Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken Recipe

Introduction

Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken is the epitome of a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re grilling in the backyard on a warm summer evening, preparing a family dinner, or planning a healthy meal prep for the week, this recipe will deliver a juicy, aromatic chicken with a perfect balance of citrusy brightness and herbal freshness. The marinade, made with fresh lemon juice, zesty lemon zest, and a variety of aromatic herbs, infuses the chicken with amazing flavor while keeping it moist and tender during grilling.

This dish is as versatile as it is delicious—it pairs perfectly with a wide range of sides like grilled vegetables, roasted potatoes, or a fresh salad. Plus, it’s a healthy and light option for those watching their calorie intake or seeking a nutritious protein source. Whether you’re a grilling pro or a beginner, this Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken recipe is easy to follow and guarantees a mouthwatering result every time.

Why You’ll Love Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken

• Bright, Zesty Flavor: The fresh lemon juice and zest offer a refreshing, tangy punch that enhances the flavor of the chicken. The citrusy profile is complemented by the aromatic herbs, giving each bite a burst of freshness.
• Juicy and Tender Chicken: The marinade not only adds flavor but also helps to tenderize the chicken, making it juicy and moist when grilled.
• Quick and Easy: This recipe doesn’t require complex techniques, making it suitable for both beginner and experienced cooks. You can prepare the marinade in minutes and let the chicken soak up the flavors while you relax or prep other parts of the meal.
• Healthy Option: Grilled chicken is a lean source of protein that’s naturally low in fat. The fresh herbs and lemon provide extra vitamins and antioxidants, making it a nutritious and light choice.
• Versatile for Any Occasion: Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, a weekend BBQ, or even prepping meals for the week, this Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken is always a hit. It’s perfect for summer cookouts, light dinners, or even meal prepping for lunches.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes (including marinade time)
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 280-320 calories per serving, depending on portion size and ingredients.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 280-320 kcal
• Fat: 15-20g
• Carbohydrates: 2-4g
• Protein: 35-40g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 1-2g

Ingredients

For the Lemon Herb Marinade:

• ¼ cup olive oil
• 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest (about 1 lemon)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons fresh rosemary, finely chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried rosemary)
• 2 teaspoons fresh thyme, finely chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
• 1 teaspoon fresh oregano, finely chopped (or ½ teaspoon dried oregano)
• 1 teaspoon honey (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6-8 oz each)
• Fresh herbs (optional for garnish): additional thyme, rosemary, or parsley

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Lemon Herb Marinade

In a medium bowl, combine the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, and lemon zest. The lemon juice and zest will provide that signature zesty, citrus-forward flavor that makes this chicken so refreshing.

Add the minced garlic to the bowl. Fresh garlic adds an aromatic punch that enhances the herbal flavors in the marinade.

Next, add the finely chopped fresh herbs. Rosemary, thyme, and oregano are perfect for this marinade, contributing an earthy, fragrant note that complements the bright lemon. If you’re using dried herbs, you can adjust the quantities slightly, as dried herbs tend to be more concentrated in flavor.

For a bit of sweetness and balance, stir in the honey (optional). The honey will also help with caramelization during grilling.

Season the marinade with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Whisk everything together until it’s well combined, and the honey is dissolved (if used).

2. Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken breasts in a large ziplock bag or a shallow bowl. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring that the chicken is evenly coated on all sides. Seal the bag or cover the bowl with plastic wrap.

Refrigerate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but ideally, let it marinate for 1 to 2 hours. The longer the chicken marinates, the more the flavors will infuse, making the chicken even more flavorful. If you’re pressed for time, you can even marinate it for just 20-30 minutes, but extended marination will yield the best results.

3. Preheat the Grill

While the chicken is marinating, preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F or 200°C). If you’re using a gas grill, turn on all burners to medium-high. If you’re using charcoal, allow the coals to burn down until they are covered in white ash.

Lightly oil the grill grates with a paper towel dipped in vegetable oil to prevent the chicken from sticking. This will help create those beautiful grill marks on the chicken.

4. Grill the Chicken

Once the grill is preheated, remove the chicken from the marinade. Discard any leftover marinade that has touched raw chicken (for food safety reasons).

Place the chicken breasts on the grill and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side. Use tongs to flip the chicken halfway through to ensure even cooking. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (75°C) when checked with a meat thermometer.

While grilling, resist the urge to press down on the chicken with a spatula, as this will release the juices and make the chicken dry. Just let the heat do its job.

5. Check for Doneness

After 12-14 minutes of grilling, check the internal temperature of the chicken using a meat thermometer. If it reaches 165°F (75°C), it’s done. If you don’t have a thermometer, you can cut into the thickest part of the chicken to make sure the juices run clear and the meat is no longer pink.

6. Rest the Chicken

Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, keeping the chicken moist and tender.

7. Garnish and Serve

After resting, slice the chicken if desired or serve whole. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley, rosemary, or thyme for an extra burst of color and flavor.

Serve your Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken with your favorite sides like a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, rice, or grilled potatoes for a complete meal.

Tips for Perfect Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken

• Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs provide a more vibrant and aromatic flavor than dried herbs. If possible, opt for fresh rosemary, thyme, and oregano in this marinade.
• Don’t Skip the Marinating Step: The longer the chicken marinates, the more tender and flavorful it will become. While 30 minutes is the minimum, aim for 1-2 hours for the best results.
• Grill at the Right Temperature: Make sure your grill is preheated to medium-high heat before adding the chicken. If the heat is too low, the chicken may cook unevenly. If it’s too high, the outside will burn before the inside is cooked.
• Let the Chicken Rest: After grilling, allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes before serving. This will help keep the chicken juicy and prevent it from drying out when sliced.
• Add a Little Extra Lemon: For an extra citrusy punch, squeeze a little lemon juice over the chicken just before serving.

Variations of Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken

• Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken with Asparagus: Marinate the chicken as usual and serve it alongside grilled asparagus spears. The fresh lemon flavor will enhance both the chicken and the vegetables.
• Lemon Basil Grilled Chicken: Swap out the rosemary, thyme, and oregano for fresh basil in the marinade for a more Mediterranean flavor profile. The basil complements the lemon nicely and adds a lovely aromatic quality to the chicken.
• Spicy Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken: Add some heat to the marinade by including a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a chopped fresh chili pepper. The heat will balance out the lemon’s tartness and make for a bolder flavor.
• Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken Skewers: Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and skewer them before grilling. This is perfect for serving at a party or BBQ. Just be sure to soak the wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent them from burning.
• Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken with Feta and Olives: Serve the grilled chicken with a fresh Greek salad featuring crumbled feta, Kalamata olives, cucumbers, and tomatoes. This is a delicious Mediterranean-inspired twist on the classic Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken.

Storage and Shelf Life

Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

For longer storage, freeze the cooked chicken. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil, and place it in a freezer-safe bag. Frozen grilled chicken can last for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight and then warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken

Pair this Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken with a variety of complementary sides:

• Grilled Vegetables: Pair with grilled zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms for a well-rounded meal.
• Rice Pilaf: A light rice pilaf with herbs, lemon zest, and slivered almonds complements the citrusy flavors of the chicken.
• Greek Salad: A refreshing Greek salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta provides a crisp contrast to the juicy chicken.
• Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes with garlic and rosemary make a hearty and satisfying side dish.
• Corn on the Cob: Sweet, grilled corn on the cob with a touch of butter and a squeeze of lime is a perfect summer accompaniment.

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Conclusion

Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken is a simple, flavorful, and healthy dish that will become a favorite in your meal rotation. With a fresh and aromatic marinade, this grilled chicken is juicy, tender, and bursting with citrusy goodness. Whether you’re grilling for a family dinner, a BBQ with friends, or prepping meals for the week, this recipe delivers every time. Enjoy the vibrant flavors and versatility of Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken, and make it a staple for all your grilling occasions!