This Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken is full of fresh flavors! Marinated in lemon juice and herbs, it turns out juicy and bright every time. Perfect for a sunny BBQ!
I love serving it with a side salad or grilled veggies. It’s like a taste of summer on my plate, and who doesn’t enjoy a good grilled chicken moment? 🌞
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless chicken breasts are a great choice for grilling since they cook quickly and evenly. If you prefer dark meat, use thighs instead. They’re juicier and can add a different flavor to the dish.
Olive Oil: This is essential for the marinade. If you’re out of olive oil, avocado oil is a good alternative. It has a mild flavor and is also great for grilling.
Lemons: Fresh lemons add brightness to the chicken. If you don’t have fresh ones, bottled lemon juice can work, but fresh really brings out the flavor!
Herbs: Fresh herbs like rosemary, parsley, and thyme really make this dish shine. If fresh herbs aren’t handy, dried versions can be used—but use less, as they’re more potent.
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic gives a robust flavor. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can substitute in a smaller amount, but fresh is always best for that punch.
How Can I Achieve Grilled Chicken That’s Juicy and Flavorful?
Marinating the chicken is key to keeping it juicy and flavorful. It’s best to marinate for at least 30 minutes, but for deeper flavor, aim for 2 hours or even overnight if possible. This allows the garlic and herbs to penetrate the chicken.
- After marinating, let the excess marinade drip off. This helps achieve those lovely grill marks.
- Make sure your grill is at medium-high heat. This sears the outside while keeping the inside moist.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. The chicken should reach 165°F (75°C).
- Rest the chicken for a few minutes after grilling. This lets the juices redistribute, resulting in a tender bite.
How to Make Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
For the Marinade:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 lemons (zested and juiced)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped (plus extra sprigs for garnish)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Lemon slices, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 5-7 minutes for grilling. Additionally, marinating the chicken takes at least 30 minutes (up to 2 hours for better flavor). In total, you should plan for about 40 minutes to 2 hours, depending on your marinating time.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
Start by grabbing a medium bowl. Combine the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, parsley, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together until well combined. This mixture is your marinade.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Place the chicken breasts in a shallow dish or a zip-top bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece is well coated. Cover with plastic wrap or seal the bag, and let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator. Aim for at least 30 minutes, but 2 hours will give you a stronger flavor!
3. Get the Grill Ready:
While the chicken is marinating, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. To ensure the chicken doesn’t stick, lightly oil the grill grates with a paper towel dipped in oil (be careful with the heat!).
4. Grill the Chicken:
Once the chicken has marinated and the grill is hot, take the chicken out of the marinade and let any excess drip off. Place the chicken breasts on the grill. Grill the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side. You’re looking for a nice char and an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
5. Rest and Serve:
When the chicken is nicely grilled, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps keep it juicy! Serve the chicken breasts on a plate, garnished with fresh rosemary sprigs and lemon slices to make it look pretty.
6. Enjoy!
If you want an extra zing, feel free to squeeze some fresh lemon juice over the chicken before serving. Enjoy your delicious grilled lemon herb chicken!
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and more flavorful, making them an excellent choice for grilling. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as thighs may take a few extra minutes to fully cook compared to breasts.
How Long Can I Marinate the Chicken?
You can marinate the chicken for as little as 30 minutes up to 2 hours for optimal flavor. If you need to marinate it longer, you can do so overnight in the refrigerator, but be cautious not to exceed 24 hours, as the acid in the marinade can change the texture of the chicken.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool the chicken to room temperature before sealing. To reheat, warm it gently in the microwave or on a skillet over low heat to maintain its juiciness.
Can I Make This Recipe in the Oven?
Yes! If you can’t grill, you can bake the marinated chicken at 425°F (220°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Just be sure to use a baking sheet lined with foil or parchment for easy cleanup!
