Why You’ll Love This
Grilled Chicken Paillard is a light, elegant dish featuring thinly pounded chicken breasts grilled quickly to juicy perfection. The thin cut cooks fast, developing a delicious char while staying tender and flavorful. Often served with a simple salad or fresh lemon, this dish is perfect for a healthy lunch or a quick yet impressive dinner.
Ingredients
● 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
● 2 tablespoons olive oil
● 2 tablespoons lemon juice
● 2 cloves garlic, minced
● 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
● ½ teaspoon salt
● ¼ teaspoon black pepper
● 1 teaspoon fresh thyme or parsley, chopped
Optional Salad (Traditional Pairing)
● 2 cups arugula or mixed greens
● 1 tablespoon olive oil
● 1 teaspoon lemon juice
● Pinch of salt and pepper
● Shaved Parmesan cheese
Preparation Instructions
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Prepare the Chicken
Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper. -
Pound the Chicken
Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, pound the chicken until it is about ¼ inch thick. -
Prepare the Marinade
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, and herbs. -
Marinate the Chicken
Rub the marinade over the chicken and let it rest for 15–20 minutes. -
Preheat the Grill
Heat the grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. -
Grill the Chicken
Place the chicken on the grill and cook for 2–3 minutes per side until lightly charred and fully cooked. -
Rest the Chicken
Remove from the grill and let the chicken rest for 3 minutes. -
Prepare the Salad (Optional)
Toss arugula with olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. -
Serve
Place grilled chicken on a plate and top with the arugula salad and shaved Parmesan.
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
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Meat mallet or rolling pin
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Cutting board
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Mixing bowl
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Grill or grill pan
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Tongs
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Measuring spoons
Tips
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Pound evenly: Even thickness ensures quick, uniform cooking.
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Don’t overcook: Thin chicken cooks quickly, so watch closely.
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Add brightness: A squeeze of fresh lemon right before serving enhances flavor.
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Try different herbs: Rosemary, basil, or oregano work beautifully.
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Use a hot grill: This helps create a flavorful sear.
Serving Suggestions
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Serve with arugula salad and shaved Parmesan.
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Pair with roasted vegetables or grilled asparagus.
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Add to a sandwich or wrap.
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Serve with quinoa, couscous, or light pasta salad.
Storage
Refrigerator:
Store leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer:
Freeze cooked chicken for up to 2 months.
Reheating:
Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat or microwave until warmed through.
FAQs
1. What does “paillard” mean?
Paillard refers to a thinly pounded piece of meat that cooks quickly.
2. Can I cook chicken paillard in a pan instead of grilling?
Yes. A hot skillet works perfectly and creates a great sear.
3. Why pound the chicken thin?
It ensures fast, even cooking and keeps the chicken tender.
Conclusion
Grilled Chicken Paillard is a simple yet refined dish that highlights fresh flavors and perfectly cooked chicken. Quick to prepare and wonderfully versatile, it’s an excellent recipe for both weeknight dinners and light, elegant meals.
Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)
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Calories: 260 kcal
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Protein: 36 g
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Carbohydrates: 2 g
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Fat: 11 g
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Fiber: 0 g
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Sodium: 320 mg
Nutrition values may vary depending on ingredients used. 🍗🥗✨
