By Mr. B · Published 2026-07-29 · Updated 2026-08-05
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.
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
- 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.
- 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.
- Pull chicken from the marinade and let any excess drip off. Pat lightly dry with a paper towel.
- Set the grill to medium-high direct heat, around 375–400°F. Let grates preheat and oil them lightly.
- 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.
- Flip once. Cook another 4-5 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F in the thickest part.
- 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.