Description
Grilled chicken breasts marinated in a blend of spices, served with a vibrant green herb sauce made from fresh parsley, cilantro, and mint. Ideal for summer barbecues or a healthy weeknight dinner!
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for marinating)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup fresh parsley leaves
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup olive oil (for the sauce)
- Juice of 1 lemon
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to create a marinade. Add the chicken breasts, ensuring they are well coated. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. For charcoal, ensure coals are hot and ashy. For gas, heat for about 10-15 minutes.
- Clean the grill grates with a grill brush and lightly oil them with a paper towel dipped in vegetable oil to prevent sticking.
- In a food processor, combine parsley, cilantro, mint, minced garlic, red wine vinegar, and red pepper flakes (if using). Pulse until finely chopped.
- With the processor running, slowly drizzle in 1/2 cup of olive oil and the juice of one lemon. Blend until smooth. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. For a thinner sauce, add more olive oil or a splash of water.
- Transfer the green sauce to a bowl and set aside. This can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- Place the marinated chicken on the grill. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on one side without moving.
- After 6-7 minutes, flip the chicken and grill for another 6-7 minutes. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
- After resting, slice the grilled chicken into strips or serve whole.
- Drizzle the green sauce over the chicken or serve it on the side for dipping.
- Garnish with additional fresh herbs or lemon wedges. Serve with your favorite sides like grilled vegetables, salad, or rice.
Notes
- For juicier chicken, choose breasts of even thickness or pound them to an even thickness before marinating.
- Avoid overcrowding the grill to ensure proper grilling rather than steaming.
- A meat thermometer is recommended for perfect doneness.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes