tender chicken delight recipe
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Marinating Time: 1 hour (optional)
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Serves: 4
Intensity: Moderate
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Marinate the Chicken (Optional):
- In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper to create the marinade.
- Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for more flavor.
- Preheat the Grill or Skillet:
- Preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat. If using a grill, lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
- Grill or Cook the Chicken:
- Remove the chicken breasts from the marinade, shaking off excess, and discard the marinade.
- Grill the chicken breasts for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until they are cooked through and have nice grill marks. Alternatively, you can cook the chicken in a skillet with a little olive oil, cooking for about 6-8 minutes per side until done.
- Rest and Serve:
- Once cooked, transfer the chicken breasts to a plate and let them rest for a few minutes before slicing.
- Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve the tender chicken delight hot with your favorite sides such as rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.
Variations:
- Add a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup to the marinade for a touch of sweetness.
- Sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese or crumbled feta cheese over the cooked chicken breasts for added flavor.
- You can also add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the chicken before serving for an extra burst of citrus freshness.