Craving a delicious and healthy chicken recipe that’s bursting with flavor? This Grilled Lemon Garlic Chicken is incredibly easy to make and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a summer barbecue. You’ll love how juicy and tender each bite is.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well too.
- Lemons: Fresh lemon juice is best; avoid bottled.
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic provides the best flavor.
- Herbs: Dried oregano or Italian seasoning can replace fresh thyme.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs total)
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (from 1-2 lemons)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Marinating time: 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours)
- Cook time: 10-12 minutes
- Total time: 55-57 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories per serving: Approximately 250
- Tools needed: Grill, shallow dish or resealable bag, tongs
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare Your Chicken
Pat your chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps the marinade stick better and ensures a good sear. You can also lightly pound thicker parts of the chicken to an even thickness for uniform cooking.
2. Make the Marinade
In a shallow dish or a resealable bag, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. This simple marinade is key to tender, flavorful chicken.
3. Marinate the Chicken
Add the chicken breasts to the marinade, ensuring each piece is fully coated. Cover the dish or seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. For even more flavor, you can marinate for up to 4 hours, which makes this one of those perfect healthy chicken recipes for meal prep.
4. Preheat Your Grill
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F or 200°C). Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking. This is an important step for perfect grilling.
5. Grill the Chicken
Place the marinated chicken on the hot grill. Cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) using a meat thermometer. Avoid overcooking to keep your chicken juicy.
6. Rest and Serve
Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest on a cutting board for 5 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring tender, flavorful healthy chicken recipes every time.
Variation Ideas
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade for some heat.
- Herbaceous: Experiment with other fresh herbs like rosemary or basil in the marinade.
- Citrus Burst: Include a little lemon zest along with the juice for a more intense lemon flavor.
- Smoky Flavor: Add 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika to the marinade.
Storage Instructions
Store leftover Grilled Lemon Garlic Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, you can microwave it briefly, warm it in a skillet over medium heat, or bake it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, ensuring it remains a delightful healthy chicken recipe.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I bake this chicken instead of grilling?
Yes, you can bake it at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
How do I know when the chicken is done?
The best way is to use a meat thermometer; it should register 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part.
Can I prepare the marinade ahead of time?
Yes, you can mix the marinade ingredients a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator.
What side dishes pair well with this chicken?
Roasted vegetables, quinoa, a fresh green salad, or rice are all excellent choices.
Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
You can freeze the cooked chicken in an airtight container for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
What if I don’t have fresh lemons?
Fresh is always best for flavor, but if absolutely necessary, you can use bottled lemon juice, though the taste may differ slightly.
