These grilled chicken breasts are bursting with fresh lemon and garlic flavors! They’re juicy, tender, and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Honestly, it’s hard to go wrong with such simple ingredients. I like to serve them with veggies or a big salad—keeps it light and tasty!
Making this dish is a breeze. Just marinate, grill, and enjoy! Your taste buds will be thanking you for this zesty treat.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the star here. If you prefer something juicier, consider using thighs. They have more fat and flavor, which can elevate the dish.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is essential for flavor. If it’s not available, garlic powder can work in a pinch—about 1/8 teaspoon equals 1 clove, but fresh gives a better taste!
Olive Oil: Olive oil adds richness. You can swap it for other oils like avocado or vegetable oil. However, olive oil provides a lovely flavor that enhances the marinade.
Lemon Juice and Zest: Fresh lemons give a bright zing that lifts the chicken. If you only have bottled lemon juice, use it, but fresh is always better for flavor and aroma.
Thyme: Fresh thyme adds a lovely herbal note. If it’s hard to find, dried thyme works too, just use a smaller amount (1 teaspoon dried equals 1 tablespoon fresh).
How Can I Ensure My Chicken Is Perfectly Grilled?
Grilling chicken breasts can be a bit tricky since they can dry out easily. Here are my tips for juicy and flavorful grilled chicken:
- **Marinate**: Let the chicken sit in the marinade for at least 30 minutes, but 2 hours is best. This really helps the flavors soak in.
- **Preheat the Grill**: Always preheat your grill to medium-high heat before cooking. This helps create a nice sear, which locks in moisture.
- **Avoid Overcooking**: Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness—165°F (75°C) ensures it’s safe to eat but still juicy.
- **Let It Rest**: After grilling, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before cutting into it. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping it moist.
How to Make Grilled Chicken Breasts with Lemon Garlic
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Juice of 2 lemons
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Lemon wedges for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare, plus at least 30 minutes for marinating. Grill time is approximately 14 minutes. All in all, plan for about 1 hour if you let the chicken marinate for 2 hours for the best flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a mixing bowl, combine the minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until well mixed. This will be your delicious marinade!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Take the chicken breasts and place them in a large resealable bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure all the pieces are well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap and pop it in the fridge. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, but if you have time, aim for 2 hours to let those flavors really soak in.
3. Grill the Chicken:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. To keep the chicken from sticking, lightly oil the grill grates. Once heated, take the chicken out of the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off, and discard the leftover marinade. Grill the chicken breasts for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and they are no longer pink in the center.
4. Rest and Serve:
After grilling, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps keep the chicken juicy. Serve the grilled chicken breasts with fresh lemon wedges and a sprinkle of more thyme, if you like. Enjoy your tasty meal!
Can I Use Bone-In Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use bone-in chicken, but cooking times will vary. Bone-in breasts may need an additional 10-15 minutes on the grill. Make sure to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) before serving.
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Thyme?
No worries! You can substitute dried thyme at a ratio of 1:3, which means using about 1 teaspoon of dried thyme. If you want to experiment, herbs like rosemary or oregano can also work well for a different flavor profile.
Can I Marinate the Chicken Overnight?
Absolutely! Marinating the chicken overnight enhances the flavor. Just keep it covered in the fridge in a resealable bag or a covered dish. Make sure to enjoy it within 24 hours for the best quality.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Grilled Chicken?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently in the microwave or in a skillet with a splash of water or broth to retain moisture.
