This grilled chicken is juicy and packed with flavor from zesty lemon and garlic. It’s simple to make and perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner!
I love how quickly it cooks on the grill. Pair it with some veggies for a colorful plate, and you’ve got a meal that feels fancy but is super easy! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great because they cook evenly and stay juicy. If you’re looking for a leaner option, turkey breast can work, or use bone-in chicken for more flavor, but adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Olive Oil: This adds flavor and helps to keep the chicken moist while grilling. If you’re out of olive oil, avocado oil is a great alternative with a high smoke point. You can also use vegetable oil, but it won’t provide the same rich taste.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is the star here, giving the chicken a bold flavor. If you don’t have fresh garlic, you can use garlic powder, about 1 teaspoon should suffice. Just remember that garlic powder is more concentrated.
Lemon: The juice and zest bring brightness to the dish. If you’re in a pinch, lime juice can be a great substitute. For a twist, try orange juice for a different flavor profile, but keep the zest for that zing!
Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley adds a lovely color and freshness. If you don’t have it, you can skip it or use other herbs like cilantro or basil. Each will give a unique twist to your chicken!
How Do I Get Perfect Grill Marks and Juicy Chicken?
Grilling can be tricky, but with some attention, you can achieve beautifully grilled chicken. First, make sure your grill is preheated properly; a hot grill is key! Here are a few tips:
- Let the chicken sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before grilling. This helps it cook evenly.
- When placing chicken on the grill, don’t flip it too early. Cook on one side until you see grill marks, usually around 6-7 minutes.
- Make sure to check the internal temperature. It should reach 165°F (75°C) for safety.
- Let the chicken rest a bit after grilling. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping it moist and tender.
How to Make Grilled Chicken Breasts With Lemon Garlic
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Marinade:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice of 2 lemons
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
For The Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 lemon, sliced (for grilling)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for preparation and 12-14 minutes for grilling. If you have time, marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes (up to 2 hours) will give it even more flavor. So, plan for about 40 minutes to 2 hours in total, depending on how long you marinate!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, mix together the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, chopped parsley (if using), dried oregano, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. This will be your tasty marinade.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Put the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece is coated well. Seal the bag or cover the dish and pop it in the refrigerator. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or longer if you want more lemony flavor!
3. Preheat the Grill:
While the chicken is marinating, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This will ensure a nice, hot grill for perfect grilling!
4. Grill the Chicken:
Once the chicken is ready, take it out of the marinade and toss away any leftover marinade. Place the chicken breasts on the hot grill. Cook them for about 6-7 minutes on one side until you see nice grill marks.
5. Flip and Add Lemon:
Carefully flip the chicken over. Place the lemon slices on the grill next to the chicken. Grill everything for another 6-7 minutes, or until the chicken is completely cooked through (it should reach an internal temperature of 165°F or 75°C).
6. Rest and Serve:
Once done, take the chicken off the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps keep it juicy. Serve your delicious grilled chicken breasts garnished with the grilled lemon slices and extra chopped parsley if you like. Enjoy your meal!
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs work great in this recipe. They tend to be juicier and more forgiving if cooked a bit longer. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs might need an extra couple of minutes on the grill until they reach the safe internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Parsley?
No worries! If you don’t have fresh parsley, you can skip it or substitute it with dried parsley or even another herb, like cilantro or basil. Just use about one-third of the amount if using dried herbs, as they are more concentrated in flavor.
How to Store Leftover Grilled Chicken?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze the grilled chicken by wrapping it tightly with plastic wrap and placing it in a freezer bag. It’ll last for about 2-3 months. Just thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating!
Can I Marinate the Chicken Overnight?
Yes, marinating the chicken overnight can enhance the flavors even more! Just remember to keep it in the refrigerator and ensure it’s well-sealed. If using a resealable bag, squeeze out the air before sealing to allow the marinade to fully coat the chicken.
