If you’re looking to elevate your dinner game with minimal effort, look no further than this tantalizing Grilled Chicken with Italian Dressing! Bursting with flavor and ready in just 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Imagine succulent, juicy chicken breasts kissed by the smoky grill, all while marinated in zesty Italian dressing that brings a taste of the Mediterranean right to your table. Ready to impress your family and friends? Let’s dive into this simple yet mouthwatering recipe that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 boneless chicken breasts
- 1 cup Italian dressing
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Remove chicken breasts from refrigerator and pat dry with paper towels to ensure even marination and cooking.
- Place chicken breasts in a large shallow dish or resealable plastic bag, then pour Italian dressing over the chicken, ensuring each piece is fully coated. Cover and marinate in refrigerator for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours for deeper flavor).
- Preheat outdoor grill or indoor grill pan to medium-high heat (around 375-400°F). Clean and lightly oil grill grates to prevent sticking.
- Remove chicken from marinade, allowing excess dressing to drip off. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Place chicken breasts on hot grill and cook for 6-8 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F when checked with a meat thermometer.
- During grilling, avoid moving chicken too much to create nice grill marks and ensure even cooking.
- Once cooked, transfer chicken to a clean plate and let rest for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving. Slice and serve with your favorite side dishes like roasted vegetables or pasta.
Tips
- Marinate for Maximum Flavor: For the best results, let the chicken marinate in the Italian dressing for at least 30 minutes, but if you have the time, aim for 2 hours. This will infuse the chicken with incredible flavor and tenderness.
- Preheat Your Grill: Make sure your grill is preheated to the right temperature (375-400°F) before adding the chicken. A hot grill ensures a nice sear and prevents the chicken from sticking.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Grill: If you're grilling multiple pieces, give each chicken breast enough space. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and steaming instead of grilling.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure your chicken is perfectly cooked, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F for safe consumption.
- Let It Rest: After grilling, allow the chicken to rest for about 5 minutes. This step is crucial as it lets the juices redistribute, keeping your chicken moist and flavorful.
- Garnish for Presentation: A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the dish's flavor. Serve it alongside roasted vegetables or pasta for a complete meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 285kcal
Carbohydrates: 4g
Protein: 31g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 85mg
