Craving that amazing Carrabba's Italian Grill flavor but don't have the time or energy for a restaurant trip? Then you're in luck! This recipe brings the deliciousness of their grilled chicken right to your kitchen. It's a quick dinner idea perfect for busy weeknights, and it’s surprisingly easy to make. Get ready to experience homemade cooking at its finest, with a dish that's both healthy and incredibly flavorful. This is one of those best recipes you'll want to keep coming back to!
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes for a little heat
Instructions:
Get Started:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). This simple marinade is the key to that incredible Carrabba's flavor.
Marinate the Chicken:
- Add the chicken breasts to the bowl and make sure they're fully coated in the marinade. For best results, let them marinate for at least 30 minutes, or even better, for a couple of hours in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to really penetrate the chicken.
Grill Time:
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Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Once hot, place the chicken breasts on the grill grates.
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Grill for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure it’s cooked perfectly. Avoid overcooking, as this can make the chicken dry.
Serve and Enjoy:
- Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful chicken breast.
Tips for Success:
- Don't overcrowd the grill: Leave some space between the chicken breasts to ensure even cooking.
- Adjust the marinade: Feel free to customize the marinade to your liking. Add a touch of honey for extra sweetness or different herbs like thyme or rosemary.
- Use a meat thermometer: This is the best way to guarantee your chicken is cooked to perfection and safe to eat.
Variations:
- Lemon Herb Chicken: Increase the lemon juice to 3 tablespoons and add a tablespoon of fresh chopped herbs like parsley or chives.
- Spicy Grilled Chicken: Add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the marinade for a spicier kick.
- Mediterranean Grilled Chicken: Add 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese and a tablespoon of chopped fresh oregano to the marinade for a Mediterranean twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 2-3g
This easy recipe provides a delicious and healthy meal the whole family will love. It’s a fantastic example of simple, homemade cooking that delivers restaurant-quality results. Serve it with your favorite sides – roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or even some pasta – for a complete and satisfying dinner. Enjoy!