Grilled chicken

Grilled chicken with garlic and spices – a simple and delicious recipe, perfect for a summer day spent in nature!

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Marinating time: 12 hours
Cooking time: 30-40 minutes
Total: 12 hours and 50 minutes
Number of servings: 4

If you are a cooking enthusiast, you surely know that the aroma of grilled meat brings a sense of joy and relaxation. This grilled chicken recipe is perfect for a day spent on the green grass, alongside friends and family. The chicken, marinated with garlic and spices, becomes juicy and full of flavor, and the aroma that spreads in the air will make you feel at home, even in the middle of nature.

Necessary ingredients:
- 2 small chickens (about 1.5 kg in total)
- 4-5 cloves of garlic
- 100 ml of olive oil (or sunflower oil)
- Spices of your choice (salt, pepper, paprika, herbs de Provence, or any other spices you prefer)

Ingredient details:
- Chicken: Choose quality chicken, preferably raised organically. They have tastier and healthier meat, without additives.
- Garlic: It is a magical ingredient, not only for its intense flavor but also for its health benefits. Garlic is known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
- Spices: Use fresh spices if you have them. You can experiment with different combinations to achieve unique flavors.

Step by step – How to prepare grilled chicken:

1. Preparing the chicken:
- Wash the chickens well under a stream of cold water.
- Cut them in half along the breast line, using a sharp knife. This will allow for even marinating and will help the meat cook faster and more evenly on the grill.

2. Marinating:
- In a large bowl, add the olive oil, crushed garlic, salt, pepper, and desired spices. Mix well to combine the flavors.
- Place the chickens in the marinade, ensuring they are well coated with the mixture. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it sit in the fridge for 12 hours. This step is essential as marinating will intensify the flavors and make the meat more tender.

3. Preparing the grill:
- Before you start cooking, make sure the grill is well heated. You can use a charcoal grill or an electric one, depending on your preferences.
- If using a charcoal grill, let the coals burn until they turn white and are covered with ash.

4. Cooking the chicken:
- Place the chicken halves on the grill, skin side down, to achieve a crispy and golden crust. Cook for about 15-20 minutes, then flip the chickens to the other side.
- Continue cooking for another 15-20 minutes, until the meat is well done and the juices run clear. A good method to check is to use a meat thermometer – the internal temperature should be around 75°C.

5. Serving:
- Once the chicken is cooked, let it rest for a few minutes before cutting. This will help the juices distribute evenly in the meat.
- Serve it with garlic sauce, a fresh salad, or grilled vegetables. You can also add fries or mashed potatoes for a complete menu.

Tips and useful advice:
- If you want extra flavor, you can add lemon juice or balsamic vinegar to the marinade. The acidity will help tenderize the meat.
- You can experiment with different types of oil to add a distinct note. Extra virgin olive oil offers a Mediterranean taste, while sesame oil will bring an Asian flavor.
- Don’t forget to check the grill every few minutes to prevent the meat from burning.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use frozen chicken?: Yes, but make sure to completely thaw them before marinating.
- What other spices can I add?: Try specific chicken spices or even hot sauces if you like bolder flavors.
- How can I store leftover chicken?: Cooked chicken can be stored in the fridge in an airtight container for 3-4 days.

Ideal combinations:
This grilled chicken recipe pairs perfectly with a cold beer or a light white wine. It also goes wonderfully with a summer cocktail, such as mojito or sangria.

So, prepare your grill, gather your friends, and enjoy this simple yet flavorful recipe! Not only will you savor a delicious meal, but you will also create unforgettable memories outdoors. Enjoy your meal!