Grilled Lemon Chicken is juicy and full of bright flavor! Marinated in tangy lemon juice and spices, it’s a simple dish that makes your mouth water with every bite.
Cooking this is easy! I love throwing it on the grill for that smoky taste. Pair it with a salad and you’re set for a tasty meal. Perfect for summer days! ☀️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for grilling because they cook evenly. If you prefer dark meat, chicken thighs work well too and tend to stay juicier!
Olive Oil: The olive oil in this recipe not only helps in marinating but also keeps the chicken moist while grilling. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use avocado oil instead.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice is best for flavor. However, if you’re in a pinch, bottled lemon juice can work too. Just make sure it’s not sweetened!
Garlic: Fresh garlic really elevates the dish. You can substitute with garlic powder, but you’ll need about 1/4 teaspoon to match the flavor of 2 fresh cloves.
Dried Oregano: Oregano adds a lovely herbal note. If you don’t have it, try dried thyme or Italian seasoning as a good alternative!
How Do You Marinate Chicken for Maximum Flavor?
Marination is key to getting that delicious taste! Here are essential steps to ensure your chicken absorbs all that yummy flavor:
- Mix your marinade thoroughly. A well-blended marinade ensures that each piece of chicken gets flavor evenly.
- Use a resealable plastic bag for marinating. This keeps the chicken coated and helps lock in flavor.
- Don’t rush the marination. For the best results, let it sit in the fridge for at least 2-4 hours. Overnight is even better, if you have time!
- Don’t forget to discard the marinade before grilling. That prevents burning and keeps your chicken from getting overly salty.
Following these steps will push your grilled lemon chicken from good to great! Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make Grilled Lemon Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Marinade:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
For Serving:
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and at least 30 minutes to marinate the chicken. If you have more time, letting it marinate for 2-4 hours will make it even tastier! Grill time is approximately 12-14 minutes. So, plan for about 40 minutes to 1 hour from start to finish, depending on your marination time.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Whisk everything together until well blended. This marinade will give your chicken loads of flavor!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece is well coated. Seal the bag if using or cover the dish with plastic wrap. Pop it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. If you have a bit more time, let it marinate for 2 to 4 hours to soak up all that delicious flavor.
3. Grill the Chicken:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Take the chicken out of the marinade and discard the leftover marinade. Grill the chicken for about 6 to 7 minutes on each side. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and you should see lovely grill marks.
4. Rest and Serve:
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps keep it juicy! Before serving, garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side. Enjoy your grilled lemon chicken with your favorite sides!
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Yes, you can absolutely use chicken thighs! They will be juicier and more flavorful, but make sure to adjust the grilling time accordingly, cooking thighs for about 7-8 minutes on each side or until they reach the safe internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
How Long Should I Marinate the Chicken?
For optimal flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but if you can, aim for 2-4 hours. For a quick option, even 15-30 minutes will work in a pinch, but the longer it marinates, the more delicious the chicken will be!
What Can I Serve with Grilled Lemon Chicken?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides! Consider serving it with a fresh salad, grilled vegetables, or a light grain like quinoa or rice. You can even add a refreshing tzatziki sauce for extra flavor!
How to Store Leftover Grilled Chicken?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, you can use the microwave or warm it gently in a skillet. You can also slice it up and add it to salads or wraps for a quick meal!
