Juicy Grilled Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts Recipe That Wows

Juicy grilled boneless skinless chicken breasts reimagine ordinary meals into culinary adventures with their incredible potential for flavor and texture.

These lean protein powerhouses offer endless seasoning possibilities that tantalize taste buds and satisfy hunger.

Light yet filling, they represent a healthier alternative to heavier meat options without compromising on taste.

Marinades and spice blends can elevate these tender cuts from simple to spectacular in mere minutes.

Quick cooking methods ensure maximum moisture retention while creating those desirable caramelized exterior marks that signal deliciousness.

Strategic preparation techniques unlock remarkable depth and complexity in each succulent bite.

Summer cookouts or weeknight dinners become extraordinary opportunities to showcase culinary creativity.

Sidekicks That Match This Grilled Greatness

• Pair with Zesty Citrus Salad: Complement the grilled chicken's smoky flavor with a bright, tangy salad featuring mixed greens, orange segments, and a light lemon vinaigrette.
• Match with Crisp Sauvignon Blanc: The wine's herbaceous and citrusy notes will cut through the chicken's richness, creating a refreshing and balanced dining experience.
• Serve alongside Garlic Roasted Vegetables: Enhance the grilled chicken with a medley of roasted zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus seasoned with garlic and herbs for added depth.
• Finish with Creamy Tzatziki Sauce: Cool down the grilled chicken's warmth with a smooth, tangy Greek yogurt sauce packed with cucumber, dill, and a hint of garlic.

Flavor Twists You Haven’t Tried Yet

• Mediterranean Marvel: Marinate chicken in lemon juice, garlic, oregano, and olive oil before grilling for a zesty Greek-inspired flavor profile.
• Spicy Southwest Sensation: Rub chicken with chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika, then top with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime after grilling.
• Herb Garden Glory: Coat chicken with a mixture of fresh chopped rosemary, thyme, and parsley, creating an aromatic herb-infused grilled chicken.
• Honey Mustard Magic: Brush chicken with a glaze of honey, Dijon mustard, and a touch of apple cider vinegar during the last few minutes of grilling for a sweet and tangy finish.

What Makes Grilled Boneless Chicken So Juicy

• Lock in Moisture: Brining transforms ordinary chicken breasts into incredibly juicy, tender meat by allowing salt to break down proteins and retain more water during cooking.
• Quick Weeknight Winner: This recipe delivers restaurant-quality grilled chicken in under 45 minutes, perfect for busy families needing nutritious, delicious meals without complicated techniques.
• Protein Powerhouse: Packed with 48 grams of lean protein per serving, this dish supports muscle building, weight management, and provides essential nutrients without excess calories or carbohydrates.
• Foolproof Grilling Method: The two-zone grilling technique ensures perfectly cooked chicken with beautiful grill marks, preventing dryness and guaranteeing a delicious result every single time.

Simple Ingredients for Big Grill Flavor

• Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts: Lean protein that needs careful cooking to stay juicy and tender. Fresh, high-quality breasts work best for grilling.

• Salt: Helps chicken retain moisture and enhances flavor. Kosher or sea salt recommended for better absorption.
• Water: Creates saltwater solution for chicken hydration and seasoning.

• Olive Oil: Prevents chicken from sticking and helps create beautiful golden exterior. Extra virgin olive oil provides best flavor.
• Paprika: Adds mild smoky flavor and beautiful reddish-brown color to chicken surface. Sweet or smoked paprika works well.

Grilling Tips for Tender, Moist Chicken

Step 1: Prep the Chicken Bath

Grab a spacious bowl and mix salt into water until completely dissolved. Submerge chicken breasts in the salty liquid and chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to lock in moisture and flavor.

Step 2: Set Up Your Grilling Zone

• One side blazing hot
• One side cooler and calmer

If cooking indoors, heat a grill pan to medium-high heat.

Step 3: Dress the Chicken

Remove chicken from brine and pat completely dry with paper towels. Massage chicken with olive oil and sprinkle paprika evenly across the surface for a zesty kick.

Step 4: Sizzle and Cook

Lightly oil grill grates to prevent sticking. Place chicken on the hot zone and let it develop beautiful grill marks. After marks appear, flip the chicken and slide it to the cooler side. Cover the grill to ensure even cooking. Remove chicken when internal temperature hits 155°F, which guarantees juicy, perfectly cooked meat.

Tricks for Avoiding Dryness Every Time

• Nail the Brine: Soak chicken in saltwater for exactly 30 minutes to lock in moisture and enhance natural flavors, preventing dry meat.
• Master the Heat Zones: Create temperature variations on your grill by setting up direct and indirect heat areas for perfectly controlled cooking.
• Pat Chicken Dry: Use paper towels to remove excess moisture before oiling, ensuring better seasoning adherence and crispy exterior.
• Check Temperature Precisely: Use a reliable meat thermometer to confirm chicken reaches 155°F, then let it rest to reach the safe 165°F.
• Season Simply: Paprika adds subtle warmth and beautiful color, but experiment with other mild spices like garlic powder or dried herbs for variety.

Best Storage Hacks for Grilled Chicken Leftovers

• Refrigerate Leftovers: Transfer cooled chicken to an airtight container or sealed plastic bag within 2 hours of cooking. Store in the refrigerator for 3-4 days to maintain freshness and prevent bacterial growth.
• Freezer Storage: Wrap individual chicken breasts tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Label the bag with the date to track storage time.
• Reheating Method: Warm refrigerated chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes. Drizzle a tablespoon of chicken broth or water over the meat to prevent drying. Check internal temperature reaches 165°F before serving to ensure food safety and retain juicy texture.

Grilled Juicy Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts Recipe

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4.8 from 33 reviews

• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Grilled juicy boneless skinless chicken breasts bring Mediterranean flavors to your summer table with succulent spices and perfect charred edges. Marinated in olive oil, herbs, and lemon, these chicken breasts promise a delightful meal that you’ll savor with each tender bite.

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Ingredients

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Main Protein:

• 1.5 to 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts

Brine Ingredients:

• 4 cups cool water
• 33 grams salt (¼ cup Diamond Crystal kosher salt, 2 tablespoons Morton kosher salt, or 1.5 tablespoons fine sea salt)

Seasoning and Oil:

• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (plus more for the grill)
• 1.5 teaspoons paprika

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Instructions

1. Submerge boneless skinless chicken breasts in a saltwater solution (kosher salt per water) to enhance moisture and tenderness. Refrigerate for 30-45 minutes to allow flavor penetration.
2. Prepare a dual-zone grilling environment with high-temperature direct heat and lower-temperature indirect heat zones. For indoor cooking, heat a cast-iron grill pan to medium-high temperature (375-400°F/190-204°C).
3. Extract chicken from brining liquid and thoroughly pat each breast dry using paper towels. Generously brush chicken with extra virgin olive oil to promote even browning and prevent sticking.
4. Evenly sprinkle each chicken breast with sweet paprika, creating a light, flavorful coating that will develop a subtle caramelized exterior during grilling.
5. Lightly lubricate grill grates or grill pan surface with cooking spray or additional olive oil to prevent potential adhesion of chicken.
6. Position chicken breasts on the hottest section of the grill, allowing undisturbed cooking for 3-4 minutes until distinctive crosshatch grill marks emerge.
7. Carefully rotate chicken 45 degrees to create professional-looking diagonal grill marks, then flip to opposite side. Immediately transfer to cooler indirect heat zone.
8. Cover grill or pan, allowing chicken to complete cooking until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C), which ensures safe consumption while maintaining juiciness.
9. Remove chicken from heat and let rest for 5-7 minutes, allowing internal juices to redistribute and ensuring maximum tenderness before serving.

Notes

• Brining transforms ordinary chicken breasts into succulent, flavor-packed morsels by allowing salt water to penetrate deeply.
• Marinating with olive oil creates a protective barrier that locks in moisture and prevents sticking during high-heat cooking.
• Indirect grilling technique ensures even cooking, preventing dry exteriors while achieving perfectly tender interiors.
• Checking internal temperature with a meat thermometer guarantees safe consumption and optimal juiciness.
• Resting meat after grilling allows juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender and flavorful chicken.

• Prep Time: 35 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 310 kcal
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 580mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Carbohydrates: 0g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 48g
• Cholesterol: 100mg