This grilled lemon chicken is juicy, zesty, and oh-so-easy to make! The bright lemon flavor brings everything to life, making it a perfect dish for any meal.
I love how just a few simple ingredients can create such a tasty dinner. Pair it with a side salad and you’ve got a fresh and delightful meal ready in no time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great here. If you’re looking for a leaner option, turkey breasts can work. For more flavor, try using chicken thighs. They stay juicier and are often more forgiving on the grill.
Olive Oil: This adds richness to the marinade. If you want a lighter option, avocado oil can be a great substitute. I prefer extra virgin olive oil for its taste, but regular olive oil will also do the job.
Lemon Juice and Zest: Fresh lemons are key for brightening the dish. If you don’t have fresh lemons, bottled lemon juice works, but it won’t be as vibrant. Always zest the lemon before juicing—it’s a simple way to get extra flavor!
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can be used. However, I highly recommend sticking to fresh for the most aromatic taste.
Fresh Parsley: This adds a fresh touch. If you don’t have parsley, basil or cilantro can work well too. They’ll bring their own unique flavors to the dish.
How Do I Grill the Chicken Perfectly?
Getting beautifully grilled chicken requires a few simple steps. First, make sure your grill is properly heated. This is essential for achieving those lovely grill marks and preventing sticking.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat for about 10-15 minutes.
- When placing the chicken on the grill, don’t move it around too much. Let it sit for 6-7 minutes on one side.
- Flip the chicken and grill for another 6-7 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to check that it reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Always let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling; this helps keep it juicy!
How to Make Grilled Lemon Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade and Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon slices (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 10 minutes of prep time for the marinade and chicken, plus at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours) for marinating. Cooking on the grill will take about 15 minutes. Overall, you’re looking at a total of about 1 hour if you let it marinate for the shorter time.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
Start by taking a medium bowl and whisking together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, chopped parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper. This mixture is the flavorful marinade that will tenderize the chicken and give it that delicious lemony taste!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Next, place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it’s well-coated. If using a bag, seal it tightly; if using a dish, cover it. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, but if you have time, letting it marinate for 2-4 hours will give you even more flavor.
3. Prepare the Grill and Cook:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Take the chicken out of the marinade and discard any leftover marinade to keep things safe and tasty. Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side. You’re looking for nice grill marks and that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure it’s fully cooked.
4. Let It Rest and Serve:
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the chicken nice and moist. Serve your juicy grilled lemon chicken garnished with fresh lemon slices and a sprinkle of parsley. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will provide a juicier and more flavorful result. Just adjust the grilling time to about 8-10 minutes per side, since thighs may take a little longer to cook through. As always, ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Lemons?
No problem! You can use bottled lemon juice as a substitute. Use about 2 tablespoons of lemon juice per lemon for a similar flavor. Just be aware that fresh lemons provide a brighter flavor, especially with the zest!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance. Just be sure to keep the chicken refrigerated during this time to ensure food safety. This way, the flavors will infuse even more!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently in the microwave or on a skillet over medium heat to retain its juiciness.
