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 brings juicy tenderness and Mediterranean flair to your table. This recipe is perfect for various occasions, from casual weeknight dinners to summer cookouts. It’s quick, healthy, and full of flavor—just what you need to impress your family and friends.

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
• For Garnish
• 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
• Fresh Salads
• Grain Bowls
• Grilled Vegetables
• Dips and Sauces
• 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?
• Can I use bone-in chicken instead of boneless?
• How do I know when my grilled chicken is done?
• What sides go well with The Best Grilled Chicken Fillet?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With minimal prep time and straightforward steps, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time.
• Packed with Flavor: The marinade infuses the chicken with zesty and aromatic notes that elevate the dish.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a main course or slice it up for salads and sandwiches.
• Healthy Choice: Lean chicken breast paired with fresh ingredients makes for a nutritious meal.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Ideal for making ahead of time; it stores well for future meals.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into cooking, make sure you have all the necessary tools at hand. These will simplify the process and ensure success.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Meat mallet
• Resealable bag or shallow bowl
• Whisk
• Grill or grill pan
• Tongs
• Instant-read thermometer

Importance of Each Tool

• Meat mallet: Ensures even thickness by tenderizing the chicken, leading to consistent cooking.
• Resealable bag: Perfect for marinating chicken as it locks in flavors without making a mess.
• Instant-read thermometer: Guarantees food safety by checking that chicken reaches the correct internal temperature.

Ingredients

This recipe features simple yet flavorful ingredients that combine beautifully to create The Best Grilled Chicken Fillet.

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

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

PIN THIS!

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 for consistent cooking.

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 chicken to the marinade and coat 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 20 minutes.

Step 4: Preheat the Grill

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

Step 5: Grill the Chicken

Remove chicken from the marinade and let excess drip off. Discard any remaining marinade. Grill chicken for about 3–4 minutes per side or until its internal temperature reaches 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 continue to rise to a safe 165°F during this resting period.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

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

How to Serve The Best Grilled Chicken Fillet

Serving grilled chicken fillet can be both fun and creative. With its juicy flavor and tender texture, this dish pairs well with a variety of sides and sauces. Here are some delicious serving suggestions that will enhance your meal experience.

Fresh Salads

• Mediterranean Salad: Combine cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese for a refreshing side.
• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce with creamy dressing complements the grilled chicken beautifully.

Grain Bowls

• Quinoa Bowl: Serve the chicken over quinoa with black beans and corn for a nutritious twist.
• Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf flavored with herbs makes a hearty pairing.

Grilled Vegetables

• Zucchini and Bell Peppers: Grill seasonal veggies alongside the chicken for added flavor and color.
• Asparagus: Toss asparagus on the grill for a quick, healthy side.

Dips and Sauces

• Tzatziki Sauce: This yogurt-based sauce adds a cool contrast to the warm chicken.
• Chimichurri Sauce: A vibrant herb sauce that brings an extra zing to the grilled chicken.

How to Perfect The Best Grilled Chicken Fillet

Perfecting your grilled chicken fillet requires attention to detail. Follow these tips to ensure your dish turns out juicy and flavorful every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and spices enhance the marinade’s flavor profile significantly.
• Pound Evenly: Ensuring uniform thickness allows for even cooking, preventing dryness.
• Marinate Wisely: Avoid over-marinating; too much time in an acidic marinade can change the chicken’s texture.
• Preheat Well: A properly heated grill ensures a good sear, locking in juices while creating those beautiful grill marks.
• Check Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to confirm that the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F for safety.
• Rest Before Serving: Allowing the chicken to rest helps retain moisture, making each bite succulent.

PIN THIS!

Best Side Dishes for The Best Grilled Chicken Fillet

Pairing sides with your grilled chicken fillet can elevate your meal. Here are some fantastic options that complement its Mediterranean flavors perfectly.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide a comforting balance.
2. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: These naturally sweet potatoes bring a delightful contrast to savory dishes.
3. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw adds texture and freshness, perfect for summer gatherings.
4. Couscous Salad: Fluffy couscous mixed with herbs and lemon zest offers a light yet filling option.
5. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn enhances summer vibes; brush with butter for extra flavor.
6. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Fill them with rice, beans, or quinoa for a colorful side full of nutrients.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing The Best Grilled Chicken Fillet, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your chicken turns out perfectly.

• Over-marinating: Leaving chicken in the marinade for too long can break down its texture. Aim for 30 minutes to 4 hours for optimal flavor.
• Skipping the pounding step: Not pounding the chicken can lead to uneven cooking. Use a meat mallet to flatten the fillets before marinating.
• Ignoring temperature: Cooking chicken without checking its internal temperature can result in undercooking or overcooking. Always use a meat thermometer; aim for 165°F.
• Using a cold grill: Placing chicken on a cold grill can cause sticking and uneven cooking. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat before grilling.
• Not letting it rest: Cutting into grilled chicken immediately can dry it out. Allow it to rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing, so juices redistribute.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing The Best Grilled Chicken Fillet

• Wrap grilled chicken tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• You can freeze it for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating The Best Grilled Chicken Fillet

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place chicken on a baking sheet, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in short intervals (30 seconds) until warm.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist, heating for about 5-7 minutes.

PIN THIS!

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes The Best Grilled Chicken Fillet so flavorful?

The marinade combines balsamic vinegar, lemon juice, garlic, and fresh herbs, infusing the chicken with vibrant Mediterranean flavors.

Can I use bone-in chicken instead of boneless?

Yes, but cooking time will vary. Bone-in pieces typically require longer on the grill than boneless fillets.

How do I know when my grilled chicken is done?

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

What sides go well with The Best Grilled Chicken Fillet?

Pair it with fresh salads, steamed vegetables, or grains like quinoa or couscous for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

The Best Grilled Chicken Fillet is not only quick and easy but also bursting with flavor. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or summer barbecues. Feel free to customize the marinade by adding your favorite spices or herbs!