Introduction
If you’re looking for a flavorful and easy-to-make grilled chicken recipe, this dish is perfect for you. With a delightful marinade featuring lemon, honey, and Dijon mustard, these chicken cutlets are sure to impress. The combination of sweet and savory flavors, paired with a smoky paprika kick, brings a burst of zest to your meal. Whether for a family dinner or a summer cookout, this recipe will satisfy your taste buds.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
4 boneless, skinless chicken breast thin cutlets (approximately 1½ to 2 pounds total weight)
⅓ cup fresh lemon juice
⅓ cup canola oil
¼ cup honey
3 tablespoons Dijon mustard
¾ teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
Prep Time
1 to 2 hours (for marinating the chicken)
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 12 to 16 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes to 2 hours 16 minutes (including marination)
Yield: Serves approximately 4 people
Enjoy your delicious grilled chicken, bursting with flavor and perfect for any occasion!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Place the chicken breast cutlets into a large, heavy-duty zip-top bag.
Step 2: Make the Marinade
In a small bowl, whisk together the fresh lemon juice, canola oil, honey, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper until fully combined.
Step 3: Marinate the Chicken
Pour the marinade over the chicken in the zip-top bag. Seal the bag, squeezing out as much air as possible. Place the bag on a plate and refrigerate for 1 to 2 hours.
Step 4: Preheat the Grill
Preheat an outdoor grill to 400°F.
Step 5: Grill the Chicken
Remove the chicken from the marinade and place it on the grill. Close the lid and cook for 6 to 8 minutes.
Step 6: Flip and Cook
Flip the chicken over and cook for an additional 6 to 8 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Step 7: Rest and Serve
Remove the grilled chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
Marinating Time
For optimal flavor, aim for a marinating time of 2 hours if possible, but a minimum of 1 hour will still produce a delicious result.
Temperature Check
Always use a meat thermometer to ensure that the chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165°F for food safety.
Serving Suggestions
Consider serving the grilled chicken with a fresh salad, grilled vegetables, or rice for a complete meal.
Storage
Leftover grilled chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before consuming.
Cook techniques
Marinating
Marinating chicken in a mixture of lemon juice, oil, honey, and spices allows the flavors to penetrate the meat, enhancing its taste and tenderness.
Grilling
Grilling chicken at a high temperature creates a nice sear on the outside while locking in moisture, resulting in juicy cutlets. It’s important to flip the chicken halfway through cooking to ensure even grilling.
Checking for Doneness
Using a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F ensures that the chicken is fully cooked and safe to eat.
Resting
Allowing the grilled chicken to rest for a few minutes before slicing helps the juices redistribute, making the chicken more tender and flavorful.
FAQ
Can I use other types of chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use chicken thighs or leg quarters, but cooking times may vary based on thickness.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
Marinate the chicken for at least 1 hour to up to 2 hours for optimal flavor.
Can I grill the chicken indoors?
Yes, you can use a stovetop grill pan or an indoor electric grill, but adjust the cooking time as needed.
What can I serve with grilled chicken?
Grilled chicken pairs well with salads, steamed vegetables, rice, or potatoes.
Can I make this marinade ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the marinade and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before using it on the chicken.
Conclusion
Grilling marinated chicken cutlets with a sweet and tangy flavor profile not only enhances the taste but also keeps the meat juicy and tender. This recipe is perfect for a quick weekday dinner or a weekend barbecue, offering a delightful combination of simplicity and bold flavors.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Honey Mustard Salmon
Replace chicken with salmon fillets and use the same marinade for a delicious seafood dish packed with flavor.
Vegetable Skewers
Marinate a mix of bell peppers, zucchini, and red onions in the same mixture for a vibrant and tasty side dish to accompany the grilled chicken.
Lemon Herb Quinoa Salad
Create a refreshing quinoa salad by combining cooked quinoa with diced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and a dressing of lemon juice, olive oil, and fresh herbs.
Grilled Shrimp Tacos
Use the marinade for shrimp, and grill them to perfection. Serve in corn tortillas with avocado and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for a satisfying meal.
Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Toss Brussels sprouts in olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper, then roast them alongside the chicken for a deliciously caramelized side dish.
Lemon Garlic Pasta
Cook pasta and toss it with olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and freshly grated parmesan for a light yet satisfying side that pairs well with the grilled chicken.
