Grilled chicken is a classic favorite—juicy, flavorful, and perfect for so many meals. But what if you don’t have an outdoor grill? No worries! You can easily make delicious grilled chicken right on your stove using a grill pan or cast iron skillet. This method is quick, convenient, and yields tender, tasty chicken every time. Here’s your friendly, step-by-step guide on how to make grilled chicken on the stove.
What You’ll Need
– Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thinly sliced chicken work best for even cooking.
– Marinade/Seasoning: Olive oil, lemon or lime juice, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and fresh herbs like basil, oregano, parsley, or cilantro.
– Equipment: A grill pan or cast iron skillet, tongs, and a meat tenderizer or rolling pin (optional).
Step 1: Prep Your Chicken
Start by patting your chicken dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps the chicken get a nice sear and grill marks on the pan. If your chicken breasts are thick, pound them to an even thickness of about 1-2 inches using a meat tenderizer or rolling pin. This ensures they cook evenly and stay juicy.
If you want to butterfly your chicken breasts (cut horizontally and open like a book), that works well too, especially for thinner pieces.
Step 2: Marinate for Flavor and Tenderness
Marinating your chicken adds flavor and helps tenderize the meat. Whisk together a simple marinade with olive oil, lemon juice (or lime juice), garlic powder, salt, pepper, and fresh herbs like cilantro or basil. Toss the chicken in the marinade and let it sit for at least 15 minutes. For deeper flavor, marinate up to a few hours in the fridge.
Step 3: Heat Your Grill Pan or Skillet
Place your grill pan or cast iron skillet on the stove over medium to medium-high heat. Let it get hot before adding the chicken. You can brush the pan with a high smoke point oil like avocado oil or olive oil to prevent sticking and help create a golden crust.
Step 4: Grill the Chicken
Place the chicken on the hot grill pan. Don’t move it around—let it cook undisturbed for 2 to 5 minutes per side, depending on thickness. You want to see nice grill marks and a golden-brown crust. Flip carefully with tongs and cook the other side until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safety and juiciness.
Avoid overcooking, as this can dry out the chicken. Cooking times vary but usually range from 4 to 10 minutes total.
Step 5: Let It Rest
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the pan and let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, making the chicken more tender and flavorful.
Tips for Perfect Stove-Top Grilled Chicken
– Use thin or evenly pounded chicken breasts to ensure quick, even cooking without drying out.
– Don’t skip the marinade—even a quick 15-30 minute soak adds great flavor and moisture.
– High heat is key to get those beautiful grill marks and a tasty crust.
– Use a meat thermometer to check doneness and avoid overcooking.
– Avoid adding sugary sauces too early as they can burn; add them at the end if desired.
– Fresh herbs and citrus zest brighten up the flavor and add freshness.
– If you don’t have a grill pan, a cast iron skillet works well for searing and grilling on the stove.
Flavor Variations to Try
– Lemon Herb: Olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, oregano, parsley, salt, and pepper.
– Spicy Cilantro Lime: Olive oil, lime juice, garlic powder, crushed red pepper flakes, cilantro, salt, and pepper.
– Smoky Paprika: Olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
– Garlic Basil: Olive oil, minced garlic, fresh basil, salt, and pepper.
Marinate your chicken in any of these for 15 minutes to a few hours for a delicious twist.
Serving Suggestions
Grilled stove-top chicken is incredibly versatile. Serve it sliced over:
– Fresh salads
– Grain bowls with rice or quinoa
– Sandwiches or wraps
– Tacos or fajitas
– Pasta dishes
It also pairs wonderfully with grilled veggies or roasted potatoes for a complete meal.
Making grilled chicken on the stove is a fantastic way to enjoy all the flavors of outdoor grilling anytime. With just a few simple ingredients and a grill pan, you can create juicy, flavorful chicken perfect for any occasion.
Enjoy your meal!