Grilled Chicken Breast Spices

This simple grilled chicken breast recipe is the answer to juicy flavorful chicken with little fuss. The spicy yet balanced seasoning brings smoky depth and a great char, while a dash of lime juice and fresh cilantro really wakes up the whole plate. It is a truly worthy weeknight dinner or crowd-pleasing cookout star for any occasion.

My family keeps asking for this one especially because of its big flavor and how easy it is to customize. I first made this for a backyard get together and it instantly disappeared from the platter.

Ingredients

• Kosher salt: ensures even seasoning and helps the meat retain juiciness so choose a fine texture for best results
• Ground black pepper: brings gentle heat and highlights the smoky flavors freshly ground always adds more aroma
• Ground cumin: provides earthiness and a subtle smokiness for an unmistakable grilled taste opt for high quality cumin for best depth
• Chili powder: adds gentle heat and brings gorgeous color check ingredients for freshness and avoid those with too much filler
• Onion powder: supplies sweet savory flavor and keeps the marinade quick and easy look for a clump free brand
• Garlic powder: rounds out the spice blend and delivers savory kick be sure it smells strongly garlicky which means it is still fresh
• Olive oil: is the fat that helps bind spices and gives the chicken its signature juicy finish extra virgin works best for flavor
• Boneless skinless chicken breasts: are easy to cook and absorb seasoning well choose chicken with pale pink flesh and avoid yellowing
• Fresh lime juice: wakes up all the flavors and provides a hit of brightness use a plump heavy lime for max juice
• Chopped fresh cilantro: gives a fresh herbal finish avoid wilted leaves for the best pop of color and taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

Make the Spice Blend:

Mix salt pepper cumin chili powder onion powder and garlic powder in a small dish until evenly combined This is your base layer of flavor

Season the Chicken:

Pat chicken breasts dry with a clean paper towel Drizzle with olive oil then sprinkle and rub the seasoning mix all over each piece until fully coated Make sure spices reach all sides for rich flavor in every bite

Preheat and Prepare the Grill:

Heat your grill or grill pan to medium high Let it get nice and hot for pronounced grill marks and to help prevent the chicken from sticking

Grill the Chicken:

Lay chicken breasts on the hot grill Cook for about 7 to 8 minutes per side depending on thickness Flip once halfway through Only move the chicken when ready to prevent sticking or tearing

Check Temperature and Rest:

Use an instant read thermometer to check for doneness aiming for 160 degrees in the center Remove from grill and rest on a plate tented lightly with foil for 10 minutes The temp will rise to 165 degrees as it rests making it safe and juicy

Finish and Serve:

Squeeze fresh lime juice over the top and scatter chopped cilantro just before serving Slice against the grain for the juiciest cuts and serve hot

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My favorite part of this dish is how a final squeeze of lime makes every bite extra satisfying I have fond memories of grilling chicken for friends then letting everyone build their own tacos with all the toppings

Storage Tips

Refrigerate extra chicken in a tight container for up to three days Leftovers stay moist and flavorful Use cold for salads or gently reheat in a skillet with a splash of broth or water to keep it juicy For long storage freeze individual portions for up to three months and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating

Ingredient Substitutions

This recipe works with chicken thighs or even turkey breast For a bolder twist add smoked paprika to the spice blend or swap chili powder for chipotle for more kick If you are out of cilantro try parsley or even thinly sliced green onions for a herbal touch Lemon juice is also nice if limes are not at their best

Serving Suggestions

Slice grilled chicken and pile onto salads stuff into pita bread with veggies or dice it for burrito bowls It is perfect paired with corn rice or grilled vegetables For a light dinner I like to serve it with a big green salad and roasted sweet potatoes

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Grilled Chicken and American Cookouts

Grilled chicken breasts are a timeless favorite at American BBQs The tradition of seasoning then charring chicken over flames goes way back in home kitchens and cookouts alike I love how this method combines classic flavors with bright fresh finishing touches It always feels like summer

Recipe FAQs

→ How do I keep chicken breasts juicy on the grill?

Let the chicken rest at room temperature before grilling and avoid overcooking. Rest after grilling so juices redistribute.

→ Which spices work best for grilled chicken breast?

A combination of chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper delivers bold flavor.

→ What internal temperature should chicken breast reach?

Chicken breast should reach 165°F at the thickest point. Remove from heat at 160°F and let it rest to finish cooking.

→ Can I use a grill pan instead of an outdoor grill?

Yes, a grill pan can be used indoors for similar results. Preheat and cook as you would on a traditional grill.

→ How should I serve grilled chicken breast?

Slice and serve topped with fresh lime juice and chopped cilantro for a bright finish and extra flavor.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.