Juicy Garlic Parmesan Grilled Chicken Recipe

Sizzling Juicy Garlic Parmesan Grilled Chicken Recipe

Summers call for backyard barbecues with friends, and this garlic parmesan grilled chicken promises to be the star of any gathering.

Marinated in a rich blend of herbs and spices, the chicken absorbs incredible flavors that make every bite memorable.

The garlic parmesan combination delivers a mouthwatering experience that elevates simple grilled chicken to a gourmet delight.

Fresh ingredients and a simple technique ensure you can master this dish with ease.

Each succulent piece comes off the grill with a golden, crispy exterior and tender, juicy interior.

The blend of parmesan cheese and garlic creates a savory coating that seals in moisture and adds irresistible depth.

Prepare to impress your guests with this restaurant-quality chicken that’s surprisingly easy to make at home.

Must-Have Tools for Garlic Parmesan Grilled Chicken

  • Mixing bowl: Essential for combining marinade ingredients and coating chicken.
  • Whisk: Perfect for blending marinade smoothly without lumps.
  • Measuring spoons: Helps accurately portion seasonings and honey.
  • Grill or grill pan: Core cooking surface for achieving those delicious char marks.
  • Tongs: Best for safely turning chicken and handling hot meat on grill.
  • Meat thermometer: Crucial for checking chicken reaches safe internal temperature.
  • Cutting board: Provides clean surface for preparing and resting chicken.
  • Cheese grater: Optional for freshly grating Parmesan if using whole cheese block.

How to Cook Garlic Parmesan Grilled Chicken on Point

  • Create Flavor Blast Marinade

Whip up a tangy mixture using olive oil, lemon juice, honey, crushed garlic, and grated Parmesan. Fully coat chicken pieces and let them soak up deliciousness for 30 minutes to 4 hours.

  • Fire Up the Grill

Crank grill to medium-high heat and lightly brush grates with oil to prevent sticking.

  • Sizzle and Cook

Place marinated chicken on hot grates. Grill each side for 5-7 minutes, ensuring chicken reaches a perfect 165F internal temperature with clear juices.

  • Cheese Magic Finale

During last couple minutes of cooking, sprinkle extra Parmesan over chicken, allowing it to melt into a golden, crispy layer.

  • Rest and Serve

Pull chicken off grill and let it rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and extra flavor burst.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

Calories: 215 kcal

Servings: 4

Everything for Garlic Parmesan Grilled Chicken Success

For Marinade Base:
  • Olive Oil: Helps distribute flavors and keeps chicken moist during grilling.
  • Lemon Juice: Tenderizes meat and adds bright, zesty complexity to the marinade.
  • Honey: Balances acidity and creates caramelization for enhanced grilling flavor.
For Flavor Enhancers:
  • Garlic: Provides robust, aromatic punch and classic depth to the chicken.
  • Parmesan Cheese: Delivers nutty, salty undertones and creates a delicious crispy crust.
  • Seasonings: Boost overall taste profile and complement the chicken's natural richness.
For Finishing Touch:
  • Fresh Parsley: Adds fresh, herbaceous brightness and visual appeal to the final dish.
  • Extra Parmesan Cheese: Offers additional savory layer and decorative garnish for serving.

Garlic Parmesan Grilled Chicken Flavor Ideas That Work

  • Crispy, Juicy Chicken Every Time
  • Let chicken soak longer (up to 4 hours) for deeper flavor infusion. Avoid marinating more than 8 hours to prevent meat from becoming mushy.
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches exact 165F. Let chicken rest after grilling to lock in juices and maintain tenderness.
  • Replace honey with sugar-free sweetener for keto diet. Skip extra cheese topping to reduce calories and keep protein lean.
  • When grilling isn't possible, bake chicken at 400F for 20-25 minutes. Use same marinade and sprinkle Parmesan in last 5 minutes of baking.
  • Experiment with fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or basil in marinade for different flavor profiles. Chop herbs finely to distribute flavor evenly.

Serving Garlic Parmesan Grilled Chicken with Sides You Love

  • Flavor Explosion Plate: Pair the juicy grilled chicken with roasted Mediterranean vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant for a colorful and nutritious side.
  • Fresh and Zesty Companion: Serve alongside a crisp summer salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light lemon vinaigrette to complement the chicken's garlic and Parmesan profile.
  • Carb Perfect Match: Accompany the chicken with herbed quinoa or garlic-infused rice pilaf to soak up the delicious marinade and add a satisfying texture to the meal.
  • Elegant Wine Selection: Enhance the dining experience by pairing the dish with a chilled Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Grigio that brings out the chicken's tangy and savory notes.

Tips to Save Garlic Parmesan Grilled Chicken Without Drying It Out

  • Store leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days, keeping the meat moist and flavorful by sealing it tightly with remaining juices.
  • Wrap individual chicken pieces in plastic wrap, then place in freezer bags to maintain quality for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in refrigerator before reheating.
  • Warm chicken gently in microwave with a damp paper towel to prevent drying, or reheat in oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
  • Slice cold chicken for quick salads, sandwiches, or wraps during the week. Keep extra Parmesan cheese nearby to sprinkle on top for an instant flavor boost.
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Juicy Garlic Parmesan Grilled Chicken Recipe

Juicy Garlic Parmesan Grilled Chicken Recipe


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4.6 from 20 reviews

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 5 1x

Description

Succulent garlic parmesan grilled chicken delivers a Mediterranean-inspired flavor explosion that tantalizes taste buds. Herb-infused chicken emerges perfectly charred and juicy, promising a delightful meal you’ll savor with each delectable bite.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ½ to 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
  • ¼ cup (60 ml) olive oil
  • ¼ cup (30 g) grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons (30 ml) lemon juice
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tablespoon (15 ml) honey (optional, for balance)
  • 1 teaspoon (5 ml) Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon (2.5 ml) smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon (2.5 ml) salt
  • ¼ teaspoon (1.25 ml) black pepper
  • Additional Parmesan cheese for topping
  • Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Marination Magic: Whisk olive oil, lemon juice, honey, minced garlic, dried seasonings, and grated Parmesan in a mixing bowl. Thoroughly coat chicken pieces, ensuring complete coverage. Seal and refrigerate for a flavor-infusing duration between 30 minutes to 4 hours.
  2. Grill Preparation: Ignite grill to medium-high temperature. Lightly brush grates with oil to prevent potential chicken adhesion.
  3. Precise Grilling Technique: Extract chicken from marinade, allowing excess liquid to drip away. Position chicken on heated grates, cooking approximately 5-7 minutes per side. Monitor internal temperature, targeting 165°F (75°C) for perfect doneness. Observe clear meat juices as additional doneness indicator.
  4. Cheese Finale: During final grilling moments, generously dust additional Parmesan across chicken surface, permitting gentle melting and creating delectable crispy edges.
  5. Serving Presentation: Transfer grilled chicken from grates, allowing brief 5-minute resting period. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and optional extra Parmesan cheese. Plate and serve immediately for optimal temperature and flavor enjoyment.

Notes

  • Marinate for at least 30 minutes to ensure moisture and flavor absorption, with maximum time being 4 hours to maintain meat’s texture.
  • Use a meat thermometer to confirm chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) for safe, perfectly cooked results without overcooking.
  • Sprinkle Parmesan during final grilling moments to create a crispy, golden cheese crust without burning.
  • Allow chicken to rest 5 minutes after grilling to redistribute juices, ensuring each bite remains tender and succulent.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Dinner, Lunch
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 5
  • Calories: 300
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 400 mg
  • Fat: 15 g
  • Saturated Fat: 3 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 6 g
  • Fiber: 0 g
  • Protein: 30 g
  • Cholesterol: 80 mg
William Hawkins

William Hawkins

Founder & Culinary Director

Expertise

  • Modern American and Southern Cuisine
  • Farm-to-Table Practices
  • Restaurant Concept Development
  • Culinary Education and Mentorship​

Education

Sullivan University, Louisville, KY

  • Degree: Associate of Science in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Focused on mastering culinary methods and food science, immersive externships, hands‑on training in industry‑standard kitchen labs, and equipping graduates for roles in restaurant operations.

William Hawkins isn’t just a chef, he’s a storyteller through food. From his hometown of Louisville, KY, he’s spent years refining his craft, turning local ingredients into something extraordinary. 

With classical training from Sullivan University and a career marked by innovation, mentorship, and Southern soul, William approaches every recipe with purpose. His kitchen is where old techniques meet fresh ideas, and where comfort food gets a thoughtful, modern twist. 

When he’s not building dishes from the ground up, he’s out gathering inspiration from nature, markets, and the stories people share around the table.

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