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I beat those summer BBQ cravings every time with tasty garlic Parmesan chicken straight from the grill. Lemon boosts the whole thing, you get pops of herbs, then it gets all gooey from melty Parmesan. Handfuls of parsley freshen things up. Backyard hangs or making lunch ahead—it’s just super flavorful with stuff you probably already have around.
This became my all-star for last-minute grill nights. Tossed it together once for family and it was gone in minutes. Now it’s requested every time the grill comes out.
Mouthwatering Ingredients
- Olive oil: locks in moisture and soaks in the flavors go for extra virgin if you can
- Lemon juice: adds that zippy brightness pick a juicy lemon
- Honey: smooths out tangy and salty flavors optional if you wanna skip sweet
- Fresh garlic: strong and bold flavor—chop it up yourself for max kick
- Italian seasoning: brings oregano, basil, thyme, and all those classic herby notes
- Smoked paprika: gives you that gentle smokiness especially with great Spanish ones
- Salt: must-have for boosting all the flavors stick to sea salt or kosher if you can
- Black pepper: gives a gentle heat cracked fresh for extra punch
- Grated Parmesan cheese: every bite is creamy and rich grate a block for even better flavor
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs: both are great—thighs are extra juicy, breasts are lighter
- Fresh parsley for garnish: brightens things up with color and fresh taste grab a big handful
Easy Steps
- Let it Rest and Top:
- Once you take chicken off set it aside under loose foil Let it rest for 5 minutes Top with chopped parsley and extra Parm if you like things extra cheesy
- Melt More Cheese:
- Right before you’re done, scatter on more Parmesan Let it melt over the chicken as it finishes
- Grill Away:
- Drop chicken right from the marinade on the grill after shaking off the extra Let it cook for 5 to 7 minutes each side (depends on thickness) You know it’s done when it hits 165°F inside and juices run clear
- Fire Up the Grill:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high Rub grates with oily paper towel so nothing sticks Get those tasty grill marks
- Time to Marinate:
- Lay your chicken into the marinade bowl Toss till it’s coated Pop in the fridge, covered, at least 30 minutes (up to 4 hours makes big flavor)
- Mix the Marinade:
- Grab a bowl—mix olive oil, lemon juice, honey, minced garlic, Italian herbs, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and Parmesan Stir till you’ve got a smooth tasty marinade
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Good Stuff to Know
The best part? That cheesy crust! When Parmesan hits the hot chicken, it goes all nutty and melty. Reminds me of backyard nights with my dad flipping chicken and handing out cheesy bites right off the grill tongs at family dinners.
Leftover Magic
Chill your chicken down then stash in a sealed container in the fridge—it’s good for four days. Perfect cold on salads, tucked in sandwiches, or packed for a grab-and-go lunch.
Switch-Ups & Add-Ins
No Parmesan? Use Asiago or Pecorino Romano for that cheesy oomph. Skip Italian seasoning? Chop up some fresh basil or thyme instead. Lemon missing? A splash of apple cider vinegar works in a crunch. Chicken thighs make it juicier or even try turkey cutlets for something new.
Serving Ideas
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Throw together a salad, grill up some veggies, or serve it with a pile of rice. Want it more filling? Pass over some garlic bread or toss the chicken in pasta. Chopped up, it’s just perfect on a Caesar salad.
They’ll Talk About This One
Those Italian flavors just hit different! Olive oil, lemon, a fistful of garlic, and sharp cheese is the Mediterranean vibe. Grilling locks it all in. It’s ideal for warm evenings, sharing a cheesy smoky meal with friends while the sky goes pink.
Common Recipe Questions
- → How long should the chicken marinate?
Give it at least thirty minutes, or pump the flavor up by leaving it up to four hours.
- → Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Breasts or thighs both work, but thighs usually stay a bit juicier.
- → How do I keep my chicken from sticking to the grill?
Wipe a bit of oil on the grates and be sure the grill is fully hot before you start.
- → What if I don’t have a grill handy?
No problem! Bake in the oven at 400°F for twenty minutes or cook it in a pan on the stove.
- → What are some great sides?
This goes with anything—grilled vegetables, a crisp green salad, or noodles all work great.
- → When do I add the Parmesan on top?
Sprinkle it over the chicken just before it’s done, so it melts right in the last minutes.