Summer is the perfect time to fire up the grill and enjoy the smoky, charred flavors of your favorite foods.
If you’re looking for a new grilling recipe that’s easy to make yet packed with bright, zesty flavor, look no further than this Grilled Lemon Chicken.
Tender chicken is marinated in a mouthwatering blend of lemon juice, garlic, herbs, and olive oil, then grilled to juicy perfection. The citrus marinade infuses the meat with a tangy freshness while keeping it moist.
Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or just want a quick and healthy weeknight dinner, this grilled lemon chicken recipe is sure to become a staple in your cooking repertoire.
The simple ingredients and straightforward preparation make it accessible for cooks of all skill levels.
Pair the flavorful grilled chicken with your favorite summer sides like a crisp salad, grilled veggies, or fragrant rice pilaf for a complete meal that will have everyone coming back for seconds. So fire up that grill and get ready to savor the taste of summer!
Grilled Lemon Chicken Recipe
What it tastes like:
- Juicy, tender chicken with a slightly charred exterior
- Bright, lemony flavor that’s not overpowering
- Savory garlic and herb notes that complement the lemon perfectly
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Instructions:
- In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Place chicken in a shallow dish or resealable bag and pour the marinade over it.
- Marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for maximum flavor.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F).
- Remove chicken from marinade and discard any remaining liquid.
- Grill chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Extra tips:
- For even cooking, pound chicken breasts to an even thickness before marinating.
- Experiment with different herbs like rosemary, thyme, or basil for variety.
- Brush chicken with leftover marinade while grilling for extra flavor.
- Serve with grilled veggies, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- If using wooden skewers for kabobs, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.
- For even juicier chicken, brine the meat in a saltwater solution for a couple of hours before marinating. Dissolve 1/4 cup kosher salt in 4 cups water, add the chicken, and refrigerate.
- Experiment with different citrus fruits in your marinade like lime, orange, or grapefruit for a unique twist. A splash of white wine also adds nice depth of flavor.
- If you have leftovers, slice the grilled lemon chicken and serve over a Greek salad, in a wrap, or with pasta for an easy lunch.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F. This prevents overcooking and dry meat.
- Let the grilled chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute for maximum flavor and juiciness.
Final Verdict:
This Grilled Lemon Chicken recipe has quickly become a summer favorite in my household. The bright, citrusy flavors are so refreshing and pair perfectly with the smoky char from the grill.
I love how easy it is to customize with different herbs and seasonings based on your preferences or what you have on hand.
It’s a versatile dish that works great for both casual family dinners and impressive entertaining.
One of the best things about this recipe is how quick and simple it is to prepare. With just a few minutes of hands-on marinating time, you can achieve restaurant-quality results at home.
Grilling the chicken locks in the juices while imparting an irresistible flame-kissed flavor. Whether you choose to serve it sliced over salad, stuffed into sandwiches, or alongside your favorite summer sides, this zesty grilled chicken is guaranteed to be a hit.
It’s earned a permanent spot in my recipe rotation, and I have a feeling it will become one of your go-to grilling recipes too.
