Grilled Marinated Chicken
Juicy grilled chicken breasts marinated in Italian dressing and buttermilk offer a flavorful, tangy taste, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings with a Mediterranean flair.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix Italian salad dressing and buttermilk in a bowl.
- Place chicken breasts in a Ziploc bag or flat container with a lid and pour the mixture over the chicken.
- Refrigerate for several hours or overnight, turning at least once to ensure even coverage.
- Preheat the grill and cook the chicken for 20 minutes, turning as needed until fully cooked.
Tips & Substitutions
For optimal flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 4 hours, but overnight is best. If you don't have buttermilk, you can substitute with plain yogurt or milk mixed with a bit of vinegar. Adjust the seasoning in the Italian dressing if you prefer a stronger flavor. For extra smoky flavor, add some smoked paprika to the marinade.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the grilled marinated chicken with a side of fresh salad or grilled vegetables for a light meal. It pairs beautifully with Artichoke Heart Rice or can be sliced and added to wraps or sandwiches. For a heartier option, consider serving it alongside roasted potatoes or pasta dishes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also use a microwave, but be cautious to avoid drying it out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grilled Marinated Chicken contains roughly 269 calories, with 6g protein, 6g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is a good source of protein (13% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 639mg per serving (28% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of dressing for marinating?
Yes, you can experiment with other dressings like ranch, balsamic vinaigrette, or even homemade marinades. Just ensure that the dressing has a good balance of acid and oil to effectively tenderize and flavor the chicken.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (75°C) when fully cooked. You can check this using a meat thermometer. Additionally, the juices should run clear when you cut into the thickest part of the breast.
Can I freeze the marinated chicken?
Absolutely! You can freeze the marinated chicken before grilling. Just place the chicken and marinade in a freezer-safe bag and store it for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before grilling.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).