This grilled chicken is juicy and packed with lemony goodness, thanks to the garlic. It’s a simple dish that’s perfect for sunny days or any night when you want something tasty!
If you love a bit of zing, this recipe is for you! I often make extra to use in salads or wraps. It’s so easy, you might find yourself grilling chicken way more often than planned!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for even cooking. If you prefer dark meat, chicken thighs work well too. They can be juicier and add more flavor to the dish.
Olive Oil: This adds richness to the marinade. If you don’t have olive oil, avocado oil or even vegetable oil can be good alternatives. Just avoid oils with strong flavors as they can overpower the dish.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is unbeatable! If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can substitute, but use about 1/3 the amount since it’s more concentrated.
Lemons: Fresh lemons are crucial for that bright flavor. If you don’t have fresh lemons, bottled lemon juice can be used, but the taste might not be as vibrant.
Herbs: Dried oregano and thyme add depth. Feel free to swap them for dried basil or Italian seasoning if you’re out. Fresh herbs can also be used—double the amount!
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken Is Juicy and Flavorsome?
Marinating the chicken is key to full flavor and tenderness. Letting it rest in the marinade allows the chicken to soak up those delicious flavors. Aim for at least 1 hour, but 4 hours is fantastic if you have the time!
- Combine all marinade ingredients in a bowl, whisk, and coat the chicken thoroughly.
- If using a bag, squeeze out excess air to ensure even marinating.
- When grilling, make sure to preheat your grill properly. This helps achieve those lovely grill marks and a crispy exterior.
- Always check the internal temperature; 165°F (75°C) is the sweet spot for safely cooked chicken.
Grilled Chicken Breasts With Lemon Garlic
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice of 2 lemons
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Lemon slices for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes for preparation and marinating, plus around 15-20 minutes for grilling. Plan for at least 1 hour of marinating time (up to 4 hours if you want even more flavor) before cooking. So, you’re looking at about 1 hour and 30 minutes total if you take the minimum marinating time.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Whisk everything together until it’s nicely blended. This will be your tasty marinade!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Take the chicken breasts and place them in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece gets a good coating. Once coated, seal the bag or cover the dish and pop it in the refrigerator. Let it marinate for at least 1 hour—if you can wait longer, up to 4 hours is even better!
3. Preheat the Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, get your grill going! Preheat it to medium-high heat, which is about 400°F (200°C). This is the perfect temperature for grilling chicken.
4. Prepare the Chicken for Grilling:
Take the chicken out of the refrigerator and let any excess marinade drip off. Make sure to throw away the marinade; it’s not safe to reuse it.
5. Grill the Chicken:
Place the chicken breasts on the hot grill. Grill for about 6-7 minutes on one side, then flip them over and grill for another 6-7 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
6. Grill the Lemon Slices:
During the last few minutes of grilling, add the lemon slices to the grill. Grill them for about 1-2 minutes on each side until they’re beautifully caramelized.
7. Let It Rest:
Once the chicken is cooked, take it off the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes. This helps the juices settle in, making the chicken super juicy!
8. Serve and Enjoy!
Plate the grilled chicken breasts and garnish them with the grilled lemon slices. You’re all set! Enjoy your delicious grilled lemon garlic chicken!
Can I Use Skin-On Chicken Breasts?
Absolutely! Skin-on chicken breasts will add extra flavor and moisture. Just remember that the skin will take longer to cook and may need more time on the grill. You might want to reduce the heat slightly to avoid burning the skin while ensuring the meat cooks through.
What Can I Substitute for Olive Oil?
If you don’t have olive oil, you can use other oils like avocado oil or canola oil. Each has its unique flavor, but they all work well for marinating and grilling. Just make sure to choose an oil with a high smoke point for grilling!
How Do I Store Leftover Grilled Chicken?
Leftover grilled chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To maximize freshness, let the chicken cool completely before sealing. When reheating, do so on low heat to prevent drying out, adding a splash of broth if necessary.
Can I Marinate the Chicken Overnight?
Yes, marinating the chicken overnight is a great way to enhance the flavor! Just be cautious with the lemon juice as it can make the chicken too tangy if marinated for too long. Try to limit the marinade time to around 12 hours for the best results.
