Grilled Chicken Breast - Italian

This simple recipe keeps grilled chicken breast tender and juicy! With a few easy techniques and a garlicky Italian marinade, you can transform plain chicken breast into a tasty and satisfying dinner option that’s perfect for any night of the week.

Yield:
4 servings
Category:
Chicken & Other Birds
Cuisine:
Italian
Prep Time:
10 min
Cooking Time:
6 min
Total Time:
16 min

INGREDIENTS:

  • 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning (homemade or store-bought)
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 5 large garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 lemons, zested and juiced
  • 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil, plus more for oiling the grill
  • Kosher salt
  • 1/4 cup chopped Italian parsley leaves, for garnish

DIRECTIONS:

  1. Pound the chicken breasts: Place one chicken breast in a large zip-top bag. Push out any air and fasten the bag shut. Use a kitchen mallet to pound the chicken until it’s evenly flattened to about 1/2-inch. Repeat with the remaining chicken breasts, pounding one at a time.
  2. Make the marinade: In a mixing bowl, combine the Italian seasoning, paprika, red pepper flakes (if using), garlic, lemon zest and juice. Add the olive oil and whisk to combine.
  3. Marinate the chicken: Season the chicken well all over with salt. Add it to the bowl with the marinade and toss to coat. Let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes.
  4. Grill the chicken: Lightly oil the grates and preheat your gas grill or an indoor griddle to medium. Arrange the chicken in one single layer over the heated surface. Grill for about 2 to 3 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches somewhere between 155°F and 160°F.
  5. Cover and rest: Transfer to a large plate and immediately tent a large piece of foil loosely over the chicken. Allow to rest, covered, until its internal temperature reaches 165°F, about 5 minutes.
  6. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with parsley and serve.

This recipe can be found online at: lemonzest.ca/Home/Recipes/9607