Description
Lemon Garlic Grilled Chicken
Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1/4 cup olive oil
3 tbsp fresh lemon juice
1 tbsp lemon zest
3 garlic cloves (minced)
1 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp paprika
Salt and pepper (to taste)
Lemon slices (for garnish)
Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
Directions
Prepare the marinade: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Marinate the chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken and coat evenly. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 8 hours in the refrigerator.
Grill the chicken: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Serve: Garnish with fresh lemon slices and parsley. Serve with your favorite side dishes like roasted vegetables or a fresh salad.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Marinate Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 250 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed steps for perfect results every time. First, ensure your chicken breasts are of even thickness by gently pounding them to about 1/2 inch. This promotes even cooking. For the marinade, use fresh lemon juice and zest for the brightest flavor; bottled juice can taste dull. Whisk the marinade vigorously to emulsify the oil and juice. When marinating, ensure the bag is sealed tightly or the dish is covered. For maximum flavor penetration, marinate for the full 8 hours if time allows. Before grilling, remove the chicken from the fridge for 15-20 minutes to take the chill off, which helps it cook evenly. Oil your grill grates well to prevent sticking. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness at the thickest part, aiming for 165°F. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing to retain its juices.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. For a light meal, serve it atop a crisp Greek salad or alongside grilled asparagus and zucchini. For heartier appetites, pair it with lemon herb rice, garlic mashed potatoes, or buttered orzo. Leftovers are excellent sliced cold over a salad, chopped into wraps, or shredded for chicken tacos with a fresh cabbage slaw.
How-to Summary
In short: Pound chicken for even thickness. Whisk oil, lemon, zest, garlic, and spices for the marinade. Coat chicken and marinate for 30 minutes to 8 hours. Grill over medium-high heat for 6-8 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 165°F. Rest, then garnish and serve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bake this chicken instead of grilling it? Absolutely. Bake on a parchment-lined sheet at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until it reaches 165°F internally.
How long can I store the marinated chicken? In an airtight container in the refrigerator, marinated raw chicken is safe for up to 2 days. Do not marinate at room temperature.
Can I use chicken thighs? Yes, bone-in or boneless thighs work wonderfully. Adjust grilling time slightly, as thighs often take a few minutes longer and are best cooked to 175°F for tenderness.
My marinade isn’t sticking to the chicken. What went wrong? Ensure the chicken is patted dry before adding it to the marinade. Moisture on the surface creates a barrier that prevents the marinade from adhering properly.
Is there a substitute for fresh lemon juice? Fresh is highly recommended for flavor. In a pinch, you can use bottled juice, but the zest is crucial for that bright, aromatic lemon essence.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not pounding the chicken, leading to uneven cooking.
- Marinating at room temperature, which is a food safety hazard.
- Skipping the resting time after grilling, causing the juices to run out when sliced.
- Overcooking the chicken, which makes it dry and tough. Always use a meat thermometer.
- Using only the lemon juice and forgetting the zest, which holds intense citrus oils.
Conclusion
This Lemon Garlic Grilled Chicken recipe is a reliable, flavorful foundation for countless healthy meals. Its simplicity belies its impressive taste, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and entertaining guests. By following the step-by-step guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you can achieve juicy, perfectly charred chicken bursting with Mediterranean flavor every single time. It’s a timeless recipe that deserves a permanent spot in your culinary repertoire.