Grilled chicken is a delicious, healthy, and flavourful dish that can be enjoyed with a variety of sides. However, getting soft, juicy, and tender grilled chicken at home can be tricky if you don’t know the right techniques.
This step-by-step guide will show you how to make perfectly grilled soft chicken using simple ingredients—perfect for family meals or gatherings!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✅ Juicy & Tender – No more dry or tough chicken!
✅ Easy to Make – Simple marinade and grilling technique.
✅ Full of Flavour – Infused with delicious African-inspired spices.
✅ Perfect for Any Meal – Enjoy with rice, plantain, salads, or wraps!
Ingredients
🥩 Chicken Pieces (Thighs, Drumsticks, or Boneless Breast)
🛢️ 2 tbsp Vegetable Oil (or Olive Oil for extra moisture)
🍋 Juice of 1 Lemon (for tenderness & flavour)
🧄 3 cloves Garlic (Minced)
🧅 1 tsp Onion Powder
🌶️ 1 tsp Paprika or Cayenne Pepper (Adjust for spice level)
🌿 1 tsp Thyme or Mixed Herbs
🧂 1 tsp Salt
🖤 ½ tsp Black Pepper
🫙 1 tbsp Soy Sauce (Optional – for deeper umami flavour)
👉 Extra tip: If you like sweet & spicy grilled chicken, add 1 tbsp of honey or brown sugar to the marinade!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
🔹 Wash the chicken pieces and pat them dry with a kitchen towel.
🔹 Make small cuts (slits) on the surface to allow the marinade to soak in.
Step 2: Make the Marinade
🔹 In a bowl, mix vegetable oil, lemon juice, garlic, onion powder, paprika, thyme, salt, black pepper, and soy sauce.
🔹 Stir well until the marinade is smooth
Step 3: Marinate the Chicken
🔹 Coat the chicken thoroughly with the marinade.
🔹 Cover and let it marinate for at least 2 hours (overnight is best for maximum flavour).
Step 4: Grill the Chicken
🔥 Oven Method:
1️⃣ Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
2️⃣ Place the marinated chicken on a grill rack or baking tray.
3️⃣ Grill for 30-40 minutes, flipping halfway for even cooking.
4️⃣ Baste with extra marinade while grilling to keep it moist.
🔥 Charcoal/BBQ Grill Method:
1️⃣ Heat your charcoal or gas grill to medium-high heat.
2️⃣ Place the chicken on the grill and cook for 15-20 minutes per side.
3️⃣ Brush with leftover marinade or oil for extra juiciness.
4️⃣ Grill until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!
🥗 Serve hot with Jollof rice, fried rice, plantain, coleslaw, or wraps!
🔥 Add a spicy dipping sauce for an extra kick!
Pro Tips for Soft, Juicy Chicken
✔️ Use Thighs or Drumsticks – They have more fat and stay juicier than chicken breast.
✔️ Don’t Skip the Marinating Time – The longer, the better! Overnight is best.
✔️ Baste While Grilling – Brush on oil or marinade to prevent dryness.
✔️ Don’t Overcook – Use a meat thermometer; chicken is done at 75°C (165°F).
Health Benefits of Grilled Chicken
💪 High in Protein – Great for muscle building and energy.
🥑 Low in Fat – A healthy alternative to fried chicken.
🌿 Rich in Vitamins & Minerals – Contains iron, zinc, and B vitamins.
❤️ Heart-Friendly – Cooking with less oil makes it a healthier choice.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
🔹 How do I make grilled chicken without an oven or grill?
👉 You can pan-sear the chicken on a stovetop using a heavy pan or grill pan.
🔹 How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
👉 The safest way is to use a thermometer—75°C (165°F) is fully cooked.
🔹 Can I freeze marinated chicken for later?
👉 Yes! Store it in an airtight bag in the freezer for up to 3 months.
🔹 What’s the best side dish for grilled chicken?
👉 Jollof rice, fried rice, grilled plantain, coleslaw, or roasted sweet potatoes!
Where to Buy Fresh African Ingredients
For the best quality African spices, marinades, and frozen chicken, shop at Mama’s Edibles! 🛍✨
Get Soft Chicken HERE
Get vegetable oil HERE