There’s something about the simplicity of Italian flavors that makes this grilled chicken a go-to in my kitchen. The zesty marinade, packed with olive oil, garlic, lemon, and fresh herbs, infuses the chicken with bold, yet familiar flavors that remind me of sunny afternoons spent grilling outdoors.
Whether I’m making it for a quick weeknight dinner or serving it alongside Garlic Bread and a fresh Caprese Salad for a summer gathering, this recipe never fails to impress.
What makes this Italian Grilled Chicken special is how the herbs and garlic come alive as the chicken hits the grill, creating a perfectly charred crust with juicy, tender meat inside. It’s incredibly easy to prepare and pairs beautifully with almost any side.
This dish is as versatile as it is flavorful, perfect for any occasion, from casual family meals to laid-back entertaining.
Why I Love This Recipe?
- The fresh herbs in the marinade make the chicken vibrant and full of flavor.
- It’s quick to prepare but tastes like you put a lot of effort into it.
- The grilling process gives the chicken that smoky, irresistible taste.
Italian Grilled Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 lbs Boneless skinless chicken breasts
- ¾ cup Olive oil
- ¼ cup Red wine vinegar
- 1 tbsp Tastefully Simple® Italian Garlic Seasoning or Italian seasoning blend
- 1 tbsp Lemon juice
- ¾ tsp Salt
- ½ tsp Crushed red pepper flakes
- ½ tsp Black pepper
Instructions
- Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of parchment paper and use a heavy rolling pin or meat mallet to pound them to an even thickness.
![This image shows chicken breasts placed between two sheets of parchment paper while a heavy rolling pin or meat mallet is used to pound them to an even thickness.]](https://cdn.thefreshmancook.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Pounding-Chicken-for-Even-Thickness-200x300.webp)
- In a large bowl or zip-close bag, combine olive oil, red wine vinegar, Italian seasoning, lemon juice, salt, red pepper flakes, and black pepper. Mix well to combine.
- Add the chicken breasts to the marinade, ensuring they are evenly coated. Cover the bowl or seal the bag, then refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 12 hours for deeper flavor.
- Preheat the grill to 375°F. Brush the grill grates with oil if needed. Remove the chicken from the marinade and place it on the grill. Cook for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Discard any leftover marinade.
- Remove the chicken from the grill and cover with foil. Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve and enjoy!
Notes
- Substitute Seasoning: If you don’t have Tastefully Simple® Italian Garlic Seasoning, use a combination of garlic powder and Italian herbs.
- Marinating Time: For best results, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but no more than 12 hours to avoid a mushy texture.
Nutrition Facts:
| Nutrition | Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | 330 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 2g |
| Protein | 47g |
| Fat | 13g |
| Sodium | 409mg |
| Iron | 1mg |
What Marinade Works Best for Italian Grilled Chicken?
A marinade with olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, Italian herbs (like oregano and basil), and a bit of balsamic vinegar works best. This blend gives the chicken rich flavor and keeps it juicy.
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Chicken Breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs work great in this recipe! They tend to be juicier than breasts, but cooking time may vary slightly, so keep an eye on them.
How Long Should I Marinate the Chicken?
Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but for the best flavor, marinate it for 2-4 hours. You can even leave it overnight for maximum taste.
What’s the Best Way to Grill the Chicken?
Grill over medium heat for 6-8 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the chicken. Make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F to ensure it’s fully cooked.