Koo Koo Roo Chicken Recipe
Koo Koo Roo Chicken Recipe features marinated grilled chicken, known for its tender, flavorful taste. The chicken is typically seasoned with a blend of herbs and spices, then cooked over a flame to achieve a crispy exterior while remaining juicy inside. It's often served with sides like rice or vegetables.
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Baking dish or roasting pan
- basting brush
- Grill or oven
- Meat thermometer
- Tongs
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (or thighs for more flavor)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice freshly squeezed
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika adds a beautiful smoky flavor
- 1 teaspoon salt adjust to your taste
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme or 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 tablespoon honey optional for a touch of sweetness
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard adds a nice tang
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
Instructions
Prepare the Marinade:
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, thyme, honey, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar. This mixture is what will give your chicken that irresistible flavor.
Marinate the Chicken:
- Place the chicken breasts (or thighs) in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure it’s well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 1 hours 5 minutes. If you want to plan ahead, marinate the chicken overnight for an even deeper flavor.
Preheat the Grill:
- Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. If using an oven, preheat it to 375°F (190°C).
Grill the Chicken:
- Once the grill is hot, place the marinated chicken on it and cook for about 10-15 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). If using the oven, bake the chicken on a lined baking sheet for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Let the Chicken Rest:
- Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the grill or oven and let it rest for 15 minutes. This helps retain its juices.
Slice and Serve:
- Slice the chicken into strips or serve it whole, depending on your preference. Serve it alongside your favorite sides like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple salad.
Notes
1. Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Feel free to tweak the seasoning based on your preferences. If you like more tang, add extra lemon juice or vinegar; for a sweeter touch, increase the honey. The marinade is versatile, so make it your own!
2. Rest the Chicken After Cooking: Always let the chicken rest for 15 minutes after grilling or baking. This helps lock in the juices, making the chicken more tender and flavorful.
3. Meal Prep Friendly: This chicken stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days, making it perfect for meal prepping. Slice it for salads, wraps, or serve it with different sides throughout the week.