Juicy Grilled Chicken

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Grilled chicken is a staple in so many kitchens, but when done right, it becomes something extraordinary. This Juicy Grilled Chicken recipe is a game-changer for your weeknight dinners or backyard barbecues. With bold spices and a simple marinade, the result is mouthwatering, smoky, and packed with flavor—plus, it’s incredibly easy to make.

What makes this grilled chicken so special? It’s the perfect balance of tangy, spicy, and savory. The marinade not only infuses flavor deep into the meat but also ensures the chicken stays tender and juicy, even after hitting those high grill temps. This recipe is versatile too—use it for salads, wraps, rice bowls, or enjoy it straight off the grill.

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What Kind of Chicken Should I Use?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this recipe, as they cook quickly and absorb marinade well. If you prefer dark meat, boneless thighs work just as beautifully and provide an extra juicy bite. Just be sure to adjust the grilling time accordingly.

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Ingredients for the Juicy Grilled Chicken

Chicken Breasts – The lean protein base that soaks up the bold marinade flavors beautifully.

Olive Oil – Helps the seasonings stick and keeps the chicken moist during grilling.

Lemon Juice – Adds brightness and slight acidity to tenderize the chicken.

Garlic (minced) – Brings a punch of flavor and pairs perfectly with smoky grilling.

Paprika – Gives the chicken a warm, smoky flavor and gorgeous color.

Chili Powder – Adds subtle heat and earthiness to the flavor profile.

Dried Oregano – For that herbal, Mediterranean note.

Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the other spices.

Brown Sugar – Balances the acidity and adds a slight caramelization on the grill.

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How To Make the Juicy Grilled Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a medium bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, paprika, chili powder, oregano, salt, pepper, and brown sugar until well combined. This mix should be vibrant in color and bold in aroma.

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Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Place your chicken breasts in a large resealable bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring every piece is fully coated. Seal and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (up to 8 hours for maximum flavor).

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Step 3: Preheat the Grill

Heat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F). Clean the grates and lightly oil them to prevent sticking.

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Step 4: Grill the Chicken

Remove the chicken from the marinade and place directly onto the hot grill. Cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, depending on thickness, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Avoid pressing down or moving it too often to keep juices sealed in.

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Step 5: Rest and Slice

Transfer the grilled chicken to a clean plate and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This keeps all the flavorful juices locked in.

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How to Serve and Store Juicy Grilled Chicken

This grilled chicken is incredibly versatile and fits into nearly any meal. Serve it sliced over a fresh garden salad, tucked into wraps with tzatziki, or alongside roasted veggies and mashed potatoes. It’s also fantastic in rice bowls, sandwiches, or as the star of your barbecue spread.

To store, let the chicken cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze it in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet or microwave to avoid drying it out.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I keep grilled chicken from drying out?

Marinating is key! The oil and lemon juice help tenderize the chicken and keep it moist. Also, avoid overcooking—use a thermometer to check for 165°F.

Can I use chicken thighs instead?

Yes! Boneless, skinless thighs work great and are naturally juicier. Just add 1-2 extra minutes per side on the grill.

What if I don’t have an outdoor grill?

No problem. Use a stovetop grill pan or even a cast-iron skillet. You’ll still get a great sear and flavor.

Can I marinate overnight?

Absolutely. For maximum flavor, marinating overnight is ideal. Just don’t go beyond 24 hours to prevent the chicken from becoming mushy.

What sides go well with grilled chicken?

Think light and fresh—grilled corn, coleslaw, pasta salad, or even garlic bread are delicious complements.

Is this recipe good for meal prep?

Yes! Grill several chicken breasts at once and portion them out for lunches or dinners throughout the week.

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Want More Chicken Ideas?

If you’re loving this Juicy Grilled Chicken, you’re going to want to try more chicken recipes that are bold, comforting, and easy to whip up. Here are some standout favorites from the blog:

• Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Savory Parmesan Linguine for a zesty, creamy pasta pairing.
• Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Ricotta Alfredo Pasta if you’re craving creamy comfort food.
• One Pot Creamy Chicken Pasta Dinner perfect for busy nights.
• Classic Chicken with Buttered Noodles that even picky eaters will love.
• Homemade El Pollo Loco Copycat when you want that fast-food flavor at home.

Save This Pin + Share Your Results

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time: Life with Nina Recipes on Pinterest.

And let me know in the comments how your chicken turned out! Did you grill it indoors or outdoors? Did you spice it up even more? I’d love to hear your twist. Ask any questions too—let’s help each other cook smarter and tastier.

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