Simple Grilled Chicken Breast
Perfectly seasoned and grilled chicken breast, tender and juicy on the inside with a beautiful char. This high-protein, low-carb staple is ready in under 20 minutes and is fantastic for salads, wraps, or meal prep.
For 4 servings
4 steps. 15 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Pat the chicken breasts completely dry with paper towels.
- b.If the breasts are uneven, gently pound the thicker end to ensure even cooking.
- c.In a small bowl, mix together the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper.
- d.Rub the chicken all over with olive oil, then sprinkle the spice mix evenly on all sides.
TIPPounding the chicken to an even thickness is the secret to perfectly cooked, juicy results every time. - 2
Step 2
- a.Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 400-450°F (200-230°C).
- b.Place the seasoned chicken on the hot grill grates.
- c.Grill for 6-8 minutes on the first side, until grill marks appear and it releases easily.
- d.Flip and grill for another 6-8 minutes on the other side.
- e.Check for doneness with a meat thermometer; it should read 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part.
TIPAvoid pressing down on the chicken with a spatula, as this squeezes out the juices. - 3
Step 3
- 4
Step 4
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For best results, use a meat thermometer. It's the only foolproof way to avoid dry, overcooked chicken.
- 2Don't overcrowd the grill. Cook in batches if necessary to ensure the chicken sears rather than steams.
- 3Feel free to experiment with other spices like cumin, chili powder, or Italian seasoning.
- 4This grilled chicken is perfect for meal prep. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Adapt it for your goals.
Quick
Use a pre-made all-purpose chicken seasoning or steak rub to save time on measuring individual spices.
healthyHealthy
Serve with a large portion of steamed green beans or a leafy green salad to increase the fiber and nutrient content of your meal.
kid friendlyKid friendly
Omit the smoked paprika and black pepper for a milder flavor. Slice into strips for easy handling.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Excellent Source of Lean Protein
Chicken breast is packed with high-quality protein, which is essential for building and repairing muscle tissue, supporting bone health, and maintaining a healthy metabolism.
Low in Fat and Carbs
As a lean meat, it's naturally low in fat, especially saturated fat, and contains virtually no carbohydrates, making it ideal for weight management and low-carb diets.
Rich in B Vitamins
Chicken is a good source of B vitamins like Niacin (B3) and B6, which help the body convert food into energy and are important for a healthy nervous system.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, grilled chicken breast is very healthy. It's an excellent source of lean protein, low in fat and carbohydrates, and provides essential vitamins and minerals like Niacin and Vitamin B6.