Completely Foolproof 100% Delicious Grilled Chicken
Try this Completely Foolproof 100% Delicious Grilled Chicken recipe, or contribute your own.
Try this Completely Foolproof 100% Delicious Grilled Chicken recipe, or contribute your own.
- 8 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 16 oz. bottle newman’s own olive oil and vinegar dres
- 1 pkg. zesty italian dressing mix (powdered mix)
- 1 tâ spike seasoningâ (or less this is optional but good. you can use other all purpose seasoning mixes if you have one you like)
- coarse ground black pepper to taste (i use about 1
- Carbohydrate 0 g
- Cholesterol 136.88 mg
- Fat 2.9264 g
- Fiber 0 g
- Protein 54.4924 g
- Saturated Fat 0.7788 g
- Serving Size 1 1 serving (236g)
- Sodium 153.4 mg
- Sugar 0 g
- Trans Fat 0.7788 g
- Calories 260 calories
Step-by-step
- Trim all visible fat and membranes from chicken breasts, then cut small crosswise slits about 1/2 inch apart down the length of each chicken breast.
- Combine marinade ingredients and mix together.
- Put chicken in a single layer in a ziploc bag. Pour marinade over chicken.
- Marinate chicken in the refrigerator 6 hours or longer.
- To cook, remove chicken from the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature.
- Spray grill with non-stick spray or olive oil, and preheat to medium high.
- Have a spray bottle ready to spray flames which may shoot up when chicken is first put on the grill.
- Drain chicken, then put it on the grill at an angle to grill grates with the top side of chicken down.
- After 3-4 minutes (when you see grill marks), rotate so it’s going the opposite angle to get criss-cross marks.
- Cook 3-4 minutes more, then when you have good grill marks turn and cook until chicken is well browned and firm but not hard to the touch.
- For best results, use an Instant-Read Meat Thermometer and cook chicken until it reaches 165F/75C.
Completely Foolproof 100% Delicious Grilled Chicken: A Busy Mom's Guide to Weeknight Perfection
As a working mom, time is my most precious commodity. Dinner is often a whirlwind of juggling homework, after-school activities, and the ever-present mountain of laundry. That's why I need recipes that are both delicious and incredibly efficient. This grilled chicken recipe fits the bill perfectly. It's so simple, even on my busiest days, I can whip it up without breaking a sweat. The secret? A fantastic marinade that does most of the work for me, infusing the chicken with incredible flavor while it rests patiently in the fridge.
This recipe isn't just about convenience; it's about consistently delicious results. Forget the dry, rubbery grilled chicken of your past nightmares. This method delivers juicy, flavorful chicken every single time. The key is the crosswise slits I make in the chicken breasts – this little trick allows the marinade to penetrate deeply, ensuring even cooking and a tender, succulent texture. I learned this tip from a seasoned grill master, and trust me, it's a game-changer.
The marinade itself is incredibly versatile. I typically use Newman's Own olive oil and vinegar dressing, along with a packet of zesty Italian dressing mix and a touch of Spike seasoning. But feel free to experiment! Use your favorite herbs and spices – perhaps a smoky paprika, some garlic powder, or even a dash of your favorite hot sauce. The possibilities are endless. The important thing is to allow ample marinating time. I usually prep the chicken the night before or even that morning before heading to work, placing it in the fridge to marinate for at least six hours, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Grilling the chicken is equally straightforward. I preheat my grill to medium-high, ensuring a nice sear without burning the chicken. A quick spritz of olive oil or non-stick spray on the grill grates prevents sticking. I grill the chicken at an angle to achieve those beautiful cross-hatch grill marks, turning it once or twice to ensure even browning. An instant-read thermometer is crucial for guaranteeing the chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). This step eliminates any guesswork and ensures food safety.
This grilled chicken is incredibly versatile. It's perfect on its own, served alongside a simple salad or roasted vegetables. It's also fantastic in wraps, tacos, or as a topping for pasta. And the leftover marinade? Don’t throw it away! It’s perfect for adding extra flavor to future batches, saving you prep time next time around. So, whether you're a seasoned grill master or a kitchen novice, this recipe is sure to become a weeknight staple in your home. It's the perfect combination of ease, flavor, and consistently delicious results – everything a busy mom like me needs.
Beyond the practical aspects, this recipe is also a small act of self-care. It's a way to reclaim some control in a busy life, to create something delicious and satisfying amidst the chaos. It's a reminder that even on the most hectic days, there's still time for a simple pleasure – a delicious, healthy, and stress-free dinner.
So next time you find yourself staring blankly into the refrigerator, feeling overwhelmed by the dinner dilemma, remember this recipe. It's your secret weapon against weeknight dinner stress. The juicy, flavorful chicken will be a welcome reward for your efforts, leaving you feeling satisfied and ready to tackle whatever else the day throws your way. Happy grilling!
