Garlic Parmesan Grilled Chicken Clara quick dinners

Garlic Parmesan Grilled Chicken is juicy, flavorful, and loaded with savory goodness. Marinated in a garlicky, cheesy blend and grilled to perfection, this easy recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavor with minimal effort—perfect for summer cookouts or any weeknight dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This grilled chicken is bursting with bold, crave-worthy flavor from the combination of garlic, Parmesan, and herbs. The marinade not only infuses the meat with richness but also helps keep it tender and moist on the grill. It’s versatile enough to pair with salads, pasta, or roasted veggies and works with chicken breasts, thighs, or tenders. Simple ingredients, big flavor, and easy prep—what’s not to love?

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• Olive oil
• Garlic, minced
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Lemon juice
• Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper
• Optional: fresh parsley or extra Parmesan for garnish

directions

1. In a bowl or zip-top bag, whisk together olive oil, garlic, Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the chicken to the marinade and coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, up to 4 hours.
3. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Oil the grates to prevent sticking.
4. Remove chicken from the marinade and grill for 57 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and nicely charred.
5. Let rest for a few minutes before slicing.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if desired. Serve warm.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people.

Prep time: 10 minutes
Marinate time: 30 minutes to 4 hours
Cook time: 1215 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes to 1 hour (with marinating)

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne to the marinade.
• Oven Option: Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 2025 minutes if grilling isn’t an option.
• Herb Swap: Try rosemary, thyme, or fresh basil in place of Italian seasoning.
• Crispy Finish: Top with a garlic-Parmesan panko crust for a crunchy twist.
• Cheese Twist: Mix in mozzarella or Asiago with the Parmesan for a richer flavor.

storage/reheating

Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through. You can also enjoy it cold on salads or in wraps. Freezing is possible—freeze cooked chicken for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use bone-in chicken?

Yes, just adjust the cook time—bone-in pieces take longer on the grill.

What’s the best Parmesan to use?

Freshly grated Parmesan has the best flavor and texture, but pre-grated works in a pinch.

Can I marinate the chicken overnight?

Yes, but no more than 12 hours, as the acid in the lemon juice can begin to break down the chicken too much.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Definitely—it’s flavorful but not spicy, making it great for all ages.

Can I make this without a grill?

Yes, use a grill pan on the stovetop or bake it in the oven.

How do I know when the chicken is done?

Use a meat thermometer—internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?

Yes, substitute ½ teaspoon garlic powder for every clove of fresh garlic.

What sides go well with this?

Try it with roasted veggies, pasta, Caesar salad, or garlic bread.

Can I use this marinade for other proteins?

Absolutely—it works well with shrimp, pork, or even tofu.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients are naturally gluten-free—just double-check your Parmesan and seasonings.

Conclusion

Garlic Parmesan Grilled Chicken is a flavorful, juicy, and easy dish that’s perfect for summer grilling or any night of the week. With its rich garlic and cheesy marinade, it pairs well with a variety of sides and is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re grilling for a crowd or meal prepping for the week, this chicken delivers every time.

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