We’ve always loved how Perdue Perfect Portions simplify weeknight cooking with their pre-portioned chicken breasts that deliver fresh flavor every time. These recipes draw from our favorite kitchen hacks to turn ordinary meals into standout dishes packed with protein and ease.
As food enthusiasts we appreciate Perdue’s commitment to quality poultry so our introductions to these recipes focus on quick prep and big taste. Whether you’re grilling or baking you’ll find options that fit your busy schedule and elevate your table.
Ingredients
As food enthusiasts who value the convenience of Perdue Perfect Portions, we rely on high-quality, pre-portioned chicken breasts to streamline our recipes while delivering bold, protein-packed flavors. Below, we list the ingredients for our favorite Grilled Perdue Perfect Portions Chicken Breasts recipe, ordered by how they’re used in preparation. Each item includes specific measurements and prep notes for accuracy and ease.
Main Protein
- 2 packages (about 1.5 pounds total) of Perdue Perfect Portions chicken breasts – These are our go-to for quick grilling; thaw if frozen and pat dry to ensure even cooking.
Marinade Base
- 1/4 cup olive oil – Use extra-virgin for a richer flavor; this forms the base of our marinade.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced – Freshly minced for maximum aroma; add this next to infuse the oil.
Herbs and Seasonings
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped – We prefer fresh over dried for vibrant taste; chop just before use.
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped – Pairs perfectly with Perdue Perfect Portions; prepare alongside rosemary.
- 1 teaspoon salt – Kosher salt works best for enhancing the natural flavors without overwhelming.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground – Grind right before adding for a sharper kick.
Optional Add-Ins
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested – Provides acidity; zest first, then juice to brighten the dish.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved – Add these if grilling vegetables alongside; they cook quickly and add color.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 350 | 18% |
| Protein | 30g | 60% |
| Fat | 20g | 26% |
| Carbohydrates | 5g | 2% |
Required Tools and Equipment
To prepare our flavorful Grilled Perdue Perfect Portions Chicken Breasts, we rely on a few essential tools that streamline the process and ensure safety and precision. Building on our ingredient list, these items help us achieve perfectly grilled results with minimal effort.
Essential Tools List
We recommend the following tools, organized by preparation and cooking stages. Each one plays a key role in handling Perdue Perfect Portions chicken efficiently:
- Grill or Grill Pan: A gas or charcoal grill is ideal for imparting that smoky flavor, but a sturdy grill pan works for indoor cooking. Ensure it’s preheated to medium-high heat for even searing.
- Tongs: Long-handled stainless steel tongs allow us to flip the chicken breasts without piercing the meat, preserving juices and preventing flare-ups.
- Cutting Board and Chef’s Knife: A large, stable cutting board paired with a sharp chef’s knife helps us chop garlic, herbs, and other add-ins quickly and safely.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate stainless steel sets ensure we measure olive oil, spices, and marinades precisely, avoiding over-seasoning.
- Mixing Bowl: A medium-sized glass or stainless steel bowl is perfect for combining our marinade ingredients before coating the Perdue Perfect Portions chicken.
- Meat Thermometer: An instant-read digital thermometer guarantees the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for food safety without overcooking.
- Basting Brush: A silicone brush lets us evenly apply marinades or oils during grilling, enhancing flavor and moisture.
Quick Tool Comparison
For those deciding between basic and advanced options, here’s a simple comparison of key tools based on our experience with Perdue Perfect Portions recipes:
| Tool | Basic Option | Advanced Option | Benefits for Our Recipe |
|---|---|---|---|
| Grill | Charcoal grill ($20–$50) | Gas grill ($100–$300) | Charcoal adds authentic smoke; gas offers quick heat control for busy weeknights. |
| Tongs | Plastic-coated ($5–$10) | Stainless steel locking ($10–$20) | Basic ones suffice for home use; locking feature improves grip during flipping. |
| Meat Thermometer | Analog probe ($5–$15) | Digital instant-read ($15–$30) | Ensures accuracy; digital models provide faster results to keep our cooking on schedule. |
By using these tools, we make grilling Perdue Perfect Portions Chicken Breasts not only straightforward but also a enjoyable part of our routine, delivering meals that are both nutritious and full of bold flavors.
Instructions
We love how Perdue Perfect Portions simplify our grilling adventures, making it easy to create juicy, flavorful chicken breasts packed with protein in no time. Let’s walk through the steps to prepare, cook, and serve this delicious grilled dish using our fresh ingredients and tools.
Preparation
Before firing up the grill, we start by prepping our Perdue Perfect Portions chicken breasts to infuse them with bold flavors. Begin by gathering 4 Perdue Perfect Portions chicken breasts, 2 tablespoons olive oil, 3 minced garlic cloves, 2 tablespoons chopped fresh herbs (such as rosemary or thyme), and optional add-ins like juice from 1 lemon and 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the 2 tablespoons olive oil, 3 minced garlic cloves, and 2 tablespoons chopped fresh herbs to create a vibrant marinade that will enhance the chicken’s natural tenderness.
- Place the 4 Perdue Perfect Portions chicken breasts in the bowl and coat them evenly with the marinade, ensuring each piece absorbs the aromatic garlic and herbs for maximum flavor.
- If using optional add-ins, squeeze the juice from 1 lemon over the chicken for a zesty tang and mix in 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes for a burst of sweetness that complements the savory notes.
- Cover the bowl and let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for 15-30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the chicken to stay moist and succulent.
Cooking
Now we move to the grill, where our Perdue Perfect Portions transform into golden, smoky perfection with minimal effort. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat (around 375°F) and have your tongs, meat thermometer, and basting brush at the ready for precise control.
- Remove the marinated chicken from the refrigerator and pat it lightly with a paper towel to remove excess moisture, promoting a perfect sear.
- Place the 4 Perdue Perfect Portions chicken breasts on the grill grates and cook for 6-8 minutes per side, flipping once with tongs for even charring that locks in juicy tenderness.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F in the thickest part of each breast, ensuring safety and optimal doneness without overcooking.
- Baste the chicken with any remaining marinade halfway through cooking to amplify the garlic and herb aromas, resulting in a mouthwatering, caramelized exterior that fills the air with irresistible scents.
If you’re tracking cooking times or temperatures, refer to this quick guide:
| Step | Time (minutes) | Temperature (°F) |
|---|---|---|
| Preheat grill | 5-10 | 375 |
| Cook per side | 6-8 | N/A |
| Check doneness | N/A | 165 |
Serving
Once grilled, we focus on plating our Perdue Perfect Portions chicken to highlight its vibrant flavors and make it a feast for the eyes and palate. Slice the rested chicken breasts into even strips and arrange them on a platter alongside fresh sides like a simple salad or grilled vegetables.
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes off the heat to retain its juices, then slice each breast for easy serving that reveals the tender, herb-infused interior.
- Garnish with the reserved cherry tomatoes and a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a colorful, appetizing presentation that adds a pop of sweetness and visual appeal.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the warm, smoky flavors at their peak, pairing with whole grains or greens to create a balanced, protein-packed meal that satisfies our cravings for bold, healthy tastes.
Make-Ahead Instructions
As food enthusiasts who rely on Perdue Perfect Portions for effortless meals, we love how these pre-portioned chicken breasts simplify make-ahead strategies, allowing you to prepare flavorful grilled chicken in advance without sacrificing taste or texture. By planning ahead, we can marinate, store, and reheat these protein-packed breasts to deliver juicy, herb-infused results that make busy weeknights a breeze.
Preparing the Marinade and Chicken in Advance
To get a head start on your Grilled Perdue Perfect Portions Chicken Breasts, begin by mixing the marinade early. We combine olive oil, minced garlic, and fresh herbs in a bowl, whisking until the aromatic oils release their zesty fragrance. Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or airtight container, then pour in the marinade, ensuring each piece is evenly coated for maximum flavor absorption. Seal and refrigerate the bag immediately to let the herbs infuse the chicken with bold, savory notes.
Marinating and Storage Tips
For optimal results, we recommend marinating Perdue Perfect Portions Chicken Breasts for at least 2 hours or up to 24 hours in the refrigerator. This step allows the flavors to penetrate deeply, resulting in tender, mouthwatering meat with a subtle garlic kick. If you’re storing longer, use the following guidelines in a markdown table to ensure safety and quality:
| Storage Method | Duration | Key Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | Up to 24 hours | Keep at 40°F (4°C) or below; flip the bag halfway through for even marination and prevent bacterial growth. |
| Freezer | Up to 3 months | Freeze the marinated chicken in a freezer-safe bag; thaw overnight in the fridge to maintain juicy texture and avoid sogginess. |
Grilling and Storing Cooked Chicken
If you prefer to grill ahead, preheat your grill to medium-high heat as outlined in our previous steps, then cook the Perdue Perfect Portions Chicken Breasts for 6-8 minutes per side until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F, yielding a golden char and irresistible smoky aroma. Once cooled, slice or store the chicken whole in airtight containers. We suggest dividing portions into meal-sized servings to preserve freshness—refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months, ensuring the vibrant flavors remain intact for reheating.
Reheating for Peak Flavor
When it’s time to enjoy, we reheat the chicken gently to lock in its succulent juices and bold herbal essence. Place the portions in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, or use a microwave on medium power for 2-3 minutes, covering with a damp paper towel to prevent drying. The result? A reheated dish that still boasts tender bites with a crisp, grilled exterior and fresh herb undertones, making it as convenient as it is delicious for our on-the-go lifestyles.
Conclusion
We’ve loved exploring how Perdue Perfect Portions make cooking a breeze.
They deliver quality and flavor that fit right into our busy lives.
Let’s keep things simple and delicious—try these tips for meals we’ll all enjoy time and again.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Perdue Perfect Portions?
Perdue Perfect Portions are pre-portioned chicken breasts designed for easy weeknight cooking. They offer consistent quality and size, making meal prep simple and reducing waste. Ideal for busy families, they’re perfect for grilling, baking, or quick recipes, with a focus on fresh, flavorful proteins.
What ingredients are needed for the grilled chicken recipe?
You’ll need Perdue Perfect Portions chicken breasts, olive oil, garlic, fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme, and optional add-ins such as lemon juice and cherry tomatoes. Use about 2 tablespoons of oil, 2-3 cloves of garlic, and a handful of herbs per 4 breasts. These create a simple, bold marinade for juicy results.
What tools are required to prepare and grill the chicken?
Essential tools include a grill or grill pan for cooking, tongs for flipping, a cutting board and chef’s knife for prep, measuring cups and spoons for accuracy, a mixing bowl for marinating, a meat thermometer for safety, and a basting brush. Choose basic versions for starters or advanced ones like digital thermometers for precision.
How do I prepare and cook the grilled chicken?
Start by marinating the chicken in a mix of olive oil, garlic, herbs, and optional lemon for 30 minutes to 2 hours. Preheat your grill to medium-high, cook breasts for 6-8 minutes per side, and check for doneness at 165°F internally. Let rest before serving with garnishes like fresh herbs for a flavorful meal.
Is this recipe nutritious, and what’s the nutritional info?
Yes, it’s a healthy option with high protein and low calories. Each serving of grilled Perdue Perfect Portions provides about 25g of protein and around 200 calories, depending on portions. It’s rich in lean protein, making it great for health-conscious cooks, with fresh herbs adding vitamins without extra fats.
Can I make this chicken ahead of time?
Absolutely! Marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance and store in the fridge, or freeze for up to 3 months. Grill as needed, then refrigerate cooked chicken for 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to keep it juicy and flavorful, perfect for busy schedules.
How should I store and reheat the cooked chicken?
Store cooked chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for 2-3 months. To reheat, use the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes or microwave on low for 2-3 minutes to maintain moisture. Avoid overcooking to preserve the herbs’ bold flavors and texture.