Grilled chicken is a classic favorite—juicy, flavorful, and perfect for any meal. But what if you don’t have an outdoor grill? No worries! You can achieve that same delicious grilled taste right in your oven. In this article, I’ll walk you through how to make grilled chicken in the oven with easy steps, tips, and tricks to get juicy, tender, and crispy chicken every time.
Why Oven-Grilled Chicken?
Oven grilling is a fantastic alternative to outdoor grilling. It’s convenient, quick, and works year-round regardless of the weather. Plus, you get the smoky, charred flavor and crispy edges without the hassle of lighting a grill. Whether you want chicken breasts, thighs, or smaller pieces, the oven can deliver mouthwatering results.
What You’ll Need
– Chicken pieces (breasts, thighs, or drumsticks), skin removed if preferred
– Olive oil or avocado oil
– Garlic powder and onion powder
– Lemon juice
– Yogurt or buttermilk (optional, for marinade)
– Salt and pepper
– Fresh herbs like parsley or rosemary (optional, for garnish)
– A cast-iron skillet or a rimmed baking sheet
Step-by-Step Guide to Oven-Grilled Chicken
1. Prepare the Chicken
Start by cutting your chicken into evenly sized pieces if using larger cuts. This ensures they cook evenly. Remove skin and excess fat if you want a leaner dish. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels to help the seasoning stick and to get a nice sear.
2. Make a Flavorful Marinade
In a bowl, mix garlic powder, onion powder, lemon juice, and yogurt to create a tangy, flavorful marinade. Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then toss it in the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors soak in. This step is optional but highly recommended for juicy, tender chicken.
3. Preheat Your Oven
Set your oven to broil on high and move the rack to the second position from the top. This placement is close enough to the heat source to grill the chicken but not so close that it burns instantly.
4. Prepare Your Pan
Lightly grease a cast-iron skillet or a baking sheet with oil. For best results, warm the pan in the oven before adding the chicken. This helps the chicken sear quickly and keeps it juicy inside.
5. Grill the Chicken
Arrange the chicken pieces on the hot pan, leaving space between each piece to allow air circulation and crisping. Place the pan in the oven and broil for about 5 minutes on one side.
6. Flip and Finish Cooking
Carefully remove the pan and turn the chicken pieces over. Broil for another 5 minutes. Keep an eye on the chicken to avoid overcooking—total cooking time is usually around 10 minutes for small pieces. Larger pieces may need a few extra minutes. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
7. Rest and Serve
Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking to lock in the juices. Garnish with fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon for a bright finish. Serve hot with your favorite sides or use in tacos, salads, or sandwiches.
Tips for Perfect Oven-Grilled Chicken
– Use even-sized pieces to ensure uniform cooking.
– Marinate overnight if you have time for deeper flavor.
– Don’t overcrowd the pan; give each piece room to crisp.
– Use a meat thermometer to check doneness without cutting into the chicken.
– Add oil just before grilling to keep the marinade from burning.
– Try different seasonings like smoked paprika, cumin, or fresh herbs for variety.
– Rest the chicken after cooking to keep it juicy.
Variations to Try
– Spicy grilled chicken: Add chili powder or cayenne to your marinade.
– Herb-infused: Mix fresh thyme, rosemary, or oregano into the marinade.
– Creamy yogurt marinade: Use Greek yogurt with garlic and lemon for tenderizing.
– Citrus twist: Add orange or lime juice for a zesty flavor boost.
Making grilled chicken in the oven is a straightforward way to enjoy a delicious, healthy meal without needing an outdoor grill. With simple ingredients and a little patience, you can create juicy, tender chicken with crispy edges that everyone will love.
Enjoy your homemade oven-grilled chicken!