Too hot to turn on the oven tonight? This grilled chicken fillet is exactly what you need for a fresh, easy meal.
It is 6pm and you need dinner fast. This recipe delivers juicy, tender chicken in under 30 minutes. You will love how simple it is to prepare.
Why This Recipe Is a Winner
This dish is a total lifesaver for busy weeknights. It uses pantry staples like olive oil and dried herbs. The citrus marinade keeps the meat incredibly moist on the grill.
It is a great choice for a healthy reset. You get plenty of protein without any heavy sauces. Your whole family will actually enjoy eating something nutritious.
Simple Cooking Steps
Making this chicken is completely stress-free. You simply whisk the marinade and let the chicken soak up the flavor. The grill does the rest of the work.
Even if you are new to grilling, you can do this. The short marinating time means you can start right before dinner. It is foolproof and always comes out golden and delicious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These simple ingredients create a bright, Mediterranean-inspired flavor. Fresh lemon makes all the difference here.
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breast fillets (approx. 150g each)
- 30 ml extra virgin olive oil
- 15 ml fresh lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 5 g dried oregano
- 5 g kosher salt
- 2 g black pepper, freshly ground
Step-by-Step Directions
- Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
- Place the chicken fillets in a shallow dish and coat thoroughly with the marinade.
- Allow chicken to marinate for 15 minutes at room temperature or up to 2 hours in the fridge.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat, reaching about 200°C (400°F).
- Clean and lightly oil the grill grates so the chicken does not stick.
- Place chicken fillets on the grill and cook for 5 to 6 minutes per side.
- Use a meat thermometer to confirm the internal temperature has reached 74°C (165°F).
- Remove the fillets and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Serve these fillets warm with a side of grilled vegetables. They pair perfectly with a crisp cucumber salad or fluffy quinoa. It feels like a restaurant meal at home.
For a kid-approved option, slice the chicken into strips. Serve it with a side of sweet potato fries. It is a meal everyone can agree on.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They will stay fresh for up to four days. This chicken is excellent cold on top of lunch salads.
To reheat, use a microwave at medium power. You can also warm it in a skillet with a splash of water. This keeps the meat from becoming tough or dry.
Recipe Tips for Best Results
- Don’t skip the resting time to keep the juices inside.
- Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking the chicken.
- Pat the chicken dry before marinating for better flavor absorption.
- Oil your grill grates right before adding the meat.
- Double the batch to have easy protein for lunches all week.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick.
- Swap dried oregano for fresh thyme if you have it.
Easy Flavor Ideas
- Swap lemon juice for lime juice for a zesty twist.
- Use smoked paprika instead of oregano for a BBQ feel.
- Add a tablespoon of honey for a sweet and savory glaze.
- Try this with boneless chicken thighs for extra juiciness.
Common Questions
Can I make this on a stove?
Yes, you can use a grill pan or a heavy skillet. Cook over medium-high heat for the same amount of time. You will still get those beautiful golden marks.
How long can I marinate the chicken?
15 minutes is enough for great flavor. Do not go over 2 hours, or the lemon juice might change the texture. It is the perfect quick prep meal.
Will my kids like this?
Most kids love the simple, savory flavors of garlic and lemon. It is mild enough for picky eaters but flavorful for adults. It is a total crowd-pleaser.
I hope this easy grilled chicken becomes a staple in your home. It makes healthy eating feel so simple and delicious. Happy grilling!
— Lidia
Grilled Chicken Fillet
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breast fillets (approx. 150g each)
- 30 ml extra virgin olive oil
- 15 ml fresh lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic , minced
- 5 g dried oregano
- 5 g kosher salt
- 2 g black pepper, freshly ground
Instructions
- Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper in a small bowl to create the marinade.
- Place the chicken fillets in a shallow dish or resealable bag and coat thoroughly with the marinade mixture.
- Allow chicken to marinate for 15 minutes at room temperature or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat, reaching a temperature of approximately 200°C (400°F).
- Clean and lightly oil the grill grates to ensure the chicken does not stick.
- Place chicken fillets on the grill and cook for 5 to 6 minutes per side.
- Use a meat thermometer to confirm the internal temperature has reached 74°C (165°F).
- Remove the fillets from the grill and let them rest for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute before serving.
