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:
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with parsley and serve.
This recipe can be found online at: lemonzest.ca/Home/Recipes/9607