Easy Grilled Chicken

The sizzle of chicken hitting a hot grill paired with savory spices brings an irresistible aroma to your backyard. Easy Grilled Chicken is a simple yet delicious dish that takes just over an hour to prepare and marinate. The brining process ensures that the chicken remains juicy and flavorful after grilling.

This recipe is perfect for family dinners, weekend barbecues, or any casual get-together when you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. You can even brine the chicken a day in advance for convenient meal prep.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The brining step ensures moist, tender chicken every time.
• A perfect balance of spices gives it a delicious flavor without overwhelming the palate.
• It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner yet fancy enough for entertaining guests.
• Grill marks create a beautiful presentation that elevates the dish.

What You’ll Need

Gather these ingredients to get started:

For the Brine

• 4 cups warm water
• 1/4 cup kosher salt
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 2 cloves garlic, smashed

For Seasoning the Chicken

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)

For the Chicken

• 4 boneless chicken breasts (or 8 thighs)

Use chicken thighs for a richer flavor.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Brown sugar: Use white sugar as a substitute.
• Olive oil: Avocado oil works well too.
• Cayenne pepper: Omit for a milder taste.
• Dried oregano: Fresh oregano can be used.

How to Make It

Follow these steps for delicious grilled chicken.

Dissolve ingredients

Dissolve salt and brown sugar in warm water with smashed garlic to create the brine.

Brine the chicken

Submerge the chicken in the brine for 30 minutes to ensure the meat stays juicy.

Prepare the chicken

Pat the chicken completely dry and rub it thoroughly with the mixed spices.

Preheat the grill

Preheat the grill to medium-high heat and oil the grates well to prevent sticking.

Grill the chicken

Grill the chicken for 7 minutes without moving it to create perfect grill marks.

Flip the chicken

Flip and cook for another 6 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Rest before slicing

Rest the chicken under foil for 5 minutes so the juices redistribute before slicing.

How to Store It

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Yes, freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheat: Use the microwave or grill for 3-5 minutes until heated through.

Tips for Best Results

• Ensure the grill is well-oiled to prevent sticking.
• Use a meat thermometer for accurate doneness.
• Allow the chicken to rest; this prevents juices from spilling out when sliced.
• Experiment with different spices for varied flavors.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with grilled vegetables for a colorful plate.
• Pair with a fresh salad for a light meal.
• Enjoy with rice or couscous to soak up the juices.