This grilled lemon chicken will brighten up your dinner plate! It’s juicy, zesty, and packed with flavor, thanks to a splash of fresh lemon juice and herbs.
Whenever I make this, I can’t help but enjoy the smell of lemon filling the air. Serve it with veggies or a light salad for a meal that feels sunny, even on a cloudy day! 🍋
Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the best for this recipe. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can use chicken thighs for juicier meat, or even tofu for a vegetarian version!
Olive Oil: This adds richness to the marinade. If you want to switch it up, avocado oil or canola oil work fine too and they have a high smoke point for grilling.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens the flavor. If you can’t find fresh lemons, bottled lemon juice is a good alternative, though fresh is always best for taste.
Garlic: Fresh garlic brings a bold flavor here. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can be used, but use less (about 1/3 tsp) as it’s more potent.
Oregano: Dried oregano is common, but fresh oregano is even better if you can find it. Just double the amount, as fresh herbs tend to be milder.
How Do You Ensure the Chicken is Juicy and Flavorful?
The key to juicy, flavorful grilled chicken is marinating it properly. Allowing the chicken to soak in the marinade for at least 30 minutes—ideally 2 hours—helps deepen the flavors. Here’s how to do it right:
- Whisk together the marinade ingredients well before adding the chicken to ensure even coating.
- Cover the bowl or use a zip-top bag to prevent spills and maintain freshness.
- Refrigerate the chicken for optimal flavor infusion, but avoid marinating too long (over 4 hours can make it mushy).
After marinating, remember to let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling. This helps the juices redistribute, ensuring each bite is tender and moist!
How to Make Grilled Lemon Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Marinade:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp lemon zest (from about 1 lemon)
- 2 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
For The Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
For Garnishing and Serving:
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon slices (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare, plus at least 30 minutes to marinate the chicken. If you have the time, letting it sit in the marinade for 2 hours will enhance the flavor even more. The cooking will take around 14 minutes on the grill. So, in total, plan for about 44 minutes (or more if you choose to marinate longer).
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, lemon zest, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. This mixture creates a delicious marinade that will infuse flavor into the chicken.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the boneless, skinless chicken breasts to the marinade, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate. For the best flavor, let it sit for at least 30 minutes, but if you can, marinate for up to 2 hours.
3. Grill the Chicken:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard any leftover marinade. To prevent sticking, lightly oil the grill grates. Place the chicken on the grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side. The chicken is done when it’s cooked through and has nice grill marks, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F.
4. Rest and Serve:
Once cooked, take the chicken off the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, making every bite tender and juicy. Serve the grilled lemon chicken garnished with freshly chopped parsley and lemon slices on the side. Enjoy your flavorful meal!
Can I Use Bone-In Chicken Instead?
Yes, you can! Just remember that bone-in chicken will take longer to cook. Grill the chicken for about 10-12 minutes per side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. It’s a good idea to check for doneness with a meat thermometer for accuracy.
Can I Marinate the Chicken Overnight?
Absolutely! Marinating the chicken overnight will enhance the flavor even more. Just be careful not to exceed 24 hours, as the acidity in the lemon juice can start to break down the chicken, making it mushy.
What Can I Substitute for Olive Oil?
If you don’t have olive oil, you can use avocado oil or vegetable oil as a great substitute. Both options provide a similar richness and can handle the high heat of grilling well.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it in the microwave or on the grill, adding a splash of lemon juice or a bit of olive oil to maintain moisture.
