Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken
Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken combines zesty lemon and aromatic herbs for a deliciously refreshing, juicy grilled chicken. Perfect for any occasion, this easy-to-make dish is a crowd-pleaser that’s not only healthy but bursting with flavor.The marinade of fresh lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and herbs infuses the chicken with bright, savory, and slightly tangy notes. It’s a quick and easy recipe that works for weeknight dinners, barbecues, or meal prepping.
Equipment
- Grill (1)
- Mixing bowl (1)
- Whisk (1)
- Meat thermometer (1)
- Tongs (1)
- Resealable plastic bag or shallow dish (1)
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice about 1 lemon
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest from 1 lemon
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
- 1 tablespoon fresh oregano chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- Red pepper flakes optional, to taste
- Lemon slices for garnish
- Fresh parsley or thyme optional, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a mixing bowl, whisk together lemon juice, lemon zest, olive oil, garlic, and your choice of herbs (rosemary, thyme, oregano). Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if desired).
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts or thighs into a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken and coat evenly.Seal the bag or cover the dish, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours.
- Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 375-400°F / 190-200°C). Oil the grill grates lightly to prevent sticking.
- Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade, shaking off any excess. Grill the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F / 75°C.
- Rest and Serve: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing.Garnish with fresh lemon slices and herbs. Serve with your favorite sides and enjoy!
Notes
- Chicken Cuts: This recipe works well with either chicken breasts or thighs. If using thighs, you may need to adjust the cooking time as they tend to be thicker.
- Marinating Time: For the most flavorful chicken, marinate it for 2-4 hours. However, even 30 minutes will provide a good level of flavor.
- Grill Tips: Ensure your grill is preheated properly to avoid the chicken sticking. If you don’t have a grill, you can use a stovetop grill pan or bake the chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.