These grilled chicken breasts are bright and zesty, thanks to the lemon and garlic. They’re juicy, flavorful, and perfect for a quick dinner or a summer barbecue!
Honestly, I can’t get enough of that lemony goodness! Pair it with a simple salad, and you’ve got yourself a meal that’s both tasty and refreshing. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe as they stay juicy when grilled. If you want, you can use chicken thighs for a richer flavor.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is best for its flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter option, avocado oil also works well.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic brings a great punch. However, if you’re short on time, pre-minced garlic or garlic powder can be used, but use less of it as it’s more concentrated.
Lemon: Fresh lemon juice and zest brighten up the dish. If you have lemon juice from a bottle, that’s fine too, though fresh is always tastier. Lime can be a fun substitute for a different twist.
Dried Oregano: Dried oregano adds a Mediterranean flair. You can switch it with dried thyme or Italian seasoning if needed.
How Do I Marinate Chicken for the Best Flavor?
The marinating step is crucial for this recipe. Marinating the chicken allows the flavors to penetrate, making it more delicious. Here’s how you can do it:
- Combine olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, juice, oregano, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Whisk well.
- Place chicken in a resealable bag or dish and pour the marinade over it. Ensure it’s well coated.
- Seal the bag or cover the dish, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, but 4 hours is even better for deeper flavor.
Remember, don’t reuse the marinade after it’s touched raw chicken. Always discard it to stay safe!
How to Make Grilled Chicken Breasts With Lemon Garlic
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Lemon slices for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty grilled chicken takes about 10 minutes to prep and at least 30 minutes to marinate. You’ll spend around 15 minutes grilling. So, in total, you’re looking at about 55 minutes, mostly letting it chill in the refrigerator for that delicious flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix it well until everything is combined and looks nice and smooth. This marinade is what’ll give your chicken amazing flavor!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Take the chicken breasts and place them in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the fresh marinade over the chicken, making sure they are well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish, then pop it in the refrigerator to chill for at least 30 minutes. If you have a little extra time, let the chicken marinate for up to 4 hours for even more flavor.
3. Prep the Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you’re using a grill pan, simply heat it on the stovetop over medium-high heat. This is crucial to get those delicious grill marks!
4. Grill the Chicken:
Take the marinated chicken out of the fridge. Discard any leftover marinade. Now it’s time to place the chicken on the grill. Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side. You want to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for it to be fully cooked. For a delightful touch, add lemon slices to the grill during the last few minutes—this will enhance the flavor and make a pretty garnish!
5. Rest and Serve:
Once the chicken is done, carefully remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This step allows the juices to settle in the chicken, making it juicy and flavorful. Serve your grilled chicken garnished with the grilled lemon slices for a fresh touch. Enjoy every bite with your favorite sides!
Can I Use Bone-In Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use bone-in chicken breasts, but they will require a longer cooking time. Aim for about 8-10 minutes per side over medium-high heat, ensuring they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). You might also want to cover the grill with a lid to help them cook evenly.
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Garlic?
No worries! You can substitute fresh garlic with 1/8 teaspoon of garlic powder for each clove. So for this recipe, use about 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder if you’re out of fresh garlic. Just remember that the flavor may be slightly different but still delicious!
How Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the marinade and coat the chicken in it, then refrigerate for up to 4 hours before grilling. If you want to marinate it overnight, that’s even better for flavor! Simply cover the chicken tightly in the marinade and keep it refrigerated until you’re ready to cook.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on a skillet over low heat. You can add a splash of water and cover it to keep it moist while reheating!
