This Grilled Lemon Chicken is a bright and zesty dish that’s perfect for dinner! The chicken is marinated in lemon juice and herbs, giving it a refreshing taste.
Honestly, nothing beats that grilled flavor. I love serving it with a side of veggies—makes me feel like I’m eating healthy, even if I sneak in some bread too! 😉
This recipe is a breeze to whip up. Just marinate, toss it on the grill, and you’re good to go! It’s a favorite of mine for busy weeknights or backyard barbecues.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless chicken breasts are the foundation of this dish. If you’re looking for a juicier option, try chicken thighs instead. They stay tender and flavorful when grilled.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice really brings out the flavor. If you don’t have fresh lemons, bottled lemon juice can work in a pinch, but fresh is always best for taste.
Olive Oil: I use extra virgin olive oil for a richer taste. If that’s not available, avocado oil is a great substitute and has a high smoke point, making it perfect for grilling.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is key for that vibrant flavor. If you’re in a hurry, garlic powder can be an alternative, though fresh is my favorite for its strong aroma.
Dried Oregano: This herb adds a lovely earthiness. If you don’t have dried oregano, dried thyme or Italian seasoning can also do the trick!
How Can I Ensure My Chicken is Perfectly Grilled?
Grilling chicken might seem risky, but following a few steps can yield perfectly cooked chicken every time. The key is to use proper marinating and grilling techniques.
- Marinate the chicken for at least 1 hour, but overnight is best. This not only flavors the chicken but also tenderizes it.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high. A hot grill helps to create those beautiful grill marks while sealing in moisture.
- After placing the chicken on the grill, try not to move it around too much. Let it cook on one side for about 6-7 minutes to develop that crust.
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature – look for 165°F (75°C) to ensure it’s safely cooked.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling. This helps keep it juicy!
How to Make Grilled Lemon Chicken?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh parsley for garnish
- Lemon slices for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty grilled lemon chicken recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and at least 1 hour to marinate (or overnight for better flavor). The cooking time on the grill is around 12-14 minutes. So, plan for a total time of about 1 hour and 20 minutes if you marinate for an hour, or more if you decide to marinate overnight.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, combine the freshly squeezed lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Whisk it together until well mixed. This will be the delicious marinade that adds flavor to your chicken!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Take the chicken breasts and place them in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the prepared marinade over the chicken, ensuring that each piece is nicely coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish, and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. For even more flavor, let it marinate overnight.
3. Grill the Chicken:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent the chicken from sticking. Take the chicken out of the marinade, discarding any leftover marinade. Place the chicken breasts on the grill and cook them for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and have beautiful grill marks.
4. Let it Rest and Serve:
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps keep the chicken juicy. Finally, garnish the grilled chicken with fresh parsley and serve it with lemon slices on the side. Enjoy your delicious grilled lemon chicken!
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Chicken Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great alternative and will add a bit more flavor and juiciness. Just be mindful that they may take a few extra minutes to cook through, so check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) as well.
What Can I Substitute for Olive Oil?
If you don’t have olive oil on hand, you can use other oils like avocado oil or canola oil. These will provide a similar texture and flavor in the marinade. You can also use melted butter for a richer taste, although it may change the overall flavor profile slightly.
How Long Can I Marinate the Chicken?
You can marinate the chicken for anywhere between 1 hour to 24 hours. The longer you marinate, the more flavorful the chicken will be. Just make sure not to exceed 24 hours, as the acid in the lemon juice can make the chicken mushy.
How to Store Leftover Grilled Chicken?
Store any leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a little olive oil to keep it moist. You can also slice it and add it to salads or wraps for a great meal idea!
