Grilled Garlic Herb Chicken

Grilled Garlic Herb Chicken is a flavorful and juicy main dish, marinated in a blend of garlic, fresh herbs, and olive oil, then grilled to perfection. It’s a simple yet delicious recipe that delivers bold, aromatic flavor with minimal effort—perfect for weeknight dinners, backyard barbecues, or healthy meal prep.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is incredibly versatile, requiring only a few ingredients to create complex, savory flavor. The garlic and herb marinade not only enhances the taste but also ensures the chicken remains moist and tender. It pairs well with salads, vegetables, rice, or pasta, making it a go-to recipe for balanced and satisfying meals.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• Garlic (minced)
• Fresh herbs (parsley, thyme, rosemary, basil – finely chopped)
• Olive oil
• Lemon juice
• Salt
• Ground black pepper
• Optional: crushed red pepper flakes or Dijon mustard

directions

1. In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, chopped herbs, salt, pepper, and optional ingredients.
2. Place chicken in a large resealable bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over it.
3. Seal or cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, ideally 2–4 hours for best flavor.
4. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
5. Remove chicken from marinade and let excess drip off.
6. Grill chicken for 5–6 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Remove from grill and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Servings and timing

Serves 4. Preparation time is 10 minutes, marinating time is 2–4 hours, and grilling time is approximately 10–12 minutes.

Variations

• Citrus Herb: Use orange or lime juice in the marinade for a citrus twist.
• Spicy Garlic: Add chili paste or hot sauce for extra heat.
• Herb Yogurt Marinade: Substitute half the olive oil with Greek yogurt for a tangy, creamy marinade.
• Baked Version: Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 25–30 minutes if grilling is not an option.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave. This chicken also freezes well—store marinated raw chicken or cooked pieces for up to 2 months.

FAQs

What herbs work best for this recipe?

Parsley, thyme, rosemary, oregano, and basil all pair well with garlic and chicken.

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

Yes, use 1 teaspoon of dried herbs for every tablespoon of fresh herbs.

How long should I marinate the chicken?

A minimum of 30 minutes, but 2–4 hours is ideal. Avoid marinating longer than 12 hours.

Can I use bone-in chicken?

Yes, just adjust the grilling time—bone-in pieces may take 10–15 minutes longer to cook through.

Can I cook this on a stovetop?

Yes, a grill pan or cast iron skillet works well on medium-high heat.

How do I know when the chicken is done?

Use a meat thermometer—the internal temperature should be 165°F (74°C).

What should I serve with this?

Grilled vegetables, rice, couscous, or a crisp salad make great accompaniments.

Can I use lemon zest for more flavor?

Absolutely. Add zest to the marinade for a more intense citrus profile.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, it stores and reheats well, making it excellent for meal prepping.

Can I freeze the marinated chicken?

Yes, place it in a freezer-safe bag and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before grilling.

Conclusion

Grilled Garlic Herb Chicken is a classic, go-to dish that’s both simple and satisfying. With its bright, fresh flavor and juicy texture, it’s a reliable option for casual dinners or outdoor grilling sessions. Make it once, and it will likely become a staple in your recipe rotation.

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