Grilled chicken breast

Grilled chicken breast: a simple, healthy, and extremely versatile delight

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4

The history of grilled chicken breast is fascinating, with deep roots in the culinary traditions of many cultures. Today's dish combines simplicity with flavor, transforming an ordinary ingredient into a feast of aromas. Whether you are an experienced cook or a beginner, this recipe will teach you how to achieve a juicy and flavorful chicken breast, perfect for a family dinner or a gathering with friends.

Ingredients:

- 2 chicken breasts (about 800 g)
- Salt (to taste)
- Black pepper (to taste)
- 1-2 tablespoons of sweet or hot paprika (depending on preference)
- 3-4 tablespoons of olive oil or vegetable oil
- Chicken spices (optional, but recommended for extra flavor)

For serving:
- Golden fried potatoes
- Green salad or grilled vegetables

Step by step:

1. Preparing the chicken breast: Start by washing the chicken breast well under cold water to remove any impurities. After washing, dry it with a paper towel. This step is essential for achieving a beautifully browned crust on the grill.

2. Cutting and pounding the meat: Cut each chicken breast into thin slices, about 1-2 cm thick, to ensure even cooking. Use a meat mallet or a heavy skillet to gently pound each slice, helping to tenderize the meat. This is a trick that will make the meat juicier and more enjoyable to eat.

3. Preparing the marinade: In a bowl, mix the olive oil, salt, pepper, and paprika. You can also add the chicken spices if desired. This marinade will give a delicious flavor to the chicken breast. Make sure all ingredients are well incorporated.

4. Marinating the meat: Take each slice of chicken breast and soak it well in the marinade. Let them marinate for 10-15 minutes if you have time. This step will enhance the flavors and make the meat tastier.

5. Preparing the grill: Preheat the grill to low heat. It is important that the temperature is not too high; otherwise, the chicken breast will brown too quickly on the outside and remain raw on the inside. If using a gas grill, adjust the flame so that you have a steady and even fire.

6. Cooking the chicken breast: Place the slices of chicken breast on the heated grill. Cook them for 6-8 minutes on each side, or until they become golden and well-cooked. A good trick is to turn the chicken breast only once to avoid drying it out.

7. Checking the doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the chicken breast has reached an internal temperature of 75°C. This is the sign that it is perfectly cooked and safe to eat.

8. Serving the dish: Once the chicken breast is ready, let it rest for a few minutes on a cutting board. This will allow the juices to redistribute, making the meat juicier. Serve it alongside golden fried potatoes and a fresh salad or grilled vegetables for a complete and healthy meal. You can also add a slice of lemon for an extra touch of freshness.

Useful tips:

- Make sure the chicken breast is at room temperature before placing it on the grill to ensure even cooking.
- If you want to add an even more intense flavor, you can add crushed garlic or fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the marinade.
- If you don't have a grill, you can also prepare this dish on a grill pan or in the oven at 200°C for 20-25 minutes.

Frequently asked questions:

- How can I keep cooked chicken breast fresh for longer? You can store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3 days. I recommend reheating it in the oven to maintain juiciness.
- What other side dishes go well with grilled chicken breast? You can try basmati rice, sautéed vegetables, or a quinoa salad for a varied and healthy meal.

Calories and nutritional benefits:

Chicken breast is an excellent source of protein, providing about 165 calories per 100 g and is also low in fat. It contains B vitamins, essential for energy metabolism, and minerals like phosphorus and selenium, which play important roles in bone health and the immune system.

Possible variations:

- To add an exotic note, you can try a marinade based on Greek yogurt and Indian spices like curry or cardamom.
- If you prefer a spicier taste, you can add chili flakes to the marinade or serve the chicken breast with a spicy pepper-based sauce.

This grilled chicken breast recipe is perfect for any occasion and can be customized according to your preferences. Don't forget to enjoy every step of the cooking process and share this delicacy with your loved ones. Enjoy your meal!