Easy Grilled Chicken

The aroma of succulent grilled chicken wafting through the air evokes memories of joyful summer gatherings and barbecues with loved ones. In just about an hour, you can whip up this Easy Grilled Chicken that promises juicy, flavorful meat thanks to a simple brining process. This recipe works wonders because it ensures the chicken retains its moisture, resulting in a tender and savory dish.

This recipe is perfect for backyard cookouts, family dinners, or meal prep for the week ahead. You can brine the chicken a few hours in advance for optimal flavor, and any leftovers can be stored for quick lunches or midweek dinners.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The brining method keeps the chicken exceptionally juicy and flavorful.
• Grilling creates beautiful char marks and a smoky taste.
• Simple ingredients come together for a quick weeknight meal.
• This dish pairs well with various sides, making it versatile.

What You’ll Need

Here’s what you will need to create the perfect grilled chicken.

For the Brine

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

For the Chicken

• 4 boneless chicken breasts (or 8 thighs)
• 2 tbsp olive oil (coats chicken)

For Seasoning

• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp paprika (adds color)
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano (herbal note)
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional heat)

Brine helps the chicken stay juicy.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Use chicken thighs for a richer flavor.
• Honey can replace brown sugar.
• Use sea salt instead of kosher salt.
• Fresh herbs can substitute dried oregano.

How to Make It

Prepare delicious grilled chicken with these simple steps.

1. Dissolve the brine ingredients

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

2. Submerge and brine the chicken

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

3. Dry and season the chicken

Pat the chicken completely dry and rub it thoroughly with the mixed spices to enhance flavor and create a delicious crust.

4. Preheat the grill

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

5. Grill chicken undisturbed

Grill the chicken for 7 minutes without moving it to create perfect grill marks and lock in flavor.

6. Flip and finish cooking

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

7. 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, for up to 3 months.
Reheat: microwave on medium for 2-3 minutes.

Tips for Best Results

• Make sure the brine is completely cooled before adding the chicken.
• Don’t skip the resting time to ensure juicy chicken.
• Use a meat thermometer for precise cooking.
• Experiment with different herbs and spices in the seasoning.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a fresh garden salad for a light meal.
• Pair with grilled vegetables for a wholesome side.
• Enjoy with rice or quinoa for a filling dinner.