These grilled chicken breasts are super tasty, thanks to a zesty mix of lemon and garlic. They’re juicy and perfect for a quick meal or a backyard barbecue!
I love whipping up this dish because it’s so simple and fresh. Pair it with a salad, and you’ve got a winner! Just watch out for everyone wanting seconds! 😉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe as they cook quickly and stay juicy. If you prefer dark meat, boneless thighs work well, too. Just adjust cooking time as they may take a bit longer.
Olive Oil: This adds flavor and helps to tenderize the chicken. If you’re out of olive oil, feel free to substitute with avocado oil or canola oil. These alternatives also have a high smoke point, making them ideal for grilling.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic gives a wonderful flavor to the marinade. If you don’t have fresh garlic, garlic powder can be a substitute. Use about 1/4 teaspoon for every clove, but adjust to taste since the flavor is milder.
Lemon Juice and Zest: Fresh lemon juice brightens up the dish, while the zest adds an extra punch. You can swap lemon for lime if that’s what you have. The flavor will differ slightly but still be refreshing.
Dried Oregano: This herb complements the lemon and garlic beautifully. If you don’t have oregano, Italian seasoning or thyme can be great substitutes for a different twist.
How Can I Ensure My Chicken Is Juicy and Flavorful?
Marinating is key to achieving juicy and flavorful chicken. It’s important to allow enough time for the marinade to work its magic. Here’s how to make the most of your marinade:
- Combine all marinade ingredients well in a bowl. The acid from lemon juice helps tenderize the chicken.
- Use a resealable bag or shallow dish so that all chicken pieces have contact with the marinade.
- For best results, marinate for at least 30 minutes. If you have time, 2 hours will enhance the flavor even more.
- Remember to discard any leftover marinade to avoid contamination after marinating.
Letting the chicken rest after grilling for a few minutes is also vital. This helps keep the juices locked in, making each bite tender and delicious!
How to Make Grilled Chicken Breasts With Lemon Garlic
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
For the Marinade:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For Garnish:
- Lemon slices for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare plus at least 30 minutes for marinating the chicken. Grilling the chicken will take an additional 15-20 minutes. In total, you can expect to spend around 1 hour including marinating and cooking time.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Whisk everything together until well mixed. This marinade will add a delicious flavor to the chicken.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Take your chicken breasts and place them in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece is well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish tightly. Then, pop it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. If you have more time, letting it marinate for up to 2 hours will make it even tastier!
3. Preheat the Grill:
Get your grill ready by preheating it to medium-high heat. This will ensure that the chicken cooks evenly and gets a nice char.
4. Grill the Chicken:
After marinating, take the chicken out and discard any leftover marinade. Place the chicken breasts directly on the grill. Grill them for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Look for a nice grill mark and that golden-brown color!
5. Caramelize the Lemon Slices:
In the last few minutes of grilling, lay some lemon slices directly on the grill. Let them cook until they are slightly charred and caramelized. This will enhance the flavor and make for a pretty garnish!
6. Let It Rest and Serve:
Once the chicken is cooked, take it off the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps keep it juicy. When you’re ready to serve, plate the chicken and top it with the beautiful caramelized lemon slices. Enjoy this delicious lemon garlic grilled chicken!
Can I Use Bone-In Chicken Breasts Instead of Boneless?
Yes, you can use bone-in chicken breasts! Just keep in mind that they will take longer to cook, typically around 10-12 minutes on each side. Make sure to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for safety.
What Can I Substitute for Olive Oil?
If you don’t have olive oil, you can use vegetable oil, grapeseed oil, or even melted butter for a different flavor. Each will work well with the marinade, just be aware that butter may add a richer taste!
How Long Can I Marinate the Chicken?
You can marinate the chicken for as little as 30 minutes to as long as 2 hours. If you marinate for longer than 2 hours, the lemon juice can start to break down the chicken, making it too mushy. So, sticking to that 2-hour limit is best!
How to Store Leftover Grilled Chicken?
Store any leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop to avoid drying it out. You can also slice it up to add to salads or wraps for a quick meal!
