Description
This Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken recipe offers a vibrant and flavorful way to enjoy juicy, tender chicken breasts marinated in a zesty lemon and herb mixture. Perfect for a healthy Mediterranean-inspired main course, it’s quick to prepare and ideal for grilling season.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Marinade
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
- 1 tbsp lemon zest
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Garnish
- Chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl or zip-top bag, combine olive oil, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to blend the flavors thoroughly.
- Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken breasts to the marinade and toss to ensure they are fully coated. Seal the bag or cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 8 hours for enhanced flavor infusion.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high and lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking, preparing for perfect grilling conditions.
- Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken breasts from the marinade, letting excess drip off. Place them on the grill and cook for 5 to 7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the chicken develops a golden color with appealing grill marks.
- Rest the Chicken: Transfer the grilled chicken to a plate and let it rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring moist, flavorful meat.
- Serve and Garnish: Slice the chicken if desired, garnish with chopped fresh parsley, and serve immediately. Pairs wonderfully with grilled vegetables, rice, or fresh salad.
Notes
- This recipe also works excellently with chicken thighs for a juicier alternative.
- Serve alongside grilled vegetables, rice, or a crisp salad for a balanced meal.
- Leftover grilled chicken is perfect for wraps or salads the following day.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 0 g
- Sodium: 490 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 2 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 34 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg
