Grilled lemon herb chicken is a simple yet delicious dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend barbecue. Marinated in a zesty blend of lemon, fresh herbs, and garlic, this chicken is juicy, flavorful, and versatile. Serve it with your favorite sides for a meal that everyone will love. Let’s fire up the grill!
Ingredients
- Chicken Breasts or Thighs (4 pieces)
Use boneless, skinless chicken for easy grilling, or bone-in for extra flavor. - Lemon Juice (¼ cup, freshly squeezed)
Adds bright, tangy flavor and tenderizes the chicken. - Olive Oil (¼ cup)
Keeps the chicken moist and helps it absorb the marinade. - Garlic (3 cloves, minced)
Infuses the chicken with a savory depth of flavor. - Fresh Herbs (2 tablespoons, chopped)
A mix of parsley, thyme, and rosemary works beautifully. You can substitute with dried herbs if needed. - Salt (1 teaspoon)
Enhances the flavor of the marinade. - Black Pepper (½ teaspoon)
Adds a touch of spice. - Paprika (1 teaspoon, optional)
For a hint of smokiness and color. - Lemon Zest (1 teaspoon)
Boosts the citrus flavor.
How to Make Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, fresh herbs, salt, pepper, paprika (if using), and lemon zest.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Place the chicken in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it’s evenly coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 8 hours for maximum flavor.
Step 3: Preheat the Grill
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375°F to 400°F). Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
Step 4: Grill the Chicken
Remove the chicken from the marinade and let any excess drip off. Grill the chicken for 5–7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for breasts or 175°F (79°C) for thighs.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving to lock in the juices. Garnish with fresh herbs or lemon slices and serve hot.
Equipment Needed
- Grill (charcoal or gas) for cooking.
- Resealable plastic bag or shallow dish for marinating.
- Tongs for flipping the chicken.
- Meat thermometer to check doneness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bake the chicken instead of grilling?
Yes! Bake the marinated chicken in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25–30 minutes, or until fully cooked.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Thighs are juicier and work wonderfully in this recipe. Adjust the cooking time as needed.
How long can I marinate the chicken?
Marinate for at least 30 minutes for flavor, but no longer than 8 hours to prevent the chicken from becoming mushy.
What sides go well with grilled lemon herb chicken?
Pair it with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, rice pilaf, or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! Marinate the chicken in advance and store it in the fridge. Grill just before serving for the best taste.
Can I freeze the marinated chicken?
Yes! Place the chicken and marinade in a freezer-safe bag and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before grilling.
How do I keep the chicken from drying out?
Don’t overcook the chicken, and let it rest after grilling to retain the juices. Using a meat thermometer ensures perfectly cooked chicken.
Conclusion
Grilled lemon herb chicken is a versatile and flavorful recipe that’s sure to become a favorite. Its fresh, zesty marinade and juicy texture make it a standout dish for any occasion. I hope you enjoy making this recipe as much as I do! If you loved it, don’t forget to share it on Facebook or save it on Pinterest for later. Happy grilling! 🍋✨
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