This Grilled Lemon Chicken is bursting with flavor! The chicken is marinated in a yummy blend of lemon juice, garlic, and herbs, then grilled to perfection. Juicy and light, it’s perfect for warm days.
I love serving it with a side of fresh veggies or some rice. It’s simple to make, and honestly, who doesn’t love a dish that makes you feel like a grilling pro? 🌞
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for grilling. If you prefer, you can use thighs for more flavor and moisture. Just adjust the cooking time as thighs may take a bit longer.
Olive Oil: It’s great for marinating and grilling. If you’d like a lighter flavor, you could swap it for avocado oil or grapeseed oil, which also has a high smoke point for grilling.
Fresh Lemon Juice and Zest: Fresh lemons are key for depth of flavor. If you don’t have fresh lemons, bottled lemon juice works in a pinch, but the zest won’t be as vibrant. Always choose fresh where possible for the best taste.
Honey: This adds a touch of sweetness to balance the acidity of the lemon. Agave syrup or maple syrup can work as good substitutes if you want an alternative sweetener.
Dried Oregano: Oregano is a classic choice for this recipe. If you don’t have it, try using Italian seasoning or herbes de Provence for a different herbal twist!
How Do I Get Juicy Grilled Chicken Every Time?
To achieve juicy chicken, marinating is key. You want to allow the chicken to soak in the flavors for at least 30 minutes, but 4 hours gives the best results. This also helps to tenderize the meat!
- Make sure to coat the chicken well in the marinade.
- Don’t skip the resting time after grilling! Letting it rest for 5 minutes allows the juices to redistribute.
- Ensure your grill is preheated to medium-high heat, which helps get those beautiful grill marks and sear the chicken, locking in the juices.
How to Make Grilled Lemon Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
For the Marinade:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 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 recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and 30 minutes to 4 hours for marinating. You will also need about 15 minutes for grilling. So, overall, it can be ready in as little as 55 minutes or as long as 4 hours, depending on how long you choose to marinate the chicken.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a large bowl, take the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, honey, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Whisk everything together until well mixed. This marinade is packed with flavor!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the chicken breasts to the bowl and make sure they are coated well with the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and pop it into the fridge. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes. If you have time, letting it sit for up to 4 hours will boost the flavors even more!
3. Prepare the Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Use a little oil on a paper towel to lightly grease the grill grates. This step helps prevent the chicken from sticking.
4. Grill the Chicken:
Take the chicken out of the marinade and let any excess drip off. Discard the leftover marinade. Place the chicken on the grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side. You’re looking for a nice golden color and grill marks, and the chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to be safe to eat.
5. Let it Rest and Serve:
Once the chicken is done, take it off the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This resting time helps keep the chicken juicy. Finally, garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon slices on the side. Enjoy your delicious grilled lemon chicken!
Can I Use Other Types of Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! This marinade works well with bone-in chicken thighs or drumsticks. Just increase the grilling time to ensure the chicken is fully cooked through. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safety.
What if I Don’t Have Olive Oil?
No problem! You can substitute olive oil with any other cooking oil you have on hand, such as avocado oil or vegetable oil. Each type of oil will bring a slightly different flavor, so choose one that you enjoy!
How Long Can I Marinate the Chicken?
For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but you can marinate it for up to 4 hours. If you marinate longer than that, consider using a non-acidic marinade or reducing the amount of lemon juice to prevent the chicken from becoming too tough.
Can I Store Leftover Grilled Chicken?
Yes! Store any leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can enjoy it cold in salads or sandwiches, or reheat it on the grill or in a microwave until warmed thoroughly. Just be sure not to overheat it to keep it moist!
