Grilled Chicken with Garlic

Instructions

1. 1

   Combine minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, chopped rosemary, thyme, Dijon mustard, and honey in a small bowl to create the marinade.

   Tip: Prepare this marinade while your grill preheats for efficiency.

2. 2

   Place chicken breasts on a cutting board and gently pound them to an even thickness of about three-quarters of an inch using a meat mallet.

   Tip: Even thickness ensures the chicken cooks uniformly without dry edges.

3. 3

   Rub the marinade generously over both sides of each chicken breast, ensuring the garlic and herbs coat the entire surface. Season with sea salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.

   Tip: Reserve a small amount of marinade to brush on the chicken halfway through cooking for added flavor.

4. 4

   Let the marinated chicken sit at room temperature for 15 minutes while you preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F).

   Tip: Room temperature chicken cooks more evenly and retains moisture better than cold chicken.

5. 5

   Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking. Place chicken breasts on the grill and cook for 12-14 minutes, turning once halfway through.

   Tip: Avoid moving the chicken too frequently; let it develop a golden crust before flipping.

6. 6

   Brush the reserved marinade onto the chicken during the last few minutes of cooking for extra garlicky flavor.

   Tip: Check internal temperature reaches 165°F using a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part.

7. 7

   Remove chicken from the grill and let it rest on a clean plate for 5 minutes before serving.

   Tip: Resting allows juices to redistribute throughout the meat, keeping it moist and tender.

8. 8

   Serve hot with your choice of sides such as grilled vegetables, roasted potatoes, or a fresh garden salad.

   Tip: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the finished dish adds brightness and complements the garlic beautifully.