Easy Grilled Chicken

The aroma of grilled chicken fills the air, evoking memories of summer barbecues and shared laughter. This Easy Grilled Chicken recipe not only captures that essence but also takes just under an hour from start to finish. The secret to its success lies in a quick brine that keeps the meat succulent and flavorful.

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings when you crave a satisfying meal without the fuss. You can prepare the brine in advance, making the chicken ready for grilling whenever you are.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The brine ensures juicy chicken that’s bursting with flavor.
• Quick grilling time means dinner is ready in less than 30 minutes.
• The spice blend creates a perfect balance of savory and slightly sweet.
• Great for meal prep, as leftovers taste delicious the next day.

What You’ll Need

Gather the following ingredients to get started on this delightful dish.

For the Brine

• 4 cups warm water
• 1/4 cup kosher salt
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 2 cloves garlic, smashed

For the Chicken

• 4 boneless chicken breasts
• 2 tbsp olive oil, for coating chicken

For Seasoning

• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper, optional

Use skinless thighs as an alternative to breasts.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Honey for brown sugar
• Garlic powder for fresh garlic
• Chicken thighs for chicken breasts
• Olive oil for any cooking oil

How to Make It

Here’s how you can make this delicious grilled chicken in just a few simple steps.

1. Prepare the brine.

Dissolve salt and brown sugar in warm water with smashed garlic to create the brine.

2. Brine the chicken.

Submerge the chicken in the brine for 30 minutes to ensure the meat stays juicy.

3. Dry and season.

Pat the chicken completely dry and rub it thoroughly with the mixed spices.

4. Preheat the grill.

Preheat the grill to medium-high heat and oil the grates well to prevent sticking.

5. Grill the chicken.

Grill the chicken for 7 minutes without moving it to create perfect grill marks.

6. Flip and finish cooking.

Flip and cook for 6 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

7. Rest before serving.

Rest the chicken under foil for 5 minutes so the juices redistribute before slicing.

How to Store It

Fridge: store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: yes, for up to 3 months.
Reheat: microwave for 1-2 minutes or grill until warmed through.

Tips for Best Results

• Make sure your grill is preheated for even cooking.
• Allow the chicken to rest for better flavor retention.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy in doneness.
• Experiment with additional spices for a personalized touch.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a fresh salad for a light meal.
• Serve with grilled vegetables for a colorful plate.
• Enjoy with your favorite barbecue sauce for extra flavor.