Grilled Buttermilk Chicken

Grilled Buttermilk Chicken

1 servings
I created this recipe years ago after one of our farmers market customers, a chef, shared the idea of marinating chicken in buttermilk. The chicken is easy to prepare and always turns out moist and delicious! I bruise the thyme sprigs by twisting them before adding them to the buttermilk mixture; this tends to release the oils in the leaves and flavor the chicken better. —Sue Gronholz, Beaver Dam, Wisconsin

Ingredients

  • 1-1/2 cups buttermilk
  • 4 fresh thyme sprigs
  • 4 garlic cloves

    halved

  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 12 boneless skinless chicken breast halves

    about 4-1/2 pounds

Directions

  1. 1

    Place the buttermilk, thyme, garlic and salt in a large bowl or shallow dish. Add chicken and turn to coat. Refrigerate 8 hours or overnight, turning occasionally.

  2. 2

    Drain chicken, discarding marinade. Grill, covered, over medium heat until a thermometer reads 165°, 5-7 minutes per side.

Grilled Buttermilk Chicken

Grilled Buttermilk Chicken

1 servings

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About this Recipe

Craving grilled chicken that’s always incredibly moist and bursting with flavor? This Grilled Buttermilk Chicken recipe delivers on that promise, transforming simple chicken breasts into a tender, juicy delight that’s perfect for any occasion.

Why This Recipe Works

The magic behind this recipe lies in the simple yet effective buttermilk marinade. Buttermilk naturally tenderizes the chicken, ensuring each piece stays succulent and never dry. A key technique that sets this recipe apart is bruising the fresh thyme sprigs before adding them to the marinade. This simple twist releases the aromatic oils within the leaves, infusing the chicken with a deeper, more profound herbal flavor that elevates every bite.

What to Expect

Prepare yourself for grilled chicken that’s consistently moist and incredibly flavorful, with a subtle tang from the buttermilk complemented by fragrant notes of fresh thyme and garlic. The chicken emerges from the grill with a beautiful char and a tender interior, making for an effortlessly delicious meal. This recipe is designed to be easy to prepare, ensuring a rewarding cooking experience and a truly satisfying outcome.

Customization & Variations

While fresh thyme is central to this recipe's unique flavor, you can experiment with other fresh herbs like rosemary or oregano for a different aromatic profile. If you prefer a more intense garlic flavor, consider gently crushing the garlic cloves further before adding them to the buttermilk. For a touch of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes could be added to the marinade.

Serving & Context

This versatile grilled chicken is a fantastic centerpiece for summer barbecues, a healthy option for weeknight dinners, or a flavorful addition to your meal prep rotation. Serve it alongside a vibrant salad, grilled vegetables, or your favorite grain for a complete and satisfying meal.

Frequently Asked Questions