1-First Step: Mix the Marinade Start by adding the extra virgin olive oil, garlic, balsamic vinegar, fresh lemon juice, oregano, salt, basil, thyme, sugar, and onion powder to a food processor or blender. Blend until the mixture looks smooth and well mixed. If you do not have a blender, mince the garlic very finely and stir everything together in a bowl until combined.

2-Second Step: Coat the Chicken Place the chicken breast or chicken tenderloins into a bowl, shallow dish, or zip-top bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken and turn each piece so every side gets covered. Make sure the chicken is fully coated, since that helps every bite taste balanced and flavorful.

3-Third Step: Marinate the Chicken Cover the bowl or seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 3 hours. You can marinate it longer if needed, but the minimum time gives the flavors a good chance to sink into the chicken. This is one of the easiest ways to make the final dish taste richer without adding extra work later.

4-Fourth Step: Preheat the Cooking Surface When you are ready to cook, heat your grill, grill pan, or skillet to medium or medium-high. Brush the surface with about 1 tablespoon vegetable oil so the chicken does not stick. This is especially helpful if you want nice grill marks or a good sear on the outside.

5-Fifth Step: Cook the Chicken Place the marinated chicken on the grill or in the skillet. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side, depending on thickness. If you are using thin-sliced chicken breast or tenderloins, they may finish very quickly, so keep a close eye on them.

6-Sixth Step: Check the Temperature Use a meat thermometer to check the thickest part of the chicken. It should reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit before you take it off the heat. This is the best way to avoid dry chicken and make sure it is cooked safely.

7-Final Step: Rest and Serve Remove the chicken from the heat promptly once it reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving so the juices stay inside the meat instead of running out onto the plate. Then serve it with rice, roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, salad, or pasta.