This Grilled Lemon Chicken is juicy, tangy, and super simple to make! With zesty lemon and a bit of garlic, it’s perfect for a sunny day.
You’ll love how quick it cooks on the grill! I like to serve it with a fresh salad to brighten up the meal. It’s a real crowd-pleaser, trust me!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for grilling because they cook evenly. If you prefer dark meat, try using boneless, skinless thighs instead; they tend to stay juicy and flavorful.
Olive Oil: Olive oil adds flavor and helps the marinade stick. You can substitute it with avocado oil or even some melted butter if you want a different taste. Both are great options!
Lemon Juice & Zest: Fresh lemon juice and zest brighten the dish. If fresh lemons aren’t available, you might use bottled lemon juice, but fresh is always better for flavor. Lime juice could also work in a pinch!
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is key for that aromatic touch. If you’re out of fresh garlic, feel free to use garlic powder—about 1/8 teaspoon per clove will suffice.
Dried Oregano: This herb gives a lovely Mediterranean flavor. If you don’t have dried oregano, dried thyme or Italian seasoning makes a fine swap. Fresh herbs can be used too; just use roughly three times the amount.
How Can I Ensure My Chicken is Perfectly Grilled?
Grilling chicken can be tricky, but with the right techniques, you’ll achieve juicy results. Follow these tips for success:
- Make sure to marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes. The longer, the better; even overnight can enhance the flavor.
- Preheat your grill well. This helps with nice grill marks and prevents sticking. A medium-high heat is ideal.
- Don’t flip the chicken too often. Let it cook undisturbed for 6-7 minutes on one side to develop those beautiful grill marks before flipping.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. The chicken should reach an internal temp of 165°F (75°C).
- Let the chicken rest after grilling. This allows juices to redistribute, making every bite tender and juicy.
How to Make Grilled Lemon Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
For The Marinade:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Juice of 2 lemons
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For Garnishing:
- Lemon slices, for garnishing
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and requires marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes (up to 2 hours is best). Grilling the chicken will take another 15 minutes. In total, you should plan for around 55 minutes to enjoy this delicious dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and black pepper. This will create a flavorful marinade to soak the chicken in, making it juicy and delicious.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Place the chicken breasts in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure to coat each piece well. Seal the bag or cover the dish, then refrigerate the chicken for at least 30 minutes to 2 hours to let those flavors soak in.
3. Grill the Chicken:
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking. Once the grill is hot, take the chicken out of the marinade, letting any excess drip off, and discard the marinade. Place the chicken on the grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side. Make sure the chicken is cooked through (it should reach an internal temperature of 165°F or 75°C) and has nice grill marks.
4. Char the Lemon Slices:
During the last few minutes of cooking, throw a few lemon slices on the grill to get a nice char on them. This will add extra flavor and make for a pretty garnish!
5. Rest and Serve:
Once the chicken is done, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps keep it juicy. Serve the grilled chicken on a plate, garnished with the charred lemon slices. Enjoy your tasty grilled lemon chicken!
Can I Marinate the Chicken Overnight?
Absolutely! Marinating the chicken overnight allows for deeper flavor penetration. Just make sure to store it in the refrigerator to keep the chicken safe. You can use the same marinade; just ensure it’s well-sealed to avoid spills!
What Can I Use Instead of Olive Oil?
If you don’t have olive oil on hand, avocado oil or melted coconut oil work great as substitutes due to their high smoke points and neutral flavors. If you prefer a bit of extra flavor, you can also try using flavored oils like garlic or herb-infused oils!
How Do I Know When the Chicken is Fully Cooked?
The best way to ensure your chicken is fully cooked is to use a meat thermometer. Look for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) in the thickest part of the breast. If you don’t have a thermometer, you can cut into the chicken to check that the juices run clear with no pink meat.
Can I Store Leftover Grilled Chicken?
Yes, you can store leftover grilled chicken! Allow it to cool completely, then place it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, use the oven or microwave, making sure to warm it gently to keep it juicy.
