Description
Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken
Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1/4 cup olive oil
3 tbsp fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried thyme
1/2 tsp paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Lemon wedges (for serving)
Directions
Prepare the marinade: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Marinate the chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a resealable bag or dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, seal, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours for maximum flavor).
Preheat the grill: Heat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
Grill the chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade and place it on the grill. Cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Serve: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes, then serve with lemon wedges for a fresh citrus kick.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 22 minutes (plus marinating time)
Servings: 4
Calories: 250 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed steps for perfect Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken every time. First, ensure your chicken breasts are of even thickness by gently pounding them with a meat mallet or rolling pin. This promotes even cooking. Next, thoroughly whisk the marinade ingredients in a bowl until fully emulsified. Place the chicken in a shallow dish or resealable bag, add the marinade, and ensure each piece is fully coated. Refrigerate for the full recommended time. When ready to cook, preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high and lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking. Grill the chicken undisturbed for 5-6 minutes to achieve good grill marks before flipping. Use a meat thermometer to confirm the internal temperature has reached 165°F in the thickest part. Finally, transfer the chicken to a clean plate, tent loosely with foil, and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. For a light summer meal, serve it over a bed of mixed greens, quinoa, or alongside grilled vegetables like asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers. It also makes a fantastic protein for meal prep bowls. For a more comforting dinner, pair it with roasted potatoes, a crisp garden salad, or a simple orzo pasta. Leftovers are excellent sliced cold on top of salads or used in wraps and sandwiches the next day.
How-to Summary
In short: Pound chicken for even thickness. Whisk oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs for the marinade. Coat chicken and marinate for 30 minutes to 4 hours. Preheat grill to medium-high. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side until it reaches 165°F internally. Rest for 5 minutes before serving with lemon wedges.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bake this chicken instead of grilling it?
Yes. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the marinated chicken on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
How long can I marinate the chicken?
For best results, marinate for at least 30 minutes, but no longer than 4 hours. The acid in the lemon juice can begin to break down the chicken texture if marinated too long.
Can I use dried lemon juice instead of fresh?
Fresh lemon juice is highly recommended for the brightest flavor. In a pinch, you can substitute 1 tablespoon of bottled lemon juice, but the taste will be less vibrant.
What if I don’t have a meat thermometer?
While a thermometer is best, you can check for doneness by cutting into the thickest part of one breast. The juices should run clear, and the meat should no longer be pink.
Can I use chicken thighs?
Absolutely. Bone-in or boneless thighs work well. Adjust grilling time as needed, as thighs often take a few minutes longer to cook through.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping the Resting Time: Cutting into the chicken immediately releases its juices, resulting in dry meat. Always let it rest.
- Marinating Too Long: Exceeding 4 hours in the acidic marinade can give the chicken a mushy, mealy texture.
- Not Preheating the Grill: A properly preheated grill ensures a good sear and prevents sticking.
- Constantly Flipping: Allow the chicken to cook undisturbed on one side to develop flavorful grill marks and a proper crust.
- Using Uneven Chicken Breasts: Pounding them to an even thickness is crucial for preventing the thinner parts from drying out.
Conclusion
This Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken recipe is a reliable, flavorful foundation for countless healthy meals. Its simplicity, combined with the bright, aromatic marinade, delivers impressive results with minimal effort. By following the step-by-step guide and heeding the common mistakes, you can master this essential grilling technique. It’s a perfect, protein-packed dish for busy weeknights or weekend barbecues that is sure to become a staple in your cooking repertoire.