By Mr. B · Published 2026-07-29 · Updated 2026-08-05

Quick Meals Recipe

Grilled Chicken Breast

Butterflied chicken breast marinated, grilled over direct heat, and cooked to 165°F. Juicy, not rubbery, and ready in under 40 minutes. The weeknight cook done right.

Cook Time30-40 min
Pit TempDirect medium-high heat (375–400°F)
Serves4
Skill LevelBeginner

Ingredients

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 3 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp kosher salt
  • 1 tsp coarse black pepper
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp dried oregano or Italian seasoning
  • Fresh lemon slices for serving

Method

  1. Butterfly each chicken breast: place flat on a cutting board and slice through the middle horizontally, stopping before you cut all the way through. Open like a book. This creates even thickness for consistent cooking.
  2. In a bowl or zip bag, combine olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and all dry seasonings. Add the chicken and marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours in the refrigerator.
  3. Pull chicken from the marinade and let any excess drip off. Pat lightly dry with a paper towel.
  4. Set the grill to medium-high direct heat, around 375–400°F. Let grates preheat and oil them lightly.
  5. Place chicken flat on the grate. Cook for 5-6 minutes without moving until grill marks are set and the meat releases cleanly from the grate.
  6. Flip once. Cook another 4-5 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F in the thickest part.
  7. Rest on a cutting board for 5 minutes before slicing or serving whole. Finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon.

Mr. B's Pitmaster Notes

Butterflying is the simplest way to fix the most common grilled chicken problem — a breast that is raw in the center and overcooked at the edges. The even thickness means it cooks through at the same rate on all sides.

Use a calibrated food thermometer and follow the stated safe internal temperatures. Cooking time is an estimate; temperature and tenderness determine doneness.

Take the Method to the Pit

Build the fire-management and timing skills behind this cook with Backyard BBQ-R videos and cook-ready guides.