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Garlic Parmesan Grilled Chicken

A flavorful dish of juicy chicken marinated in garlic, Parmesan cheese, and Italian herbs, then grilled to perfection for a crispy exterior and moist interior.
Prep Time 40 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Grilling, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian-American
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

Main ingredients
  • 4 pieces Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs Opt for high-quality organic chicken if possible for improved flavor.
  • 1/4 cup olive oil A good extra virgin olive oil adds richness; look for cold-pressed options.
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced Fresh garlic is non-negotiable here; the flavor potency is a game-changer.
  • 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese Use freshly grated Parmesan for a creamier texture.
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice Freshly squeezed juice is ideal – it brightens the dish!
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning A blend of herbs adds complexity, but feel free to use fresh herbs like basil or oregano.
  • Salt and pepper, to taste Simple but essential for flavor balance.
  • Optional: Chopped fresh parsley and extra Parmesan for garnish Because who doesn’t love some extra flair?

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a medium bowl (or zip-top bag), whisk together the olive oil, minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until well combined.
  2. Add the chicken to the marinade, making sure each piece is evenly coated. Seal the bag or cover the bowl, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor.
  3. About 10 minutes before grilling, preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 375°F – 400°F) and lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
Cooking
  1. Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing excess marinade to drip off. Place the chicken on the grill. Cook for 5–7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the chicken is beautifully charred and crispy.
  2. Once done, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing to retain juices.
  3. Garnish with chopped parsley and extra grated Parmesan if desired. Serve warm alongside your favorite sides.

Notes

Patience pays off in juicy chicken! Avoid moving the chicken too much while grilling to achieve perfect grill marks.