This California Grilled Chicken is a perfect dish for any occasion. The combination of tangy lemon, savory soy sauce, and the richness of Dijon mustard creates a marinade that infuses the chicken with incredible flavor, making each bite tender and juicy.
It’s a versatile recipe that can be paired with a variety of sides, such as roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh green salad. The vibrant fresh parsley garnish adds a pop of color, making it not only a tasty meal but an eye-catching one too! Whether you’re grilling on a summer day or preparing a quick dinner, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Full Recipe:
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4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
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1/4 cup olive oil
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2 tablespoons lemon juice
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2 tablespoons soy sauce
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1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
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2 teaspoons garlic powder
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2 teaspoons onion powder
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1 teaspoon smoked paprika
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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Fresh parsley, for garnish
Directions:
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In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
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Place chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish and pour marinade over the chicken. Seal and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours for maximum flavor.
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Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the marinade.
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Grill the chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
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Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 14 minutes | Total Time: 24 minutes
Kcal: 230 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
The Marinade: What Makes it Special
The marinade for California Grilled Chicken is both simple and impactful. By using balsamic vinegar, honey, and olive oil, you create a base that has both acidity and sweetness. The balsamic vinegar adds a sharp tang, while the honey balances it out with sweetness. The olive oil brings richness, and the seasonings—Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper—give it depth and complexity.
Allowing the chicken to marinate in this flavorful mixture is essential for maximum flavor. While it only needs 30 minutes to marinate, letting it sit for up to 4 hours will allow the flavors to fully infuse into the chicken, making each bite rich and succulent. This simple marinade will have your chicken grilled to perfection, with each piece perfectly seasoned inside and out.
Avocado and Tomato Salsa: The Perfect Topping
What truly sets California Grilled Chicken apart is the fresh topping. A salsa made from diced avocado, cherry tomatoes, and basil adds an irresistible freshness to the dish. The creaminess of the avocado complements the tanginess of the tomatoes, while the basil adds a fragrant herbal note. This salsa is a light and refreshing contrast to the richness of the chicken and the melted mozzarella, creating a perfect balance of flavors.
Avocado is a great addition to many dishes because it adds creaminess without being overwhelming. It’s also packed with healthy fats, making it a nutritious topping. The cherry tomatoes provide a burst of freshness and slight acidity, which balances out the richness of the grilled chicken. Fresh basil, with its fragrant aroma, rounds out the salsa and enhances the overall flavor of the dish. When combined with a drizzle of balsamic glaze, the result is a topping that feels both light and luxurious.
Grilling the Chicken: Achieving Perfection
Grilling the chicken is the final step to creating the perfect California Grilled Chicken. You’ll want to preheat your grill to medium-high heat, ensuring that it is hot enough to cook the chicken evenly and develop those beautiful grill marks. The chicken breasts should cook for about 6 to 8 minutes per side, depending on their thickness. Using a thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) is crucial to ensure the chicken is fully cooked and safe to eat.
Once the chicken is cooked through, top each breast with a slice of mozzarella. Cover the grill to allow the cheese to melt, which should only take about 1 to 2 minutes. The melted mozzarella gives the dish an indulgent touch, enhancing the flavor and texture of the chicken.
Serving Suggestions: How to Make the Dish Shine
California Grilled Chicken can be served in a variety of ways. For a low-carb option, consider serving the chicken over a bed of fresh salad greens or cauliflower rice. The refreshing elements of the avocado and tomato salsa pair wonderfully with leafy greens, making it a healthy, satisfying meal. If you’re craving a more filling dish, serve it with a side of cilantro lime rice or roasted vegetables to complement the grilled chicken.
For a more casual meal, you can serve the chicken alongside tortilla chips and guacamole. The creamy avocado topping and balsamic glaze are perfect for dipping, making this meal great for a laid-back dinner or even a fun BBQ with friends.
For those who want a complete meal, pairing the chicken with a fresh, crisp Green Goddess salad adds a touch of freshness and balance, making it an ideal choice for a light yet satisfying dinner. The various serving options ensure that you can adapt the dish to any occasion or personal taste preference.
How to Store and Reheat California Grilled Chicken
One of the great things about California Grilled Chicken is that it can be made ahead and stored for later. Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. However, it’s best to store the chicken separately from the avocado and tomato salsa to maintain the freshness of the salsa. Avocado tends to brown quickly, so keeping it separate ensures that your leftovers still look as appetizing as they did when they were first made.
If you want to enjoy the chicken later, it can be reheated in a skillet over medium heat. Just be sure to heat it gently to avoid drying it out. Reheat the chicken until it is warmed through, then top it with fresh salsa before serving. While the chicken can also be frozen for up to 3 months, the avocado topping should not be frozen. If you plan to freeze the dish, prepare the salsa fresh when you’re ready to serve.
Why You’ll Love California Grilled Chicken
California Grilled Chicken is a meal that’s bursting with flavor while still being light and healthy. The balance between the honey balsamic marinade, the rich mozzarella, and the creamy avocado topping makes each bite an explosion of fresh, tangy, and savory flavors. It’s a dish that feels indulgent yet light enough to be enjoyed year-round.
This recipe is perfect for those who love grilled chicken but want to switch things up. The addition of fresh ingredients like avocado, cherry tomatoes, and mozzarella elevates this dish to a gourmet level, making it ideal for special occasions or a weeknight dinner. With its simple ingredients and straightforward cooking methods, it’s also a great choice for beginner cooks looking to impress without complicated techniques.
Conclusion
California Grilled Chicken is the epitome of a healthy, vibrant, and flavorful dish. With its simple yet impressive marinade, fresh topping, and juicy grilled chicken, it’s perfect for anyone looking for a quick and delicious meal. Whether you’re preparing it for a busy weeknight or for a fun summer BBQ, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. The combination of textures and flavors will leave everyone asking for seconds!
So, fire up the grill, gather your ingredients, and treat yourself and your loved ones to this mouthwatering dish today. Enjoy!