Grilled Rosemary Chicken Breasts: A Flavorful Summer Delight

Summer is synonymous with grilling, and what better way to celebrate the season than with perfectly grilled rosemary chicken breasts? This recipe is not only incredibly flavorful but also surprisingly easy to make. The herbaceous aroma of rosemary infuses the chicken, creating a dish that’s both sophisticated and comforting. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or simply looking for a quick and healthy weeknight dinner, this grilled rosemary chicken breast recipe is sure to become a new favorite.

## Why You’ll Love This Recipe

* **Flavorful:** The combination of fresh rosemary, garlic, lemon, and olive oil creates a vibrant and aromatic marinade that penetrates the chicken, resulting in an incredibly flavorful dish.
* **Healthy:** Chicken breasts are a lean source of protein, and grilling is a healthy cooking method that minimizes the need for added fats.
* **Easy to Make:** This recipe requires minimal ingredients and simple steps, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
* **Versatile:** Grilled rosemary chicken breasts can be served in a variety of ways, from salads and sandwiches to pasta dishes and grain bowls.
* **Impressive:** This dish is elegant enough to serve to guests but simple enough to make for a casual family meal.

## Ingredients You’ll Need

* **Chicken Breasts:** Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the star of the show. Aim for breasts that are about the same size for even cooking.
* **Fresh Rosemary:** Fresh rosemary is essential for the signature flavor of this dish. Dried rosemary can be used in a pinch, but the flavor won’t be as vibrant.
* **Garlic:** Garlic adds a pungent and savory note to the marinade.
* **Lemon:** Lemon juice brightens the flavor of the marinade and tenderizes the chicken.
* **Olive Oil:** Olive oil helps to keep the chicken moist and juicy during grilling.
* **Salt and Pepper:** Seasoning is key to bringing out the flavors of the other ingredients. Use kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper for the best results.
* **Optional:** A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a touch of heat to the marinade.

## Detailed Recipe: Grilled Rosemary Chicken Breasts

### Yields: 4 servings

### Prep time: 15 minutes

### Marinating time: 30 minutes (minimum), up to 4 hours

### Cook time: 6-8 minutes per side

### Ingredients:

* 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6-8 ounces each)
* 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
* 4 cloves garlic, minced
* 2 tablespoons lemon juice
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 1 teaspoon kosher salt
* 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
* Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes

### Equipment:

* Grill
* Grilling tongs
* Mixing bowl
* Ziplock bag or container for marinating
* Meat thermometer

### Instructions:

#### 1. Prepare the Marinade:

* In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the chopped rosemary, minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Whisk together until well combined.

#### 2. Marinate the Chicken:

* Place the chicken breasts in a Ziplock bag or container. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring that each piece is evenly coated.
* Seal the bag or container and gently massage the marinade into the chicken.
* Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours. The longer the chicken marinates, the more flavorful it will be.

#### 3. Prepare the Grill:

* Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375-450°F).
* Clean the grill grates thoroughly with a wire brush.
* Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent the chicken from sticking.

#### 4. Grill the Chicken:

* Remove the chicken breasts from the marinade and discard the marinade.
* Place the chicken breasts on the preheated grill.
* Grill for 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
* Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the chicken is cooked through.

#### 5. Rest and Serve:

* Remove the chicken breasts from the grill and let them rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing or serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender and flavorful chicken.
* Serve the grilled rosemary chicken breasts hot off the grill. Enjoy!

## Tips for Grilling the Perfect Chicken Breasts

* **Pound the Chicken:** If your chicken breasts are uneven in thickness, pound them to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch. This will ensure that they cook evenly and prevent them from drying out.
* **Don’t Overcrowd the Grill:** Avoid overcrowding the grill, as this can lower the temperature and prevent the chicken from browning properly. Cook the chicken in batches if necessary.
* **Use a Meat Thermometer:** A meat thermometer is the best way to ensure that your chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken breast, avoiding the bone.
* **Don’t Overcook:** Overcooked chicken can be dry and tough. Cook the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), then remove it from the grill immediately.
* **Let it Rest:** Allowing the chicken to rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing or serving is crucial for keeping it juicy and flavorful.
* **Marinade Matters:** Marinades not only infuse flavor but also help to tenderize the chicken. The acid in lemon juice, vinegar, or yogurt breaks down the protein fibers, resulting in a more tender and juicy finished product.
* **Pat Dry:** Before grilling, pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps to create a nice sear on the outside.
* **Control the Heat:** Grilling over medium-high heat ensures that the chicken cooks through without burning on the outside. If the chicken is browning too quickly, reduce the heat slightly.
* **Use Indirect Heat:** For thicker chicken breasts, you can use indirect heat to cook them more evenly. Place the chicken on a part of the grill that is not directly over the heat source, and close the lid. This will allow the chicken to cook through without burning on the outside.
* **Clean Your Grill:** A clean grill is essential for preventing the chicken from sticking and ensuring even cooking. Use a wire brush to clean the grill grates before preheating the grill.

## Serving Suggestions

Grilled rosemary chicken breasts are incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways. Here are a few ideas:

* **Salad:** Slice the chicken and serve it over a bed of mixed greens with your favorite toppings and dressing.
* **Sandwich:** Use the chicken in sandwiches or wraps with lettuce, tomato, and your favorite condiments.
* **Pasta:** Add the chicken to pasta dishes with pesto, marinara sauce, or cream sauce.
* **Grain Bowl:** Serve the chicken over a bed of quinoa, rice, or other grains with roasted vegetables and a flavorful sauce.
* **Grilled Vegetables:** Pair the chicken with grilled vegetables such as asparagus, zucchini, bell peppers, and onions.
* **Mashed Potatoes or Sweet Potatoes:** A classic side dish that complements the savory flavor of the chicken.
* **Corn on the Cob:** A summer favorite that’s perfect for serving alongside grilled chicken.
* **Caprese Salad:** Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze – a light and refreshing side dish.

## Variations and Additions

* **Lemon Herb Marinade:** Add fresh herbs like thyme, oregano, or parsley to the marinade for an extra boost of flavor.
* **Honey Garlic Marinade:** Add honey and soy sauce to the marinade for a sweet and savory flavor.
* **Spicy Marinade:** Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a drizzle of hot sauce to the marinade for a spicy kick.
* **Balsamic Glaze:** Drizzle the grilled chicken with balsamic glaze for a tangy and sweet finish.
* **Pesto:** Top the grilled chicken with pesto for a burst of fresh, herbaceous flavor.
* **Sun-Dried Tomatoes:** Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the marinade for a Mediterranean-inspired flavor.
* **Goat Cheese:** Crumble goat cheese over the grilled chicken for a creamy and tangy topping.

## Storing and Reheating

* **Storing:** Leftover grilled rosemary chicken breasts can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
* **Reheating:** Reheat the chicken in the microwave, oven, or on the grill. To prevent the chicken from drying out, add a splash of water or broth to the container before reheating.

## Nutritional Information (Approximate)

* Calories: 250-300 per serving
* Protein: 40-45 grams
* Fat: 5-10 grams
* Carbohydrates: 0-2 grams

(Note: Nutritional information may vary depending on the specific ingredients and portion sizes used.)

## Conclusion

Grilled rosemary chicken breasts are a delicious, healthy, and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for summer barbecues or weeknight dinners. With its vibrant flavor and simple preparation, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. So fire up the grill and enjoy this flavorful summer delight! Don’t be afraid to experiment with different variations and additions to create your own signature grilled rosemary chicken breast recipe.