Introduction
Fire up the grill for this incredibly flavorful Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken! Marinated in a bright blend of fresh lemon, garlic, and herbs, this chicken comes out perfectly juicy with a slightly charred, aromatic crust. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or just craving a healthy, delicious protein, this recipe will become your go-to grilling masterpiece.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- 🍋 Bright & Zesty – Fresh lemon and herbs elevate simple chicken
- 🍗 Juicy & Tender – Never dry, thanks to the marinade
- ⏱️ Easy Prep – Mostly hands-off marinating time
- 🥗 Versatile – Great for salads, sandwiches, or as a main course
Ingredients You Will Need
(Serves 4)
For the Marinade:
- ¼ cup olive oil
- ¼ cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp honey or sugar (optional, for balance)
- Zest of 1 lemon
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or 6 thighs
- Extra herbs and lemon slices for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, herbs, salt, pepper, and honey (if using). Stir in lemon zest.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Place chicken in a resealable bag or shallow dish. Pour marinade over chicken, coating evenly. refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours).
Step 3: Preheat the Grill
Preheat grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F/200°C). Clean and oil grates to prevent sticking.
Step 4: Grill the Chicken
Remove chicken from marinade (discard excess marinade). Grill for 6-8 minutes per side, until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Step 5: Rest Before Serving
Transfer chicken to a plate, tent with foil, and let rest for 5 minutes. This keeps juices locked in.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Slice if desired, garnish with fresh herbs and lemon slices. Serve warm.
Pro Tips for Perfect Grilled Chicken
- 🔥 Even Thickness – Pound thicker parts of chicken breasts for even cooking
- 🕒 Don’t Over-Marinate – Acid in lemon juice can make texture mushy if too long
- 🌡️ Use a Thermometer – Ensure perfect doneness without overcooking
- 🍋 Fresh Herbs – They make a big difference vs. dried in the marinade
Serving Suggestions
- Over a green salad with lemon vinaigrette
- Sliced in sandwiches or wraps
- With grilled vegetables and quinoa
- Alongside pasta salad or corn on the cob
Marinating Times
- Minimum: 30 minutes
- Ideal: 2-4 hours
- Maximum: 8 hours (for boneless)
Dietary Information
- Gluten-Free: Naturally gluten-free
- Low-Carb: Perfect for keto and low-carb diets
- High-Protein: Excellent protein source
Conclusion
Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken is the ultimate summer staple that never fails to impress! With its vibrant flavors, juicy texture, and beautiful grill marks, it’s a healthy and delicious option for any occasion. Simple enough for weeknights but elegant enough for company – this recipe is sure to earn a permanent spot in your grilling rotation!