Chef Mitchell preparing Grilled Herb Chicken Delight
👨‍🍳 Expert Chef

Recipe by Mitchell

🎓 10+ Years Experience ⏰ 1000+ Recipes Created 🍽️ Culinary School Graduate

❤️ My Recipe Story

"I discovered this Grilled Herb Chicken Delight recipe during a summer barbecue with friends. The combination of fresh herbs and grilled chicken created a symphony of flavors that left everyone asking for seconds. After perfecting the marinade over several attempts, it has become a staple in my household. I love how versatile it is and how it can elevate any dinner gathering."

Chef Mitchell has a passion for American cuisine, particularly focusing on dinner recipes that bring families together. With over a decade of experience in the culinary world, he has mastered the art of creating flavorful and satisfying meals. His expertise in grilling techniques makes him a go-to for summer recipes.

View All Mitchell's Recipes →
Delicious Grilled Herb Chicken Delight served on a plate

Why This Grilled Herb Chicken Delight Recipe Works

This Grilled Herb Chicken Delight recipe works because of the quality of the ingredients used. Fresh herbs combined with high-quality chicken create a dish that is not only tasty but also nutritious. The marinade is simple yet effective, allowing the natural flavors of the chicken to shine through.

The grilling technique also plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect results. Grilling allows for a slight char on the chicken, enhancing the overall flavor while keeping the meat juicy. The addition of vegetables adds color, texture, and nutrition to the dish.

💡 Professional Tip

To maximize flavor, allow the chicken to marinate for at least 2 hours. This will help the herbs penetrate the meat, ensuring every bite is infused with flavor. For an extra smoky taste, consider adding wood chips to the grill while cooking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can marinate the chicken ahead of time, ideally overnight for the best flavor. Once cooked, it can also be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure to reheat it properly before serving.

If you prefer a different protein, turkey or pork chops work well with this marinade. For a vegetarian option, try marinating tofu or portobello mushrooms, adjusting the cooking time as needed.

The best way to check if the chicken is done is by using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F. Additionally, the juices should run clear when pierced with a fork, and the meat should be firm to the touch.

Yes, you can freeze the marinated chicken before cooking for up to 3 months. Once cooked, it can also be frozen but it's best to consume it within a month for optimal flavor and texture. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Grilled Herb Chicken Delight pairs wonderfully with a side of quinoa, a fresh salad, or grilled vegetables. You can also serve it with rice or pasta tossed in olive oil and herbs for a complete meal.

In the refrigerator, cooked Grilled Herb Chicken Delight will last for about 3-4 days when stored in an airtight container. Make sure to let it cool before refrigerating to maintain its texture.

Yes, you can prepare the marinade and marinate the chicken in advance. This makes for a convenient option if you're planning a meal for a gathering or busy weeknight.

For the best results, reheat Grilled Herb Chicken Delight in the oven at 350°F until heated through, about 10-15 minutes. This helps retain its moisture. Alternatively, you can reheat on the grill for a few minutes to restore its flavor.

Recipe Troubleshooting Guide

✅

Too Dry

Problem: If the chicken ends up too dry, it may have been overcooked.

Solution: To prevent this, ensure to use a meat thermometer and remove from heat as soon as it reaches 165°F. Letting the chicken rest before slicing also helps retain moisture.

✅

Not Crispy Enough

Problem: If the chicken skin is not crispy, it may not have been grilled at a high enough temperature.

Solution: Ensure your grill is preheated adequately and consider increasing the heat slightly for the last few minutes of cooking to crisp up the skin.

✅

Overcooked

Problem: Overcooked chicken can become tough and dry.

Prevention: To prevent this, monitor the cooking time closely and use a thermometer to check doneness.

✅

Undercooked Center

Problem: An undercooked center may occur if the chicken pieces are too thick.

Recovery: Ensure to flatten the chicken pieces for even cooking or cut them into thinner slices before grilling.

✅

Burnt Exterior

Problem: If the chicken is burnt on the outside but undercooked inside, the grill may have been too hot.

Prevention: Lower the grill heat or move the chicken to a cooler part of the grill to finish cooking without burning.

✅

Flavor Balance

Too Sweet: If the dish is too sweet, balance it with a splash of vinegar or lemon juice.

Too Salty: If too salty, serve with a side that can absorb some of the saltiness, like rice or bread.

Bland: If the flavor is bland, add more herbs or spices to enhance the taste.

Fresh ingredients for Grilled Herb Chicken Delight

Essential Ingredients for Grilled Herb Chicken Delight

The key ingredients for Grilled Herb Chicken Delight include fresh herbs, quality chicken, and a simple marinade. Fresh herbs bring vibrant flavors while the chicken provides the protein base for the dish. The marinade, made with olive oil and spices, ensures the chicken is flavorful and tender.

Using high-quality ingredients is essential for achieving the best results. Fresh herbs should be fragrant and vibrant, while the chicken should be free from additives. This attention to ingredient quality makes a notable difference in flavor and overall satisfaction with the dish.

Essential Ingredient Notes

  • Chicken: For the best flavor and texture, use bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces. These cuts tend to remain juicier during grilling. If you prefer a healthier option, skinless chicken breasts are a good alternative.
  • Olive Oil: Choose a high-quality extra virgin olive oil for the marinade. It enhances flavor and helps keep the chicken moist during grilling. Olive oil also acts as a great carrier for the herbs.
  • Fresh Herbs: Using fresh herbs is crucial for this recipe. They provide vibrant and aromatic flavors that dried herbs cannot replicate. Always choose herbs that are bright in color and fragrant.
Cooking process for Grilled Herb Chicken Delight

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

Cooking Grilled Herb Chicken Delight involves marinating the chicken for enhanced flavors and grilling to achieve that perfect char. Start by preparing the marinade and allowing the chicken to soak in those delicious herbs and spices. Grilling is essential for that smoky flavor and juicy texture.

To achieve perfect results, ensure your grill is properly preheated and avoid overcrowding on the grill surface. This allows the heat to circulate evenly, ensuring the chicken cooks uniformly and develops that beautiful grilled exterior.

Key Technique for Perfect Grilled Herb Chicken Delight

The most important technique in making Grilled Herb Chicken Delight is the marinating process. Allowing the chicken to soak in the marinade not only enhances flavor but also tenderizes the meat. This step is crucial for achieving juicy, flavorful chicken that stands out.

Grilled Herb Chicken Delight

Prep 15 min
Cook 45 min
Serves 6 servings
Level Easy

📋 Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup butter
    Room temperature
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
    For flavor
  • 1 tablespoon honey
    For sweetness
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
    For acidity
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
    For flavor

For the Sauce

  • 2 lbs chicken
    Cut into pieces
  • 1 cup olive oil
    For marinade
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley
    Chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil
    Chopped
  • 1 tablespoon garlic
    Minced
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
    For freshness
  • 1 teaspoon salt
    For seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
    For seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
    For color
  • 1 tablespoon dried oregano
    For flavor
  • 1 tablespoon dried thyme
    For flavor
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
    For heat
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes
    Halved
  • 1 cup bell peppers
    Sliced
  • 1 cup zucchini
    Sliced

Instructions

  1. Prepare Marinade

    In a large bowl, combine olive oil, parsley, basil, garlic, lemon juice, salt, pepper, paprika, oregano, thyme, and red pepper flakes.

  2. Marinate Chicken

    Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are evenly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours.

  3. Preheat Grill

    Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Make sure the grill grates are clean and well-oiled.

  4. Grill Chicken

    Remove the chicken from the marinade and shake off excess. Place on the grill and cook for 6-8 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

  5. Add Vegetables

    In the last 10 minutes of grilling, add cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, and zucchini to the grill. Cook until tender and slightly charred.

  6. Rest Chicken

    Once cooked, remove chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.

  7. Serve

    Slice the grilled chicken and serve with the grilled vegetables. Drizzle with additional olive oil if desired.

  8. Enjoy

    Enjoy your delicious Grilled Herb Chicken Delight with your favorite side dishes!

Recipe Notes & Tips

Storage Tips

To store Grilled Herb Chicken Delight, let it cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it in portions.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Grilled Herb Chicken Delight accompanied by a light salad, grilled corn on the cob, or a refreshing yogurt sauce. These sides complement the flavors of the chicken beautifully.

Recipe Variations

You can experiment with different herbs like cilantro or mint for a unique twist. Additionally, try adding a spicy kick with jalapeños or serve it with a tangy barbecue sauce instead of the herb marinade.