Description
This Roasted Garlic Italian Grilled Chicken recipe features tender, juicy boneless chicken breasts marinated in a flavorful blend of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, lemon juice, roasted garlic, and Italian seasonings. Perfectly grilled to perfection, this dish offers a delicious, healthy, and gluten-free main course ideal for summer meals or anytime you crave a savory Italian-American classic.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Marinade
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 6 cloves roasted garlic, mashed
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Garnish
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, lemon juice, mashed roasted garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using) until well combined.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts into a large resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated. Seal or cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or for best flavor, marinate overnight.
- Preheat the Grill: When ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat to ensure a good sear and even cooking.
- Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken breasts from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off. Place them on the grill and cook for 6 to 7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the juices run clear.
- Rest and Serve: Transfer the grilled chicken to a plate and let it rest for 5 minutes to retain juices. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired, then serve warm with your favorite sides.
Notes
- Roasted garlic provides a sweeter, more mellow flavor than raw garlic. To roast garlic, bake whole cloves wrapped in foil with olive oil at 400°F for 30-40 minutes in advance.
- This grilled chicken pairs excellently with grilled vegetables, fresh salads, or pasta dishes.
- Allowing the chicken to marinate overnight enhances the depth of flavor.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is properly cooked to avoid dryness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes (plus at least 1 hour marinating time)
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Italian-American