep in mind that the thickness of the chicken will impact cooking time—thinner pieces will need only about 5 minutes per side on the grill.
Grilling Technique Tips
Preheating the grill to medium-high heat is crucial for achieving those beautiful grill marks and a nice sear on the chicken. You can test if your grill is ready by flicking some water droplets onto the grate; if they sizzle and evaporate almost immediately, it’s time to cook. Once you place the chicken on the grill, avoid the temptation to flip it too soon; let it cook undisturbed for those 6-7 minutes on each side. This helps to develop a flavorful crust while keeping the inside juicy.
When you remove the chicken from the grill, allow it to rest for a few minutes before cutting. Resting lets the juices redistribute throughout the meat, which helps to maintain moisture. If you've got any larger pieces, consider using a meat thermometer to check for doneness—165°F (75°C) is the magic number for fully cooked chicken.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Serving (Optional)
- Chopped fresh parsley
- Lemon wedges
Instructions
Prepare the Marinade
In a bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, thyme, garlic, salt, and pepper. This will be your marinade.
Marinate the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag and pour the marinade over them. Seal the bag and massage the marinade into the chicken, ensuring it’s well coated. Let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, preferably 4 hours.
Preheat the Grill
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you're using a grill pan, heat it on the stove over medium-high heat.
Grill the Chicken
Remove the chicken from the marinade and let the excess drip off. 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 rest for a few minutes.
Serve
Serve the grilled chicken with fresh parsley and lemon wedges on the side for an added burst of flavor.
Pro Tips
- For the best flavor, try to marinate the chicken overnight. Also, avoid pressing down on the chicken while grilling to maintain juiciness.
Substitutions and Dietary Swaps
If you're looking to customize your Herbed Grilled Chicken Medley, there are plenty of substitutions you can make. For those who prefer a lower-fat option, you could substitute plain yogurt for olive oil in the marinade. This not only reduces calories but also results in a creamy texture that adheres beautifully to the chicken, enhancing flavor while keeping it tender.
For a different flavor profile, experiment with herbs like rosemary or basil in place of oregano and thyme. Each herb brings its own unique aroma and taste to the dish, making it fun to tailor it to your preferences. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade for a bit of heat if desired.
Make-Ahead and Storage Ideas
One of the benefits of this Herbed Grilled Chicken Medley is that it’s perfect for meal prep. You can marinate the chicken a day in advance, allowing for maximum flavor development. Just store the marinated chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator until you’re ready to grill. This makes weeknight meals easier and ensures you have a homemade meal ready in no time.
If you have leftovers, they can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, consider using the stovetop on low heat or the microwave. For an even tastier option, you can dice the grilled chicken and toss it in salads, wraps, or pasta dishes for a quick and flavorful meal.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use boneless thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Boneless chicken thighs will add more flavor and tenderness to the dish.
→ How do I know when the chicken is done?
The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). Using a meat thermometer is the best way to check.
→ Can I grill vegetables alongside the chicken?
Yes, you can! Just make sure they are cut into similar sizes for even cooking.
→ What sides pair well with this dish?
A fresh salad or grilled corn are great accompaniments to this herbed chicken.
Herbed Grilled Chicken Medley
I love whipping up this Herbed Grilled Chicken Medley, especially during the summer months when I can grill outside. The combination of fresh herbs and tender chicken creates a dish bursting with flavor. It’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings with friends. The aroma of grilled chicken infuses the air with a delightful scent, and I can’t resist marinating the chicken beforehand to enhance its taste. You’ll find this recipe is a crowd-pleaser, so let’s get started!
Created by: Anna
Recipe Type: Heartwarming Meal Recipes
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Serving (Optional)
- Chopped fresh parsley
- Lemon wedges
How-To Steps
In a bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, thyme, garlic, salt, and pepper. This will be your marinade.
Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag and pour the marinade over them. Seal the bag and massage the marinade into the chicken, ensuring it’s well coated. Let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, preferably 4 hours.
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you're using a grill pan, heat it on the stove over medium-high heat.
Remove the chicken from the marinade and let the excess drip off. 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 rest for a few minutes.
Serve the grilled chicken with fresh parsley and lemon wedges on the side for an added burst of flavor.
Extra Tips
- For the best flavor, try to marinate the chicken overnight. Also, avoid pressing down on the chicken while grilling to maintain juiciness.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Total Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 125mg
- Sodium: 130mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 4g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 0g
- Protein: 31g