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Ultimate Marinated Grilled Chicken: A Savoury Delight

Grilled chicken is a perennial favourite, loved for its versatility and delightful flavour. However, to truly elevate this dish and take it to the next level, marinating is essential. The right combination of ingredients can transform ordinary chicken into a succulent and flavoursome centrepiece for any meal. Here, we explore the ultimate marinated grilled chicken recipe that is sure to impress family and friends alike.

Why Marinate?

Marinating chicken not only infuses it with flavour but also helps to tenderise the meat, making for a juicier result once grilled. A good marinade typically consists of an acid (like lemon juice or vinegar), fat (such as olive oil), herbs, and spices. The acid helps break down the proteins in the chicken, allowing flavours to penetrate deeper.

Ingredients

For the ultimate marinated grilled chicken, you will need:

For the Marinade:

• 4 chicken breasts (skinless and boneless)
• 100ml olive oil
• Juice of 2 lemons
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• Salt to taste
• A handful of fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a medium-sized bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, honey, oregano, paprika, ground black pepper, and a pinch of salt. Whisk the ingredients together until they form a cohesive mixture.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken breasts in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece is well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish with cling film and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or ideally, overnight. This allows the flavours to penetrate the meat more thoroughly.

Step 3: Prepare the Grill

When you’re ready to grill, preheat your barbecue or grill to medium-high heat. If you’re using a gas grill, allow it to heat for about 10-15 minutes. If you’re using charcoal, ensure the coals are fully lit and ashy, creating a perfect surface for cooking the chicken.

Step 4: Grill the Chicken

Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off. This prevents flare-ups during grilling. Place the chicken on the grill, cooking for around 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 75°C (165°F). Avoid flipping the chicken too often, as this can prevent the development of those lovely grill marks.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute within the meat, ensuring maximum tenderness. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a splash of colour and serve with your choice of sides—grilled vegetables, a fresh salad, or fluffy rice.

Conclusion

The ultimate marinated grilled chicken is a simple yet impressive dish that showcases the best of summer barbecues or weeknight dinners. Its combination of bright, zesty flavours and tender, juicy meat makes it a certain crowd-pleaser. Don’t hesitate to get creative with the marinade—experimenting with different herbs and spices can lead to your own signature twist on this classic recipe. Enjoy!