A grilled chicken platter holds a special place in my heart. Growing up, I spent countless afternoons in my grandma’s kitchen, watching her turn simple ingredients into something magical. The sizzling sound of chicken on the grill, the rich aroma of herbs and spices blending in the air—it’s a feeling I’ve carried with me ever since. The grilled chicken platter became a staple in our home, often served at family gatherings where everyone would sit around, sharing stories and laughter, all while savoring that delicious, smoky flavor.
Even now, cooking isn’t just about preparing a meal—it’s about recreating those moments. As someone who loves experimenting with new flavors, I find that the beauty of a grilled chicken platter lies in its versatility. Whether it’s for a casual dinner or a larger event, this dish never fails to bring people together. It’s comforting, it’s familiar, and most importantly, it’s a dish that reminds me of home
Table Of Contents
Table of Contents
Grilled Chicken Platter: A Perfect Meal for Any Occasion
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Grilled chicken platter is a flavorful and easy meal perfect for family dinners, parties, and gatherings. Serve it with your choice of sides like rice, roasted vegetables, or grilled zucchini boats.
Ingredients
Chicken breasts (boneless, skinless) – 10-12 pieces
Olive oil – 1/4 cup
Lemon juice – 2 tablespoons
Garlic – 3 cloves, minced
Fresh herbs (thyme, rosemary, or oregano) – 2 tablespoons, chopped
Salt and pepper – to taste
Paprika – 1 teaspoon (for a smoky flavor)
Honey or mustard – optional, for glaze
Instructions
1. 1. Prep the Chicken: Start by rinsing the chicken breasts under cold water and patting them dry with a paper towel. Place them in a shallow dish.
2. 2. Make the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, chopped herbs, paprika, salt, and pepper. Pour the marinade over the chicken breasts and ensure each piece is fully coated. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (preferably overnight).
3. 3. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F). If you’re using a charcoal grill, ensure the coals are evenly distributed. For a gas grill, allow it to fully heat up.
4. 4. Grill the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts on the grill and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Flip the chicken halfway through the cooking process to ensure even grilling.
5. 5. Optional Glaze: During the last few minutes of grilling, brush the chicken with honey or mustard (or both) for a sweet and tangy glaze. This step is optional but adds an extra layer of flavor.
6. 6. Serve: Once the chicken is grilled to perfection, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. Slice it up and arrange it on a platter, ready to serve with your choice of sides.
Notes
You can substitute the chicken breasts with thighs or drumsticks, depending on your preference. If you’re using bone-in pieces, make sure to adjust cooking times accordingly.
For added flavor, try marinating the chicken overnight.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilled
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: grilled chicken, grilled chicken platter, chicken recipe
The Story & Introduction to Grilled Chicken Platters
A grilled chicken platter is more than just a meal—it’s an experience. I’ll never forget the first time I really grasped how simple ingredients could come together to create something extraordinary. It was one of those lazy Sunday afternoons in my grandma’s kitchen, the smell of grilled chicken filling the air as she tossed it on the grill, and I was mesmerized by the crackling sound it made. The beauty of a grilled chicken platter lies in its simplicity. It’s just chicken, grilled to perfection, often paired with fresh vegetables, rice, or even a tangy sauce to elevate the flavor. But it’s the memories, the conversations, and the shared moments that truly make it stand out.
The versatility of a grilled chicken platter makes it a go-to dish for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for your family or planning a gathering with friends, it offers a simple, yet delicious solution. And what’s even better is that you can customize it to suit any taste. You can add a spicy twist, a smoky barbecue flavor, or even opt for a Mediterranean-style marinade. This versatility allows the platter to take on different forms for any event, from casual dinners to holiday celebrations. For example, you can always add a side of grilled zucchini boats to give a unique touch to your meal, or explore a grilled teriyaki chicken recipe to take it to the next level.
Grilled Chicken Platter for Events and Parties
How to Keep Grilled Chicken Warm for a Party
When it comes to serving a grilled chicken platter at a party, keeping it warm is key to ensuring your guests enjoy it at its best. One of the most effective ways to keep grilled chicken warm is by using warming trays or chafing dishes. These tools can hold the heat for extended periods, allowing you to focus on the fun without worrying about the food cooling down too quickly. If you don’t have access to warming trays, you can also wrap the chicken in aluminum foil and place it in an oven set at a low temperature (around 200°F). This will help retain the moisture and keep the chicken tender without overcooking it.
Another great method is to use a slow cooker, especially if you’re serving a large group. Simply place the grilled chicken in the slow cooker and set it to the “keep warm” setting. This is a practical solution for events like family gatherings or barbecues, where guests will be helping themselves to food throughout the evening. Plus, using a slow cooker allows you to add some sauce or marinade to the chicken to enhance the flavor while keeping it warm.
Grilled Chicken Platter as the Perfect Party Dish
Grilled chicken platters are perfect for any party. They are easy to serve, customizable to different tastes, and loved by most guests. Whether it’s a casual get-together or a more formal event, a grilled chicken platter can be the centerpiece of your meal. The beauty of this dish is that it’s both simple and sophisticated. You can make it as casual as a backyard barbecue or elevate it with a gourmet touch by adding sides like roasted vegetables, potato salads, or fresh bread.
And because grilled chicken is so versatile, it can cater to various dietary preferences. Whether your guests are meat lovers, vegetarians, or need gluten-free options, a grilled chicken platter can easily be adapted to fit everyone’s needs. The best part is that it can be prepped ahead of time, leaving you with more time to enjoy the party with your guests. You can even pair it with a side of grilled zucchini boats to offer a healthier alternative or check out the grilled teriyaki chicken recipe for a delicious twist to your platter.
Grilled Chicken Platters for Large Groups
How Much Grilled Chicken to Serve for 50 People
When hosting a large event, figuring out how much grilled chicken you need can be tricky. A good rule of thumb is to plan for about 1/2 to 3/4 pound of chicken per person, depending on whether it’s a main dish or part of a buffet. For 50 people, you’ll need around 25 to 37.5 pounds of chicken, which would translate to about 50 to 75 chicken breasts. Keep in mind that chicken on the bone (such as thighs or drumsticks) may weigh more, so adjust accordingly if you’re using cuts other than boneless breasts.
For large groups, I recommend preparing a little extra, especially if you want to ensure everyone has enough to eat. You can also consider having a variety of grilled chicken options, such as spicy grilled chicken and lemon-herb chicken, to cater to different tastes.
How to Scale Up for Bigger Gatherings
Scaling up a grilled chicken platter for a larger event is all about preparation and organization. The key is to keep things simple. Marinate the chicken the night before and have everything ready to go so you can cook in batches. Consider investing in a larger grill or using multiple grills if you’re cooking for a very large group. Another option is to use a rotisserie-style grill or oven to ensure all the chicken is evenly cooked and stays juicy.
You may also want to plan for additional sides like roasted vegetables or salads, which are easy to prepare in advance and can complement the grilled chicken perfectly. For even more variety, consider serving a few different types of chicken marinades, from a smoky BBQ glaze to a tangy mustard and honey dressing.
Looking for creative chicken platter ideas? Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or a special event, a well-curated chicken platter can impress your guests. You can serve grilled chicken skewers, crispy fried chicken pieces, or flavorful roasted chicken alongside a variety of dips and sauces. Add some fresh vegetables, cheese, and vibrant fruits to balance the savory flavors. For a more adventurous twist, try incorporating international flavors like Mediterranean chicken with tzatziki or spicy buffalo chicken with blue cheese dressing. Perfect for any occasion, chicken platters are versatile, easy to assemble, and sure to satisfy all tastes.
Cost and Convenience of Grilled Chicken Platters
How Much Does a Chick-fil-A Chicken Tray Cost?
When it comes to convenience, ordering from places like Chick-fil-A can be a tempting option for large gatherings. A typical Chick-fil-A chicken tray costs anywhere between $30 to $40, depending on the size and the number of servings. For example, their classic Chicken Nugget Tray (serving 10-12 people) generally costs around $30, while larger trays (serving 20-24 people) could go up to $40. This can vary depending on location, time of day, or any promotions they might have.
While buying from a restaurant can save you time, making your own grilled chicken platter at home is often more cost-effective, especially when you’re feeding a larger group. Not only can you customize the seasoning and flavors to suit your guests’ preferences, but you’ll also have leftovers for the next day!
Are Grilled Chicken Platters Worth the Price?
Grilled chicken platters are definitely worth the price when you consider the value they bring to your party or event. A homemade platter allows you to tailor the meal exactly how you want, adding personal touches and ensuring that everyone’s dietary needs are met. Plus, you have complete control over the ingredients and portions.
The cost of making a grilled chicken platter at home will depend on the type of chicken you choose and any additional sides or sauces you include. Typically, boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the most cost-effective option for large groups. By buying in bulk, you can save money and ensure you’re offering a delicious meal that everyone will enjoy.
FAQ Section
What is a Chicken Platter?
A chicken platter is a dish that typically consists of grilled or roasted chicken served with a variety of sides, such as rice, vegetables, potatoes, or salads. It’s a versatile and satisfying meal, perfect for family gatherings, parties, or casual dinners. The grilled chicken is often marinated to enhance its flavor, making it both delicious and easy to prepare in large quantities.
How Do You Keep Grilled Chicken Warm for a Party?
To keep grilled chicken warm for a party, there are a few options:
Warming trays or chafing dishes: These are perfect for keeping grilled chicken hot for an extended period.
Oven: Set your oven to low (around 200°F) and place the chicken in a covered dish.
Slow cooker: Use the “keep warm” setting to maintain the temperature without overcooking the chicken.
Aluminum foil: Wrap the chicken tightly in foil to retain heat and moisture.
These methods ensure your grilled chicken stays warm and delicious, allowing your guests to enjoy it at its best.
How Much is the Chick-fil-A Chicken Tray?
The cost of a Chick-fil-A chicken tray varies depending on size and location. A smaller tray, serving 10-12 people, typically costs around $30, while larger trays, which serve 20-24 people, can range from $40 to $50. This makes it an easy option for those looking for convenience but can be more expensive compared to preparing a grilled chicken platter at home.
How Many Pounds of Grilled Chicken for 50 People?
For 50 people, you’ll need approximately 25 to 37.5 pounds of chicken, assuming a serving size of 1/2 to 3/4 pound of chicken per person. If you’re using boneless chicken breasts, plan on 1 piece per person, but for bone-in chicken, adjust accordingly. Always consider preparing a little extra to ensure everyone is well-fed.
Conclusion
Grilled chicken platters are a go-to solution for any occasion, whether it’s a small family dinner or a large party. The versatility of the dish allows you to customize it with various marinades, sides, and even a glaze, making it a crowd-pleaser for all kinds of events. From keeping the chicken warm at your gathering to scaling up for a large group, the grilled chicken platter is an easy and cost-effective choice. Whether you’re making it at home or ordering it from a restaurant like Chick-fil-A, the grilled chicken platter is guaranteed to bring people together around the table.
With the right preparation, your grilled chicken platter will be the star of the event. So next time you’re planning a gathering, consider serving a grilled chicken platter—it’s not only a satisfying meal but also a reminder of the joy of sharing good food and great company.
