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Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
Start by making the marinade. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together olive oil, minced garlic, parmesan cheese, fresh parsley, oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper. This mixture will not only season the chicken but also help keep it moist and tender while grilling.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts into a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over the chicken. Seal the bag (or cover the dish), ensuring the chicken is fully coated with the marinade. For the best flavor, let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to 1 hour. If you’re short on time, even 15 minutes will add great flavor, but the longer you marinate, the juicier and more flavorful the chicken will be.
Step 3: Preheat the Grill
While the chicken is marinating, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you’re using a charcoal grill, let the coals burn down to a steady heat. If you’re using a gas grill, preheat it to around 400°F (200°C).
Step 4: Grill the Chicken
Once your grill is heated, remove the chicken from the marinade and place it on the grill. Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the chicken. The key is to cook the chicken through without overcooking it. You’ll know it’s done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
As the chicken cooks, you can brush a little extra marinade over it for added flavor. Just be sure to set aside some of the marinade before it touches the raw chicken to avoid contamination.
Step 5: Let the Chicken Rest
Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, ensuring each bite is juicy and tender.
Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!
Serve your Garlic Parmesan Grilled Chicken with your favorite side dishes. This chicken pairs well with grilled vegetables, salads, rice, or even a side of crispy potato wedges. For a fun twist, garnish the chicken with additional chopped parsley and a few lemon slices to add a burst of color and fresh flavor.
Tips for Perfect Garlic Parmesan Grilled Chicken
- Use Fresh Parmesan: For the best flavor and texture, use freshly grated parmesan cheese rather than the pre-shredded kind. Freshly grated cheese will melt better and create a richer flavor.
- Pound the Chicken: If your chicken breasts are uneven in thickness, you can pound them with a meat mallet before marinating. This ensures the chicken cooks evenly and stays juicy.
- Don’t Overcook: The key to juicy grilled chicken is to avoid overcooking. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature and remove the chicken once it hits 165°F (75°C).
- Grill Marks: For beautiful grill marks, avoid moving the chicken around too much once it’s on the grill. Let it sit for a few minutes on each side without moving it, which will give you those perfect charred lines.
- Customize the Flavor: Feel free to adjust the herbs and spices to your taste. You can add more garlic for a bolder flavor or toss in a bit of red pepper flakes if you like a touch of heat.
Side Dish Ideas for Garlic Parmesan Grilled Chicken
This flavorful chicken goes wonderfully with a variety of sides. Here are a few ideas to round out your meal:
- Grilled Vegetables: Try grilling asparagus, zucchini, bell peppers, or corn on the cob alongside the chicken for a full summer meal.
- Caesar Salad: For a classic pairing, serve the chicken with a crisp Caesar salad, topped with crunchy croutons and more parmesan cheese.
- Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes with a sprinkle of garlic and herbs complement the flavors of the chicken beautifully.
- Pasta: A simple side of garlic butter pasta or a refreshing pasta salad would work perfectly with the rich, cheesy chicken.
- Couscous or Rice: A side of fluffy couscous or lemon-infused rice can soak up the delicious juices from the chicken.
Why This Garlic Parmesan Grilled Chicken Will Become a Favorite
With its rich garlic and parmesan flavors, this grilled chicken recipe offers a fresh, zesty twist on a classic dish. The marinade not only infuses the chicken with flavor but also helps keep it moist and juicy as it grills, ensuring the perfect bite every time. Whether you’re grilling for a family dinner or preparing for a weekend BBQ, this dish is quick to prepare, easy to cook, and sure to impress.
So, the next time you’re craving grilled chicken that’s bursting with flavor and perfect for the grill, give this Garlic Parmesan Grilled Chicken recipe a try. It’s a savory, tender treat that’s sure to become a go-to meal in your grilling rotation.
Enjoy your meal, and happy grilling!
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