If you are craving a delicious, flavorful, and incredibly simple grilled chicken dish, then this Garlic Dijon Grilled Chicken Recipe is going to become your new best friend in the kitchen. Imagine tender chicken breasts infused with the tangy richness of Dijon mustard, the creaminess of mayonnaise, and the bold kick of fresh garlic, all perfectly seared over a hot grill. This dish is not only a crowd-pleaser but also surprisingly easy to whip up, making it perfect for family dinners or casual weekend barbecues. Once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s a favorite for so many.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Garlic Dijon Grilled Chicken Recipe calls for a handful of simple yet essential ingredients that work together to create a gorgeous balance of flavors. Each ingredient plays its part, whether adding tang, creaminess, or that garlicky punch that makes the chicken sing.
- Chicken breasts (4, 6–7 oz. each): Choose evenly sized breasts for uniform cooking and juiciness.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper: Basic seasonings that enhance the natural chicken flavor.
- Minced fresh parsley (1 Tbsp, optional): Adds a fresh, herbaceous note and beautiful color garnish.
- Dijon mustard (1/4 cup): Key for the tangy, slightly sharp flavor that defines this recipe.
- Mayonnaise (1/4 cup): Provides creaminess and helps keep the chicken tender and moist.
- Minced fresh garlic (1 1/2 tsp): Brings a bold, aromatic impact that elevates the entire dish.
How to Make Garlic Dijon Grilled Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Grill
Start by heating your gas grill to a medium-high heat, aiming for about 425°F (220°C). This temperature is perfect for locking in the juices and creating those irresistible grill marks that make this chicken look as good as it tastes. A properly hot grill ensures a quick sear and keeps the chicken moist inside.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
In a small bowl, mix together the Dijon mustard, mayonnaise, and minced garlic until all the ingredients are well combined. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your taste. This sauce is the heart of the Garlic Dijon Grilled Chicken Recipe – it coats the chicken with creamy tang and savory garlic notes that are totally unforgettable.
Step 3: Prepare the Chicken
For even cooking and the best texture, pound the thicker parts of your chicken breasts with a meat mallet until the thickness is uniform. Then, generously brush the top side of each breast with the prepared sauce. This step ensures that every bite is packed with that delicious garlic-Dijon flavor.
Step 4: Start Grilling
Place the sauce-coated side of the chicken breasts directly on the hot grill. Immediately brush the other side with more of the Dijon sauce to lock in the flavors on both sides. This dual application keeps the chicken moist and richly flavored throughout the grilling process.
Step 5: Grill Until Perfect
Cover your grill and cook the chicken for about 4 minutes on each side, turning only once to get those perfect grill marks. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). This step ensures a juicy center with a beautifully caramelized exterior.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once grilled, sprinkle minced fresh parsley over the chicken for a touch of fresh color and herbal brightness. Serve immediately while warm to truly enjoy the vibrant, tangy, and garlicky flavors that make this Garlic Dijon Grilled Chicken Recipe such a standout meal.
How to Serve Garlic Dijon Grilled Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley adds the perfect finishing touch, offering a burst of green color and subtle herbal freshness. For an added layer of flavor, you might also consider a squeeze of lemon or a light drizzle of extra Dijon mustard on the side.
Side Dishes
This grilled chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Think crisp garden salads, grilled vegetables like asparagus or zucchini, buttery mashed potatoes, or a fluffy rice pilaf. The rich and tangy flavor of the chicken complements both light and hearty sides seamlessly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, slice the grilled chicken and layer it over a bed of mixed greens or stuff it into warm pita pockets with fresh tomatoes and cucumbers. Turning this Garlic Dijon Grilled Chicken Recipe into a tasty sandwich or salad adds variety and keeps the meal exciting.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Allow leftover Garlic Dijon Grilled Chicken to cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to keep it fresh and flavorful for quick meals or snacks.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked grilled chicken by wrapping each piece tightly in plastic wrap and then placing it in a freezer-safe bag or container. It will keep well for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the chicken in a microwave or oven, being careful not to overcook and dry it out. Covering it while reheating helps maintain moisture, ensuring every bite stays juicy and delicious.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs work wonderfully with this recipe and stay even juicier due to their higher fat content. Just adjust grilling time slightly to ensure they cook through properly.
Do I need to marinate the chicken for a long time?
One of the best parts about this Garlic Dijon Grilled Chicken Recipe is how quickly it comes together. While you don’t need to marinate for hours, brushing the sauce immediately before grilling allows the flavors to shine without any wait time.
Can I bake this chicken instead of grilling?
Yes, you can bake the chicken in the oven at 400°F (204°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. While you won’t get the grill marks, the flavor stays just as delicious.
Is mayonnaise necessary in the sauce?
Mayonnaise adds creaminess and helps keep the chicken moist, but if you prefer, you can substitute it with Greek yogurt for a lighter option without sacrificing texture.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The safest and most reliable way is to use a meat thermometer. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part.
Final Thoughts
This Garlic Dijon Grilled Chicken Recipe is a shining example of how simple ingredients and straightforward techniques can create an extraordinary meal. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing friends at your next cookout. I truly encourage you to give it a try and enjoy the delicious harmony of garlic, Dijon, and grilled perfection in every bite.
Print
Garlic Dijon Grilled Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 13 minutes
- Total Time: 18 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Garlic Dijon Grilled Chicken recipe offers a juicy, flavorful twist on classic grilled chicken breasts. Marinated in a tangy Dijon mustard and garlic sauce, then grilled to perfection, this dish is perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner that serves 4.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 (6 – 7 oz.) chicken breasts
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 Tbsp minced fresh parsley, optional
Sauce
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 1/2 tsp minced fresh garlic
Instructions
- Preheat Grill: Preheat a gas grill over medium-high heat to approximately 425°F (220°C) to ensure a hot cooking surface for a perfect sear on the chicken.
- Prepare Sauce: In a small mixing bowl, combine Dijon mustard, mayonnaise, and minced fresh garlic. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, stirring until well blended.
- Prepare Chicken: Use a meat mallet to pound thicker parts of the chicken breasts to an even thickness for uniform cooking. Brush the top side of each chicken breast generously with the mustard sauce.
- Start Grilling: Place the chicken breasts on the preheated grill sauce-coated side down. Immediately brush the uncoated side with the remaining mustard sauce to lock in flavor.
- Grill Until Done: Cover the grill and cook the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part, about 4 minutes per side, turning only once to ensure even cooking and grill marks.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle minced fresh parsley over the grilled chicken if desired, and serve warm for a flavorful and satisfying meal.
Notes
- For even cooking, pound chicken breasts to an even thickness prior to grilling.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness to avoid undercooking or drying out.
- Mayonnaise in the sauce helps keep chicken moist and adds richness.
- Fresh parsley garnish is optional but adds freshness and color.
- Serve with grilled vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
