Speedy dinners are the name of the game but mean nothing if they don’t pack a serious flavor punch. This easy grilled chicken recipe with the most delicious vegetables ticks all the boxes for a perfect family meal. Easy, healthy and totally delicious with a simple marinade to give the chicken and vegetables a big boost of yum! This recipe works as well on an outdoor grill as it does in a griddle pan on the stove. Be sure to pre-heat both well to get a good sear on the chicken and vegetables without overcooking them.
Ingredients
The marinade is super simple and can be made with any of your favorite herbs and spices. You could even use something like taco seasoning, Italian seasoning, etc. Similarly, use any veggies you and your family enjoy eating.
Chicken. I use boneless skinless chicken breasts because they cook so quickly. Marinade: Lemon juice (lime can be substituted), olive oil, garlic, paprika, oregano, chilli flakes/red pepper flakes, salt and black pepper. Rosemary, fresh parsley, vinegar, honey, lemon or orange zest, thyme, cilantro/coriander or cumin will all be delicious too. I often just use a few tablespoons of whichever fresh herbs I have in the fridge. Vegetables of your choice.
Best vegetables for grilling
Zucchini / Courgette (and any summer squash in general). Red Bell peppers / Sweet peppers. Broccolini. Asparagus. Mushrooms. Par-cooked baby potatoes. Corn. Red onions. Cherry tomatoes on the vine. Eggplant / Aubergine.
How do you grill chicken without drying it out?
The most accurate way to get best grilled chicken breasts is to use a meat thermometer. That way you know when the chicken is cooked through without overcooking and therefore drying out the chicken breast. Another good tip is to marinate the chicken. Chicken breasts that are marinated or brined are also often juicier and more tender than plain grilled breasts. Plus, the chicken marinade/brine will result in tastier chicken. It’s also important to allow the chicken to rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing. This gives the juices time to redistribute through the meat and not run out onto the cutting board. Preheat your grill (a wood/ gas grill/charcoal grill is always my preferred way of grilling but a grill pan works well too) on medium-high heat for 10 minutes. Place chicken on the grill and allow to cook for 3-4 minutes per side, depending on thickness. I flip my chicken 2-3 times during cooking to ensure even browning.
How long to grill chicken?
The FDA says chicken breast should be cooked to 73ºC/165ºF internal temperature for it to be safe from any Salmonella, etc. I prefer taking chicken off the grill at 68ºC/155ºF as the temperature will continue rising as it rests. I’m also comfortable with cooking it a little less as I know I’m using safe, organic chicken but if you’re worried, cooking it to 73ºC/165ºF is a safe bet and especially important if you’re cooking for anyone with a sensitive immune system.
Grilled chicken recipes
