The Best Grilled Chicken Fillet

Marinated in a bold blend of balsamic vinegar, lemon juice, garlic, and fresh herbs, The Best Grilled Chicken Fillet is a dish that stands out for its juicy tenderness and vibrant Mediterranean flavors. Perfect for weeknight dinners or summer cookouts, this recipe is not only quick to prepare but also brings a delightful taste that everyone will love.

Remember it later

Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!

PIN IT NOW!

PIN THIS!PIN THIS!

Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Marinade
• For the Chicken
• How to Make The Best Grilled Chicken Fillet
• Step 1: Pound the Chicken
• Step 2: Make the Marinade
• Step 3: Marinate the Chicken
• Step 4: Preheat the Grill
• Step 5: Grill the Chicken
• Step 6: Rest the Chicken
• Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
• How to Serve The Best Grilled Chicken Fillet
• With Fresh Salads
• In Sandwiches
• Accompanied by Grains
• Topped with Salsas
• As Part of a Platter
• How to Perfect The Best Grilled Chicken Fillet
• Best Side Dishes for The Best Grilled Chicken Fillet
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing The Best Grilled Chicken Fillet
• Reheating The Best Grilled Chicken Fillet
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What makes The Best Grilled Chicken Fillet so flavorful?
• How long should I marinate my chicken?
• Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
• What sides pair well with The Best Grilled Chicken Fillet?
• How do I know when my grilled chicken is done?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time.
• Flavor-Packed Marinade: The combination of balsamic vinegar and fresh herbs gives the chicken an incredible flavor boost.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it with salads, grains, or as part of a sandwich; the possibilities are endless!
• Healthy Choice: Low in calories yet high in protein, this grilled chicken is great for health-conscious eaters.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a summer barbecue, this recipe fits right in.

Tools and Preparation

Gathering the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need to create The Best Grilled Chicken Fillet.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill or grill pan
• Meat mallet
• Resealable bag or shallow bowl
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill or grill pan: Provides direct heat for perfect grilling results.
• Meat mallet: Ensures even thickness for consistent cooking.
• Resealable bag or shallow bowl: Ideal for marinating the chicken evenly.
• Whisk: Helps mix the marinade ingredients thoroughly.

Ingredients

For the Marinade

• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
• Juice of 1 large lemon (about 1/4 cup)
• 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh basil, finely chopped
• 2 teaspoons sea salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper

For the Chicken

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breast halves
• Oil for greasing grill or grill pan

How to Make The Best Grilled Chicken Fillet

Step 1: Pound the Chicken

Place chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap or inside a zip-top bag. Use a meat mallet to pound them to an even thickness. This step helps ensure consistent cooking throughout.

Step 2: Make the Marinade

In a resealable bag or shallow bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, rosemary, basil, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Step 3: Marinate the Chicken

Add the chicken breasts to the marinade and coat them thoroughly. Seal the bag or cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours. Before grilling, let the chicken sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes.

Step 4: Preheat the Grill

Heat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat (375–450°F). Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Grill the Chicken

Remove chicken from the marinade and let excess drip off. Discard any remaining marinade. Grill each piece for about 3–4 minutes on each side until they reach an internal temperature of 155–160°F.

Step 6: Rest the Chicken

Transfer grilled chicken to a plate and let it rest for 5–10 minutes. The internal temperature will rise to 165°F during resting.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Slice your grilled chicken fillets and serve warm with your favorite sides, salads, or grains. Enjoy your flavorful creation!

How to Serve The Best Grilled Chicken Fillet

Serving grilled chicken fillet can elevate any meal, whether it’s a casual dinner or a festive gathering. Here are some delightful ways to serve your grilled chicken.

With Fresh Salads

• Mediterranean Salad: Toss together cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese for a refreshing side.
• Caesar Salad: Pair with romaine lettuce, croutons, and Caesar dressing for a classic taste.

In Sandwiches

• Grilled Chicken Sandwich: Layer sliced chicken on a toasted bun with lettuce and mayo for a quick lunch.
• Wrap It Up: Wrap grilled chicken in a tortilla with veggies and your favorite sauce for an easy meal.

Accompanied by Grains

• Quinoa Pilaf: Serve with a warm quinoa pilaf mixed with herbs and nuts for added protein.
• Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf flavored with spices makes a great base for the juicy chicken.

Topped with Salsas

• Pineapple Salsa: A sweet and tangy pineapple salsa adds an exciting flavor burst.
• Tomato Salsa: Fresh tomato salsa will bring a zesty kick to your dish.

As Part of a Platter

• Charcuterie Board: Include slices of grilled chicken on a charcuterie board with cheeses and crackers.
• Mezze Platter: Combine grilled chicken with hummus, pita bread, and assorted dips for sharing.

Remember it later

Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!

PIN IT NOW!

PIN THIS!

How to Perfect The Best Grilled Chicken Fillet

To achieve the perfect grilled chicken fillet, follow these helpful tips that guarantee juicy and flavorful results.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and quality olive oil make a significant difference in flavor.
• Pound Evenly: Ensure your chicken breasts are of uniform thickness to cook evenly.
• Don’t Over-Marinate: Limit marinating time to avoid mushiness; 30 minutes is ideal.
• Preheat the Grill Properly: Ensure your grill is hot enough before placing the chicken on it for nice grill marks.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: Check internal temperature; it should reach 165°F for safe consumption.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the chicken to rest after grilling keeps it juicy as the juices redistribute.

Best Side Dishes for The Best Grilled Chicken Fillet

Finding the right side dishes can enhance your meal experience. Here are some excellent options that pair beautifully with grilled chicken fillet.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide comfort alongside grilled chicken.
2. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients without overpowering flavors.
3. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted until tender complements the Mediterranean flavors well.
4. Coleslaw: Crunchy coleslaw offers a refreshing contrast to the warm grilled chicken.
5. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn on the cob gives sweetness that balances savory notes of the chicken.
6. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries add a healthy twist that pairs excellently with balsamic flavors.
7. Couscous Salad: Light couscous salad with lemon dressing is both fluffy and satisfying alongside the main dish.
8. Baked Beans: Sweet and smoky baked beans offer hearty satisfaction that works wonderfully with grilled meats.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

It’s easy to make mistakes when preparing The Best Grilled Chicken Fillet. Here are some common pitfalls and how to steer clear of them.

• Over-marinating: Leaving the chicken in the marinade for too long can break down its texture. Stick to marinating for 30 minutes to 4 hours for the best results.
• Skipping the resting period: Cutting into the chicken right after grilling can lead to dry meat. Always let it rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing.
• Not preheating the grill: Grilling on a cold surface can result in uneven cooking. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat before adding the chicken.
• Ignoring internal temperature: Undercooked chicken can be unsafe. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
• Using low-quality chicken: Opt for fresh, high-quality chicken breasts for better flavor and texture. Avoid frozen options if possible.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing The Best Grilled Chicken Fillet

• Wrap grilled chicken tightly in aluminum foil or freezer-safe bags.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating The Best Grilled Chicken Fillet

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F, wrap chicken in foil, and heat until warmed through (about 15-20 minutes).
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in short intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a little oil, and cook until warmed through, flipping occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes The Best Grilled Chicken Fillet so flavorful?

The marinade combines balsamic vinegar, lemon juice, garlic, and fresh herbs which infuse the chicken with bright Mediterranean flavors.

How long should I marinate my chicken?

For optimal flavor and texture, marinate your chicken breasts for at least 30 minutes and up to 4 hours.

Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

Yes, but it’s best to thaw them completely before marinating and grilling for even cooking.

What sides pair well with The Best Grilled Chicken Fillet?

This dish complements various sides like salads, roasted vegetables, or grains such as quinoa or rice.

How do I know when my grilled chicken is done?

Use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F for safe consumption.

Final Thoughts

The Best Grilled Chicken Fillet is not only juicy and tender but also versatile enough for any meal. You can customize it by adding different herbs or spices according to your taste preferences. Give it a try at your next gathering or weeknight dinner!