Description
This Garlic Parmesan Grilled Chicken recipe features tender, juicy chicken breasts marinated in a flavorful blend of garlic, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, lemon juice, and Italian herbs, then grilled to perfection. It’s a quick and delicious meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or summertime cookouts.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
Marinade
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme)
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
Optional Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a medium bowl, mix minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, extra virgin olive oil, freshly squeezed lemon juice, dried Italian herbs, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper until well combined to create a flavorful marinade.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the prepared marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is evenly coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, ideally overnight for maximum flavor infusion.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat, approximately 375°F (190°C), to ensure it is hot and ready for cooking the chicken.
- Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken breasts from the marinade and allow any excess to drip off. Place the chicken on the preheated grill and cook for about 6 to 7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C), indicating the chicken is fully cooked and safe to eat.
- Add Flavor: In the last few minutes of grilling, sprinkle additional grated Parmesan cheese over the chicken and close the grill lid. This will allow the cheese to melt, adding an extra layer of savory flavor.
- Serve: Remove the grilled chicken from the grill and transfer to serving plates. Optionally, garnish with freshly chopped parsley to add a pop of color and fresh herb flavor. Serve immediately for the best taste.
Notes
- Marinate the chicken overnight if possible for deeper flavor and juicier meat.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked safely to 165°F (75°C).
- Extra Parmesan cheese during the last grilling minutes enhances richness and texture.
- Fresh parsley garnish adds freshness but is optional.
- Can be paired with a side of grilled vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
