Get ready to transform your ordinary grilled chicken into a mouthwatering masterpiece that will have everyone asking for your culinary secret! This Simply Martha Buttermilk Grilled Chicken recipe is not just another chicken dish – it's a game-changing technique that guarantees tender, succulent meat infused with incredible flavor in every single bite. Whether you're a weekend grilling enthusiast or a home cook looking to impress, this recipe promises to elevate your cooking game and turn an everyday meal into a restaurant-worthy experience.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breasts
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Optional: fresh herbs for garnish
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine buttermilk, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to create a marinade.
- Place chicken breasts in the buttermilk marinade, ensuring each piece is fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight for maximum flavor absorption.
- Remove chicken from refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking to allow it to come to room temperature, which helps ensure even cooking.
- Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat (around 375-400°F).
- Remove chicken from marinade, letting excess drip off. Pat chicken dry with paper towels to promote better grill marks.
- Lightly brush chicken with olive oil to prevent sticking and enhance browning.
- Place chicken on preheated grill, cooking for 6-8 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F when checked with a meat thermometer.
- Let chicken rest for 5 minutes after grilling to allow juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and tender result.
- Optional: Garnish with freshly chopped herbs like parsley, thyme, or chives before serving.
Tips
- Marinating Magic: The longer you marinate, the more flavorful your chicken will be. While 2 hours is good, overnight marination can take your chicken to the next level.
- Temperature Matters: Always let chicken come to room temperature before grilling to ensure even cooking and prevent dry, tough meat.
- Moisture is Key: Pat the chicken dry before grilling to achieve those beautiful grill marks and prevent steaming.
- Don't Overcrowd: Leave space between chicken pieces on the grill to ensure proper heat circulation and even cooking.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: Always check that chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for food safety and perfect doneness.
- Resting is Crucial: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after grilling to allow juices to redistribute, keeping the meat incredibly juicy.
- Herb it Up: Fresh herbs can add a burst of freshness and elevate the overall flavor profile of your grilled chicken.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 292kcal
Carbohydrates: 5g
Protein: 41g
Fat: 13g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 120mg
