This Grilled Lemon Chicken is juicy and full of bright, zesty flavor! The marinade of lemon juice, garlic, and herbs makes each bite taste like sunshine on a plate.
It’s so easy to make that you’ll wonder why you haven’t done it before! Serve with a side salad, and you’ve got a meal that feels special without the fuss. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for grilling. You could also use thighs for a juicier option or swap with firm tofu for a vegetarian choice.
Olive Oil: This adds richness and helps keep the chicken moist. If you don’t have olive oil, vegetable or avocado oil works well too.
Lemon Juice & Zest: Fresh lemons are key for that bright flavor. If you’re out of fresh lemons, bottled lemon juice can substitute, but fresh is way better. Lime juice is another good alternative!
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic adds wonderful flavor. If you don’t have fresh cloves, garlic powder can work, using about 1/4 teaspoon for each clove.
Dried Oregano: This herb gives a lovely earthy flavor. If you can’t find it, dried thyme or Italian seasoning can be good substitutes.
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken Stays Juicy on the Grill?
To keep the chicken juicy, marinating is really important! Not only does it add flavor, but the acid from the lemon juice tenderizes the meat. Allow your chicken to soak up the marinade for a minimum of 30 minutes, or even a few hours if you have time.
- Once marinated, remove excess marinade before grilling. Too much can cause flare-ups.
- Preheat the grill properly! A hot grill helps to sear the chicken, creating those nice grill marks while sealing in moisture.
- Don’t rush it! Cooking for about 6-7 minutes per side allows the chicken to cook evenly. Always check the internal temperature to ensure it’s 165°F (75°C).
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling. This helps redistribute the juices for a more tender bite.
How to Make Grilled Lemon Chicken?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, for garnish
- Lemon slices, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 10 minutes for preparation and marinating, plus around 15 minutes for grilling. You’ll want to marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but if you have time, letting it sit for up to 4 hours will enhance the flavor. Total time can vary from about 45 minutes to 4 hours, depending on your marinating time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. This will be your tasty marinade that makes the chicken juicy and flavorful!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece is well-coated. If using a bag, seal it tightly; if using a dish, cover it with plastic wrap. Let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for maximum flavor.
3. Grill the Chicken:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. After the chicken has marinated, take it out and let any excess marinade drip off (remember to discard the leftover marinade!). Place the chicken on the grill and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side. You’re looking for a nice golden color and grill marks—plus, make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
4. Rest and Serve:
Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps keep it juicy! To serve, place the grilled lemon chicken on a platter, garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro, and add some lemon slices for extra zing. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Can I Use Bone-In Chicken Pieces Instead of Breasts?
Yes, you can use bone-in chicken pieces! Just keep in mind that they will take longer to cook, approximately 10-15 minutes more per side, depending on the size. Make sure to check the internal temperature, which should still reach 165°F (75°C).
What Can I Substitute for Olive Oil?
If you don’t have olive oil on hand, you can substitute it with avocado oil, canola oil, or even melted coconut oil. Each will give a slightly different flavor, but they all work well for grilling!
How to Store Leftover Grilled Chicken?
Store any leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the grill until heated through. You might want to cover it with foil to retain moisture.
Can I Marinate the Chicken Overnight?
Absolutely! Marinating the chicken overnight can enhance the flavors further. Just be cautious not to marinate for too long, as the acidity from the lemon juice can start to break down the meat, making it mushy if left for more than 24 hours.
