Lemon and Herb Grilled Chicken

Lemon and Herb Grilled Chicken is a dish bursting with flavor that’s perfect for summer barbecues or a quick weeknight meal. The chicken breasts are marinated in a mixture of fresh lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and a blend of fragrant herbs such as rosemary and thyme, giving it a zesty and herbaceous taste. This dish can also be baked in the oven if you don’t have access to a grill, making it a versatile option for any cooking situation.

Why this recipe works

This Lemon and Herb Grilled Chicken recipe is a winner for several reasons. First and foremost, the marinade is the star of the show. The combination of fresh lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and black pepper creates a flavorful and tangy marinade that infuses the chicken with tons of flavor. The acidity in the lemon juice helps to tenderize the chicken, making it juicy and succulent. The fresh herbs add an aromatic and earthy note that’s balanced by the sweetness of the olive oil and the pungency of the garlic.

This recipe is also incredibly versatile. You can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, and you can cook it on a grill or in the oven. The marinade works just as well for baking as it does for grilling, so you don’t need a grill to make this recipe.

What is Lemon and Herb Grilled Chicken

Lemon and Herb Grilled Chicken is a dish made by marinating boneless, skinless chicken breasts in a mixture of fresh lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and black pepper, then grilling it until it’s cooked through and golden brown. The result is tender, juicy chicken with a tangy and flavorful exterior.

Best ingredients for Lemon and Herb Grilled Chicken

• Chicken breasts: Look for boneless, skinless chicken breasts that are around 6-8 ounces each. Avoid using chicken that’s too thin or too thick, as it can affect the cooking time.
• Fresh lemon juice: Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best flavor. Avoid using bottled lemon juice, as it can be bitter and lack freshness.
• Olive oil: Use extra-virgin olive oil for the best flavor. It’s important to use a good quality oil, as it will affect the taste of the marinade.
• Garlic: Use fresh garlic for the best flavor. You can mince it finely or use a garlic press.
• Fresh herbs: Use fresh rosemary and thyme for the best flavor. If you can’t find fresh herbs, you can use dried herbs, but the flavor won’t be as intense.
• Salt and black pepper: Use kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper for the best flavor.

How to make Lemon and Herb Grilled Chicken

Please note: This is just an overview – the full ingredients and directions are in the recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Step 1: Prep the marinade.

In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Ensure the ingredients are well combined.

Step 2: Marinate the chicken.

Place the chicken breasts in a shallow dish or large resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure it’s evenly coated. Cover the dish with plastic wrap or seal the bag, then refrigerate for at least 15 minutes or up to 2 hours. This step ensures that the chicken absorbs the flavors of the marinade.

Step 3: Preheat the grill.

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Ensure that the grill grates are clean and well-oiled to prevent the chicken from sticking.

Step 4: Grill the chicken.

Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard any remaining marinade. Grill the chicken breasts for 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use tongs to flip the chicken and ensure it cooks evenly on both sides.

Step 5: Rest the chicken.

Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the grill and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving. This step ensures that the juices are distributed throughout the meat, resulting in a juicy and flavorful chicken.

Step 6: Serve and enjoy.

After resting, slice the chicken and serve it with your preferred sides. You can serve it with a salad, grilled vegetables, or potatoes.

Storing and freezing tips

Storing:

• Allow the chicken to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container.
• Store it in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Reheat the chicken in the oven or microwave until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before consuming.

Freezing:

• Place the cooled chicken in a freezer-safe container or airtight freezer bag.
• Label the container or bag with the date and contents.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.
• To thaw the chicken, remove it from the freezer and place it in the fridge overnight or until fully thawed.
• Reheat the chicken in the oven or microwave until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before consuming.

Please note that freezing the chicken may affect its texture and flavor. It’s best to consume it within 1-2 months for the best taste and quality.

Top tips for the best Lemon and Herb Grilled Chicken

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh lemon juice, herbs, and garlic will give the chicken a bright, bold flavor that can’t be beaten. Make sure to use the freshest ingredients possible.
• Marinate for at least 15 minutes: Marinating the chicken for at least 15 minutes allows it to absorb the flavors of the marinade and results in a more flavorful and juicy chicken.
• Preheat your grill: Preheating your grill ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and prevents it from sticking to the grill grates. Make sure the grill grates are clean and well-oiled before cooking.
• Use a meat thermometer: To ensure that the chicken is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The chicken is safe to eat when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
• Let the chicken rest: Letting the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes after cooking allows the juices to distribute throughout the meat, resulting in a juicy and flavorful chicken.
• Experiment with different herbs: While this recipe calls for rosemary and thyme, you can experiment with different herbs to suit your taste. Basil, oregano, and parsley are all great options.
• Try baking the chicken: If you don’t have a grill, you can bake the chicken in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until cooked through.

Serving suggestions

Lemon and Herb Grilled Chicken is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of sides and can be served in different ways. Here are some serving suggestions to inspire you:

• Serve it with a salad: Lemon and Herb Grilled Chicken pairs perfectly with a fresh salad. Try serving it with a simple mixed greens salad with a lemon vinaigrette dressing.
• Add it to a sandwich: Slice the grilled chicken and add it to a sandwich with your favorite toppings, such as lettuce, tomato, avocado, and mayo.
• Serve it with grilled vegetables: Grilled vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, and onions, are the perfect side for Lemon and Herb Grilled Chicken. Grill them alongside the chicken for a complete and delicious meal.
• Make a pasta dish: Cut the grilled chicken into bite-sized pieces and toss with your favorite pasta and a simple olive oil and lemon dressing. Top with Parmesan cheese for a delicious and satisfying meal.
• Serve it with rice or potatoes: Lemon and Herb Grilled Chicken pairs well with rice or roasted potatoes for a comforting and satisfying meal.

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Polish version of this recipe available here.