This Grilled Rosemary Chicken Breasts recipe combines the robust flavors of fresh rosemary and garlic with a tangy touch of Dijon mustard and lemon juice. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend barbecue, this dish is both easy to prepare and bursting with flavor.
Ingredients:
Marinade:
- 8 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons minced fresh rosemary
- 1 ½ tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 ½ tablespoons lemon juice
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ⅛ teaspoon kosher salt
Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breast halves
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
- Combine Ingredients:
- In a small bowl, mix together the minced garlic, olive oil, minced rosemary, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, ground black pepper, and kosher salt.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
- Marinate:
- Place the chicken breast halves 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 and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for more intense flavor.
Step 3: Preheat the Grill
- Prepare the Grill:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using a charcoal grill, set up a two-zone fire for direct and indirect cooking.
Step 4: Grill the Chicken
- Grill Chicken:
- Remove the chicken from the marinade and shake off any excess. Discard the remaining marinade.
- Place the chicken breasts on the grill. Grill each side for about 6-8 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of the chicken breasts and the heat of your grill.
- If using a gas grill, you can close the lid while grilling to ensure even cooking.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
- Rest the Chicken:
- Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the chicken moist and flavorful.
- Serve:
- Slice the chicken breasts and serve them hot. They pair well with a variety of sides such as grilled vegetables, salads, or roasted potatoes.
Cook’s Notes:
- Marinating Time: Marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes allows the flavors to penetrate the meat, but marinating for a few hours or even overnight will yield the best results.
- Grill Marks: For perfect grill marks, resist the urge to move the chicken too frequently. Let it cook undisturbed on each side until grill marks form.
- Indoor Cooking: If you don’t have access to a grill, you can cook the chicken in a grill pan on the stovetop or bake it in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Variations:
Low-Carb Version:
- This recipe is naturally low-carb. Serve with a side of grilled or roasted low-carb vegetables such as zucchini, asparagus, or broccoli.
Keto Version:
- Ensure all ingredients used are keto-friendly. Pair with a creamy cauliflower mash or a keto-friendly salad.
Herb Variations:
- Substitute fresh rosemary with other herbs such as thyme, oregano, or basil for a different flavor profile.
- Add a teaspoon of dried Italian seasoning to the marinade for an additional layer of flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use dried rosemary instead of fresh? A: Yes, you can substitute dried rosemary for fresh. Use 2 teaspoons of dried rosemary instead of 2 tablespoons of fresh.
Q: Can I bake the chicken instead of grilling? A: Yes, you can bake the chicken at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Q: How long should I marinate the chicken? A: For best results, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes. For a more intense flavor, marinate for 4 hours or overnight.
Q: Can I freeze the marinated chicken? A: Yes, you can freeze the chicken in the marinade. Place the marinated chicken in a freezer-safe bag and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before grilling.
Q: What sides go well with Grilled Rosemary Chicken? A: Grilled vegetables, a fresh salad, roasted potatoes, or a grain like quinoa or rice make great accompaniments.
Grilled Rosemary Chicken Breasts are a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of fresh rosemary, garlic, and tangy Dijon mustard creates a marinade that infuses the chicken with a delightful taste. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or preparing a quick dinner, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Enjoy it with your favorite sides and relish the delicious flavors!
