These grilled chicken breasts with lemon and garlic are simply mouthwatering! The chicken is juicy and packed with a zesty flavor that brightens every bite.
If you’re like me, you’ll love the smell of garlic sizzling on the grill. It’s a quick and easy meal that pairs perfectly with a fresh salad—dinner is sorted!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe as they cook quickly and stay juicy. If you’re looking for alternatives, turkey cutlets or chicken thighs can work too—they may add a bit more flavor.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is my favorite for its rich flavor and health benefits. If you’re allergic or out of stock, avocado oil or canola oil are good substitutes, although they’ll alter the taste slightly.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives a bold taste. If you don’t have fresh cloves, you can use garlic powder—about 1/8 teaspoon per clove. Just remember it won’t be as strong, so adjust according to your taste.
Lemon Juice & Zest: Fresh lemon juice and zest brighten dishes beautifully. If fresh lemons are unavailable, use bottled juice, but use it sparingly as it can be more concentrated.
Dried Herbs: Oregano and thyme add great depth. If you prefer fresh herbs, use three times the amount. You can also try substituting with Italian seasoning if that’s what you have on hand.
How Can I Grill Chicken Breasts Without Them Becoming Dry?
Grilling chicken can be tricky if you want to keep it juicy. The key here is to marinate your chicken for at least 30 minutes but no more than 4 hours. This helps retain moisture, thanks to the oil and acid from the lemon juice.
- Preheat the grill thoroughly. A hot grill will sear the chicken and lock in juices.
- Don’t skip oiling the grates. This step helps prevent sticking and provides nice grill marks.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Chicken is safe to eat when it reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling. Resting lets the juices redistribute, making for a tastier bite.
How to Make Grilled Chicken Breasts With Lemon Garlic
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Grilling:
- 1 lemon, sliced (for grilling)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and at least 30 minutes to marinate the chicken. You will spend around 15 minutes grilling the chicken. So, in total, plan for about 55 minutes from start to finish, including marinating time.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Whisk them together until everything is well mixed. This flavorful marinade is what will make your chicken delicious!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Take your chicken breasts and place them in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece is nicely coated. If you’re using a bag, seal it tightly. If using a dish, cover it well. Pop the chicken in the refrigerator and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes. For the best flavor, you can let it sit up to 4 hours!
3. Preheat the Grill:
About 10 minutes before you’re ready to grill, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This helps get those perfect grill marks. Use a paper towel to oil the grates gently, which will help prevent sticking. It’s an easy trick to keep your chicken intact!
4. Grill the Chicken:
When the grill is ready, take the chicken out of the marinade and discard the leftover marinade. Place the chicken breasts on the grill and let them cook for about 6-7 minutes on one side without moving them. This gives them a chance to sear and get nice grill marks.
5. Flip and Add Lemon Slices:
After 6-7 minutes, flip the chicken breasts over. Lay the lemon slices directly on the grill beside the chicken. Grill the chicken for another 6-7 minutes or until the chicken is completely cooked. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) to ensure it’s safely cooked.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the chicken is grilled and has those lovely marks, remove it and the lemon slices from the grill. Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve the grilled chicken topped with the grilled lemon slices for an extra burst of flavor. Enjoy your tasty meal!
Can I Use Olive Oil Substitutes?
Yes! If you don’t have olive oil, you can use other oils like avocado oil or canola oil, which also work well for grilling. Just keep in mind that the flavor may vary slightly, so choose an oil that complements your taste.
How Do I Marinate Chicken Quickly?
If you’re short on time, you can marinate the chicken for as little as 15-20 minutes. For the best flavor, ensure the marinade is well distributed around the chicken. If you have a meat mallet, gently pound the chicken to help it absorb the marinade faster.
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and can add more flavor to the dish. Just adjust the cooking time as thighs may take a few extra minutes to reach the safe internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Grilled Chicken?
Store leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or on the grill for a few minutes until heated through. Adding a splash of lemon juice can help revive the flavors!
