This Grilled Lemon Chicken is a fresh and tasty dish that’s perfect for sunny days. The chicken is marinated in lemon juice and herbs, making it juicy and zesty!
I love how easy it is to fire up the grill and get this on my plate. Plus, the smell of lemon while it cooks is just heavenly! 🌞
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for grilling. If you’re looking for a leaner option, turkey cutlets work nicely too. For a richer flavor, thighs could be a tasty substitute.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is preferred for its flavor, but you can use any vegetable oil if you’re looking for something lighter or if olive oil isn’t available.
Lemon Juice: Fresh juice from lemons adds brightness. If you’re in a pinch, bottled lemon juice can work, but fresh is always better for flavor. Try using limes for a different zing!
Honey: This adds a touch of sweetness. You can substitute agave syrup or maple syrup if you want a vegan option.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is a must for depth of flavor, but garlic powder can be used if that’s what you have on hand. Just use about 1/4 teaspoon for each clove.
How Can I Get Juicy Grilled Chicken?
The secret to juicy grilled chicken is the marinating process. Marinating not only adds flavor but also helps to tenderize the meat. A good marinade needs acid (like lemon juice), oil, and seasonings, just like in this recipe.
- Mix your marinade ingredients well and let the chicken soak for at least 30 minutes. For best results, aim for 2-4 hours in the refrigerator.
- Preheat your grill and make sure it’s hot before adding the chicken. A good sear creates beautiful grill marks and locks in moisture.
- Cook the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy. Avoid overcooking to keep it moist!
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling to allow juices to redistribute. This keeps it juicy when you cut into it!
How to Make Grilled Lemon Chicken?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For Garnishing:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon slices
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious grilled lemon chicken takes about 10 minutes of prep time, plus at least 30 minutes for marinating (longer is better for more flavor). You’ll need a total of about 30-45 minutes for grilling and letting the chicken rest before serving. Perfect for a quick and tasty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, honey, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. This flavorful mix will make the chicken juicy and delicious!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Take the chicken breasts and place them in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure all sides are coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and pop it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. If you have time, letting it marinate for 2-4 hours will make it even tastier!
3. Get the Grill Ready:
While the chicken is marinating, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This will ensure that the chicken cooks evenly and gets those beautiful grill marks.
4. Grill the Chicken:
Once your grill is hot and the chicken is ready, take the breasts out of the marinade and discard the marinade. Place the chicken on the grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side. You want the chicken to reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure it’s fully cooked.
5. Let It Rest:
After grilling, remove the chicken from the grill and let it sit for a few minutes. This resting time allows the juices to redistribute, making your chicken even juicier!
6. Garnish and Serve:
Finally, sprinkle the grilled chicken with chopped parsley and serve alongside lemon slices for that zesty touch. Enjoy your delicious Grilled Lemon Chicken!
Can I Use Bone-in Chicken Instead of Boneless?
Absolutely! Bone-in chicken breasts can add extra flavor and juiciness. Just be aware that they will take longer to cook, about 10-12 minutes per side. Always check for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure they are cooked through.
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Lemons?
No problem! You can substitute fresh lemon juice with bottled lemon juice at a 1:1 ratio. Just keep in mind that fresh lemons usually have a brighter flavor, so you might want to add a touch more honey to balance the acidity.
How Should I Store Leftover Grilled Lemon Chicken?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave or on a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of olive oil to help keep them moist.
Can I Marinate the Chicken Overnight?
Definitely! Marinating the chicken overnight will give it even more flavor. Just make sure to keep it in the refrigerator and use it within 24 hours for the best taste and freshness.
