For Easy Summer Gatherings
There is something about summer that makes simple meals feel extra special. Whether it’s a backyard BBQ, a family cookout, a picnic, or a casual dinner on the patio, our Abstinent Kitchen grilled marinated chicken is one of those dependable recipes that works for almost any occasion.
The best part? It’s easy to prepare ahead of time. A simple marinade adds incredible flavor while keeping the chicken juicy and tender on the grill. Once it’s cooked, you have a versatile protein ready for the entire week.
Make extra and use the leftovers in salads, lettuce wraps, grain bowls, atop your Abstinent Pizza, or alongside grilled vegetables for quick abstinent meals during busy weekdays. Having prepared food on hand can make staying committed to your food plan feel much simpler and less stressful.
This recipe is also perfect for sharing. You can bring it to a summer potluck or serve at your own gathering knowing there s something satisfying and nourishing available for everyone to enjoy.
Summer events do not have to mean feeling out of control around food. With a little preparation, they can become opportunities to enjoy connection, fresh air, and delicious meals that support your recovery and your peace of mind.
Grilled Marinated Chicken
- Total Time: 4 hours +, depending on marinate time
- Yield: 6-8 1x
- Diet: Abstinent
Description
This easy grilled marinated chicken recipe is perfect for summer BBQs, potlucks, and weekly meal prep. A flavorful, simple protein option for busy summer days and abstinent living.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds of chicken breast, raw
- Zest and juice of one lemon
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- 2 fresh whole garlic cloves, peeled
- 1 Tbsp. dijon mustard
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
- 1/2 tsp. onion powder
- 1–2 Tbsp. fresh herbs of choice: thyme, or dill, or tarragon, or basil, or cilantro
- pinch of crushed red pepper (optional)
Instructions
- Rinse chicken; trim if necessary. Cut into desired number of pieces. Place chicken in a gallon sized Ziploc-style bag or Tupperware-style container with an airtight lid.
- Combine all remaining ingredients in a bowl or small blender container; blend with an immersion blender or blender attachment until smooth and emulsified.
- Pour the marinade over the chicken, and seal. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- When ready to cook, preheat your grill. Place chicken on the grill, and cook 5-7 minutes per side. Don’t turn the chicken more than once or twice. We want those gorgeous grill marks!
- Cook until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
- Allow chicken to rest about 5-10 minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute. This will ensure a moist, tender chicken.
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- DO NOT skip the resting step; this keeps the chicken juicy.
- You can vary the flavors: instead of lemon, try lime with fresh cilantro for a mexican-inspired flavor.
- Use your favorite fresh herbs from the garden. Don’t have fresh herbs? Just use 1-2 tsp. dried in place of the 1 TBSP fresh measurement.
© 2026 Intentional Recovery Foundation dba Abstinent Kitchen. All Rights Reserved. Abstinent Kitchen is not affiliated with and does not represent Overeaters Anonymous or any other recovery program or retreat. Intentional Recovery Foundation is a 501(c)3 organization; our profits support local recovery community programs. Content on this website and any affiliated pages or platforms is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult your healthcare provider for personalized medical guidance.
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