Grilled marinated chicken breast with coleslaw

Grilled marinated chicken breast with cabbage salad – a healthy and delicious recipe

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Marinating time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes
Servings: 2

Are you dreaming of a simple yet flavorful dish that brings an explosion of tastes to your table? Grilled marinated chicken breast with cabbage salad is the perfect choice for a healthy, quick, and tasty meal. This recipe combines the lean proteins of chicken with the crisp and refreshing cabbage salad, creating a perfect balance of textures and flavors.

A brief story about marinated chicken breast

Marinating meat is an ancient technique used to enhance flavors and tenderize the meat. Over time, various cultures have developed their own combinations of ingredients for marinades. This simple recipe will not only provide you with juicy chicken but also a culinary delight that will transport you to a world of delicious tastes.

Ingredients:

For the chicken breast:
- 1 boneless chicken breast (approximately 400 g)
- 1 cup of milk (preferably whole for a richer taste)
- 3 tablespoons of olive oil (or another vegetable oil)
- 5 cloves of garlic (finely minced)
- Pepper to taste (black or white, depending on preference)
- 1 teaspoon of sweet paprika (for a slightly smoky note)
- 1 teaspoon of seasoning (or salt, to taste)

For the salad:
- 1/2 cabbage (you can use white or red cabbage)
- 1 large tomato (for a contrast of colors and flavors)
- Salt (to taste)
- Olive oil (for dressing)
- Vinegar (or lemon juice, for a touch of freshness)

Necessary utensils:
- A bowl for marinating
- A grater or knife for cutting
- A pan or grill for cooking
- A plate for serving

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Preparing the chicken breast:
- Start by washing the chicken breast well under cold running water. Then, cut it into smaller pieces, making sure they are not too thin to avoid drying out during cooking.
- Use a meat mallet or another flat tool to gently pound the chicken pieces without breaking them. The goal is to even out their thickness for uniform cooking.

2. Preparing the marinade:
- In a bowl, add the milk, olive oil, minced garlic, sweet paprika, pepper, and seasoning. Mix the ingredients well until you achieve a smooth marinade.
- Place the chicken pieces in the marinade, ensuring they are fully covered. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for 30 minutes. This step is essential for infusing the meat with delicious flavors.

3. Preparing the cabbage salad:
- Meanwhile, cut the cabbage into very thin strips. If you prefer, you can use a large grater for a finer consistency.
- Cut the tomato into cubes and add it to the cabbage. Mix the two ingredients well.
- Season the salad with salt, olive oil, and vinegar to taste. If you like, you can also add a bit of pepper or even some sesame seeds for extra texture.

4. Cooking the chicken breast:
- Preheat the grill or pan over medium heat. It is important to have it well heated before adding the meat to achieve a nice crust.
- Place the chicken pieces on the grill and let them cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked (the inside should reach a temperature of 75°C). Check if they are golden and juicy.

5. Serving:
- Once the chicken is ready, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This step is important as it allows the juices to redistribute, making the meat juicier.
- Serve the chicken breast on a platter alongside the fresh cabbage salad. You can add a few lemon slices to enhance the flavors.

My tip:
For an extra flavor boost, you can add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the marinade, which pair wonderfully with grilled chicken. You can also experiment with various types of oils or vinegars for the salad dressing.

Calories and nutritional benefits:
This grilled marinated chicken breast recipe is an excellent option for a healthy diet. Each serving contains approximately 350-400 calories, being rich in protein, vitamins (from the tomato and cabbage), and minerals. It is an ideal choice for those who want to maintain their weight or develop muscle mass.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use other types of meat?
Of course! This marinade also works well with pork or turkey. The marinating time may vary depending on the type of meat used.

2. How can I store leftovers?
If you have cooked chicken leftovers, you can store them in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3 days. It can be reheated in the microwave or on the grill.

3. What other recipes or drinks can it be paired with?
This recipe pairs perfectly with a side of basmati rice or baked potatoes. Finally, a glass of white wine or a refreshing cocktail can complete the meal.

I wish you happy cooking and bon appétit! This grilled marinated chicken breast with cabbage salad recipe is a delicious choice that will make you return to it every time you crave a healthy and flavorful meal.