Imagine biting into a juicy, lemon herb grilled chicken that dances on your taste buds. The zesty aroma wafts through the air, teasing your senses and whispering promises of summer barbecues and family gatherings. It’s like a culinary hug that warms your soul while brightening any dull day. For more inspiration, check out this dinner recipes recipe.
Now, picture this: you’ve invited friends over for dinner, and as they step onto your patio, they’re greeted with the tantalizing scent of marinated chicken sizzling on the grill. Their eyes widen in anticipation as they realize they’ve stumbled into a flavor paradise. Trust me; this dish is destined to become the star of your next gathering.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This lemon herb grilled chicken recipe is quick and easy, making it perfect for weeknight dinners
- Its vibrant flavors will impress your guests without leaving you frazzled in the kitchen
- The beautiful golden-brown color adds visual appeal, making each plate pop
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to serve with salads, rice, or even in wraps
One summer evening, I whipped up this lemon herb grilled chicken for an impromptu barbecue. My friends couldn’t stop raving about how tender and flavorful it was—one even suggested I should open a restaurant.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use about 3-4 chicken breasts; adjust based on how many hungry mouths you’re feeding.
Olive Oil: A good-quality extra virgin olive oil adds richness and depth to the marinade.
Fresh Lemons: Choose bright yellow lemons for juicing; their freshness elevates the entire dish.
Garlic Cloves: Fresh cloves provide a robust flavor; avoid pre-minced varieties for better results.
Fresh Herbs (Thyme and Parsley): These herbs lend a fragrant aroma; use fresh whenever possible for maximum impact.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for enhancing all flavors; season generously but taste as you go.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken
Prepare the Marinade: In a mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, chopped thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper until well combined. The mixture should be fragrant and inviting.
Add Chicken to Marinade: Place chicken breasts in a large resealable bag or bowl. Pour the marinade over them, ensuring every piece is coated well. Seal or cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to penetrate the meat.
Preheat Your Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375°F/190°C). Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking—nobody likes shredded chicken.
Grill the Chicken: Remove chicken from marinade and place on hot grill. Cook each side for about 6-7 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). You’ll know it’s done when it has lovely grill marks.
Rest Before Serving: Once cooked through, transfer chicken to a plate and let it rest for 5 minutes. This allows juices to redistribute—resulting in juicy perfection.
Slicing and Serving Up.: Slice chicken against the grain for tender pieces. Serve with your favorite sides like fresh salad or roasted veggies for a complete meal that screams “dinner party.”
Now that you have this delightful lemon herb grilled chicken in your culinary arsenal, get ready for some serious compliments.
You Must Know
- This delicious Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken is not just a meal; it’s a flavor-packed experience
- The zesty aroma fills the kitchen, and the juicy tenderness of the chicken makes it unforgettable
- Perfect for summer barbecues or cozy family dinners, it’s a true crowd-pleaser
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by marinating the chicken for at least an hour. Then preheat your grill to medium-high before placing the chicken on it. Grill each side for about 6-7 minutes until fully cooked.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap lemon with lime for a twist. Add fresh herbs like basil or parsley, or even toss in some chili flakes if you crave heat.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F to retain moisture and prevent dryness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Marinate overnight for deeper flavor infusion
- Always let the chicken rest after grilling; this keeps it juicy
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness at 165°F
I once served this Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken at a family reunion, and everyone raved about it. My uncle even asked for the recipe—what an honor.
FAQ
What is the best way to marinate chicken?
Marinate your chicken in a zip-top bag to ensure even coating and maximum flavor absorption.
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, but thaw it completely before marinating and grilling for optimal results.
How do I know when my chicken is done?
Use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F for safety and juiciness.
Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken is the ultimate summer dish that brings a burst of flavor to your table. Marinated in a zesty blend of fresh herbs, olive oil, and citrus, this tender chicken is grilled to perfection, creating an irresistible aroma that will have everyone gathering around. Perfect for barbecues or weeknight dinners, this easy recipe ensures you can impress your guests without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- Juice of 2 fresh lemons
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper.
- Marinate Chicken: Place chicken breasts in a resealable bag or bowl and pour the marinade over them. Seal or cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high (375°F). Lightly oil the grates.
- Grill Chicken: Remove chicken from marinade and grill for about 6-7 minutes per side until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Rest and Serve: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing against the grain. Serve with your favorite sides.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 grilled chicken breast (about 6 oz)
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 85mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 105mg
Keywords: For deeper flavor infusion, marinate overnight. Experiment by swapping lemon with lime or adding chili flakes for heat. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to four days; reheat gently at 350°F.
