This Grilled Lemon Chicken is a juicy delight, bursting with zesty citrus flavor. The marinade, made with fresh lemons and herbs, adds a refreshing twist that makes it so tasty!
I love making this dish on warm days; the bright flavor is like sunshine on a plate! Pair it with a simple salad, and you’ve got a perfect meal that’s ready in no time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for grilling, but you can use thighs instead for a juicier flavor. If you’re looking for a plant-based option, consider marinated tofu or tempeh.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds a wonderful flavor here, but you can use other oils like avocado oil for a similar effect. Just be cautious if you choose lighter oils as they may have different smoke points.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice imparts a bright flavor. If fresh lemons aren’t available, bottled lemon juice works too, but it might be slightly less vibrant. You can also replace some lemon juice with lime juice for a different twist!
Garlic: Fresh garlic is lovely for its punchy flavor. If you’re short on time, garlic powder can be a substitute, though start with less since it’s more concentrated.
Herbs: Dried oregano adds a nice herby flavor. You could easily swap it for Italian seasoning, dried thyme, or even fresh herbs if you have them on hand.
How Do You Ensure Perfectly Grilled Chicken?
Grilling chicken can be tricky, but there are a few key points to keep in mind to achieve juicy results. First, marinate the chicken! This step infuses the flavor and keeps the meat tender.
- Make sure the grill is preheated to medium-high; this helps to get those great grill marks.
- Let excess marinade drip off before placing the chicken on the grill; too much liquid can cause flare-ups.
- Cook the chicken without moving it too much—this helps form a nice crust. Flip only once around halfway through cooking.
- Check for doneness with a meat thermometer. Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to be safe to eat.
- Finally, resting your chicken for a few minutes after grilling allows the juices to redistribute. This will keep each bite moist!
How to Make Grilled Lemon Chicken?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
For the Marinade:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon slices
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and marinate, plus an additional 12-14 minutes to grill the chicken. If you let the chicken marinate longer (up to 4 hours), it will enhance the flavor. The total time can range from 22 minutes to about 4 hours and 14 minutes, depending on how long you choose to marinate!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and black pepper. This will be your tasty marinade, full of flavor that infuses into the chicken.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Take the chicken breasts and place them in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure they are well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish, then refrigerate. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or if you have time, up to 4 hours for even more flavor.
3. Grill the Chicken:
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Once hot, take the chicken out of the marinade and let any excess marinade drip off. Discard the leftover marinade. Grill the chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side. You want it cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C), and nice grill marks to make it look great.
4. Serve Your Dish:
Once the chicken is grilled, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps keep it juicy. Then, garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve with lemon slices on the side. Enjoy your delicious grilled lemon chicken! It’s perfect for a summer meal or any time you want something fresh and flavorful.
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs can be a great substitute as they tend to be juicier and more flavorful. Just adjust your cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a couple of minutes longer to reach the desired internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
What Can I Substitute for Olive Oil?
If you don’t have olive oil on hand, you can use canola oil, vegetable oil, or avocado oil as a substitute. Each will provide a slightly different flavor, but the recipe will still be delicious!
How Should I Store Leftover Grilled Chicken?
Store any leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or in a skillet over low heat until heated through. You can add a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist while reheating.
Can I Make the Marinade in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the marinade up to a day ahead. Just store it in the fridge in a sealed container. When you’re ready to use it, pour it over the chicken and marinate as directed. This allows even more time for the flavors to meld!
