Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken

This Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken recipe has become an absolute staple in our household, especially during the warmer months. It’s one of those dishes that’s incredibly simple to throw together, yet delivers a punch of flavor that feels both fresh and comforting. Last weekend, we had friends over for a casual barbecue, and this chicken was the star of the show. Even the kids, who can sometimes be picky eaters, devoured it! The bright lemon and aromatic herbs create a marinade that not only tenderizes the chicken beautifully but also infuses it with a vibrant, summery taste that’s simply irresistible. Honestly, the aroma alone while it’s grilling is enough to make your mouth water. If you’re looking for a healthy, flavorful, and crowd-pleasing meal that’s perfect for any occasion, look no further. This Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken is your answer.

Ingredients for Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken Perfection

To unlock the vibrant flavors of this Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken, you’ll need a selection of fresh, high-quality ingredients. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity, but using the best ingredients you can find will truly elevate the dish to another level. Here’s what you’ll need to gather:

• Chicken Breasts: 2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the foundation of this recipe. Aim for chicken breasts that are roughly the same size and thickness to ensure even cooking on the grill. You can also use chicken thighs if you prefer darker meat; just be mindful that thighs will require a slightly longer cooking time. When selecting your chicken, look for plump, pink breasts without any bruising or discoloration. Opting for air-chilled chicken can also enhance the texture and flavor, as it retains more moisture.
• Fresh Lemons: Two large, juicy lemons are crucial for both the marinade and serving. You’ll need the zest and juice of one lemon for the marinade, and the second lemon can be sliced into wedges for grilling and serving. Choose lemons that are heavy for their size, indicating they are full of juice. Look for lemons with bright yellow skin and avoid any that are overly soft or have blemishes. Organic lemons are a great choice, especially since you’ll be using the zest.
• Olive Oil: 1/4 cup of extra virgin olive oil serves as the base of the marinade, helping to tenderize the chicken and carry the flavors of the herbs and lemon. Extra virgin olive oil not only adds a rich, fruity flavor but also contributes healthy fats to the dish. Select a good quality extra virgin olive oil for the best taste.
• Fresh Herbs (A Medley of Flavor): A generous handful of fresh herbs is what truly makes this chicken sing. You’ll need a combination of:
  • Rosemary: 2 tablespoons of fresh rosemary, finely chopped. Rosemary brings a piney, slightly woodsy aroma that pairs beautifully with lemon and chicken. Fresh rosemary is preferred, but in a pinch, you can use dried rosemary (use about 1 tablespoon of dried).
  • Thyme: 2 tablespoons of fresh thyme leaves. Thyme adds a delicate, earthy, and slightly minty flavor that complements the rosemary and lemon perfectly. Like rosemary, fresh thyme is best, but 1 tablespoon of dried thyme can be used as a substitute.
  • Parsley: 1/4 cup of fresh parsley, finely chopped. Parsley provides a fresh, clean, and slightly peppery note that brightens up the marinade. Flat-leaf (Italian) parsley is generally preferred for its stronger flavor compared to curly parsley.
  • Optional Herbs: Feel free to experiment with other fresh herbs you love! Oregano, basil, or chives would also be wonderful additions to this marinade, adding their own unique flavor profiles.
• Garlic: 2 cloves of garlic, minced. Garlic is essential for adding depth and savory notes to the marinade. Freshly minced garlic is always best for maximum flavor. If you don’t have fresh garlic, you can use about 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, but the flavor won’t be quite as vibrant.
• Salt: 1 teaspoon of kosher salt. Salt is crucial for seasoning the chicken and enhancing all the other flavors. Kosher salt is recommended for its pure taste and ease of use. If using table salt, you may need to use slightly less as it is more concentrated.
• Black Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper. Black pepper adds a touch of spice and complexity to the marinade. Freshly ground black pepper is always preferred for its superior flavor.

Instructions: Grilling Your Way to Lemon Herb Chicken Heaven

Follow these simple steps to create perfectly grilled, juicy, and flavorful Lemon Herb Chicken. The key is to allow ample time for marinating, which will infuse the chicken with all those wonderful lemon and herb flavors.

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, thyme, and parsley. Add the salt and black pepper. Whisk everything together thoroughly until the marinade is well combined and slightly emulsified. This vibrant marinade is the heart of the dish, so make sure all the ingredients are nicely incorporated.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a large zip-top bag or a shallow dish. Pour the lemon herb marinade over the chicken, ensuring that each piece is evenly coated. If using a zip-top bag, squeeze out any excess air before sealing. If using a dish, turn the chicken breasts to coat them thoroughly.
3. Marinating Time (Flavor Infusion): Allow the chicken to marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or ideally for 2-4 hours. For the most intense flavor, you can even marinate the chicken overnight. However, be careful not to marinate for longer than 8 hours, as the lemon juice can start to break down the chicken protein and make it slightly mushy. The longer marinating time allows the lemon and herbs to penetrate the chicken, resulting in a more flavorful and tender final product.
4. Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 375-450°F or 190-230°C). Make sure the grill grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent the chicken from sticking. You can use a grill brush to clean the grates and then lightly brush them with oil using a paper towel dipped in oil and tongs.
5. Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken breasts from the marinade, letting any excess marinade drip off. Discard the used marinade. Place the chicken breasts on the preheated grill. Grill for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the chicken to ensure it is fully cooked. Avoid overcrowding the grill; if necessary, grill the chicken in batches to maintain even cooking.
6. Grill Lemon Wedges (Optional but Recommended): If you desire extra grilled lemon flavor and a beautiful presentation, cut the remaining lemon into wedges and grill them alongside the chicken for the last few minutes. Grilling the lemon wedges caramelizes them slightly and intensifies their flavor, adding a smoky sweetness. Grill them cut-side down for a few minutes until slightly charred and softened.
7. Rest the Chicken: Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the grill and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing or serving. Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the chicken, resulting in a more tender and flavorful final product. Cover the chicken loosely with foil while it rests to keep it warm.
8. Serve and Enjoy: Serve the Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken hot, garnished with the grilled lemon wedges (if using) and any remaining fresh parsley. Squeeze the grilled lemon juice over the chicken just before serving to enhance the lemony flavor. This chicken is delicious on its own or paired with your favorite side dishes.

Nutrition Facts: A Healthy and Delicious Choice

This Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken isn’t just delicious; it’s also a wonderfully healthy meal option. Grilled chicken is a fantastic source of lean protein, and the fresh herbs and lemon add vitamins and antioxidants. Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown per serving:

• Serving Size: 1 Grilled Chicken Breast (approximately 4 ounces cooked weight)
• Calories: Approximately 250-300 calories per serving (This can vary slightly depending on the size and thickness of the chicken breast and the amount of olive oil absorbed).
• Protein: Around 35-40 grams of protein per serving. Chicken is an excellent source of complete protein, essential for muscle building and repair, as well as overall bodily functions.
• Fat: Approximately 10-15 grams of fat per serving. The fat content comes primarily from the olive oil. The majority of the fat is monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which are considered healthy fats.
• Saturated Fat: Approximately 2-3 grams of saturated fat per serving.
• Cholesterol: Approximately 100-120 mg of cholesterol per serving.
• Sodium: Approximately 300-400 mg of sodium per serving (depending on the amount of salt used).
• Carbohydrates: Very low in carbohydrates, typically less than 2-3 grams per serving, mostly from trace amounts in the herbs and lemon.
• Fiber: Minimal fiber content.

Important Note: These nutrition facts are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients used, the size of the chicken breasts, and cooking methods. For more precise nutritional information, you can use a nutrition calculator app or website, inputting the specific amounts of each ingredient you use.

This Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken is naturally gluten-free and dairy-free, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions. It’s also a fantastic choice for anyone looking to increase their protein intake and enjoy a flavorful, lighter meal.

Preparation Time: Quick and Easy Meal Planning

One of the great things about this Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken recipe is its simplicity and relatively quick preparation time. Here’s a breakdown of the time involved:

• Prep Time: 15-20 minutes. This includes the time it takes to zest and juice the lemon, mince the garlic, chop the herbs, and whisk together the marinade. It also includes placing the chicken in the marinade.
• Marinating Time: Minimum 30 minutes, ideally 2-4 hours, or up to 8 hours for maximum flavor. While marinating requires time, it’s mostly hands-off, allowing you to prepare other parts of your meal or relax.
• Grilling Time: 10-14 minutes total (5-7 minutes per side), depending on the thickness of the chicken breasts and the heat of your grill.
• Resting Time: 5-10 minutes after grilling.

Total Time (excluding marinating): Approximately 30-45 minutes from start to finish.

Total Time (including optimal marinating): Approximately 2 hours 30 minutes to 4 hours 45 minutes.

This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners because the active cooking time is relatively short. You can easily prepare the marinade and get the chicken marinating in the morning or early afternoon, and then grilling it takes just minutes when you’re ready to eat. The marinating step can also be done ahead of time, making this a great make-ahead meal option for busy days.

How to Serve Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken: Versatile and Delicious Pairings

Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a wide variety of side dishes, making it perfect for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to elegant summer gatherings. Here are some delicious serving suggestions:

• Classic Side Dishes:
  • Grilled Vegetables: Take advantage of the grill and toss some vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, asparagus, corn on the cob, or onions with olive oil, salt, and pepper and grill them alongside the chicken. The smoky char from the grill complements the chicken beautifully.
  • Roasted Potatoes: Roasted potatoes, whether classic roasted potatoes, rosemary roasted potatoes, or garlic parmesan roasted potatoes, are a hearty and satisfying side that pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken.
  • Creamy Mashed Potatoes: For a comforting and classic pairing, serve the chicken with a side of creamy mashed potatoes. You can elevate your mashed potatoes with garlic, herbs, or cheese.
  • Rice Pilaf: A flavorful rice pilaf, perhaps with herbs, lemon zest, or toasted almonds, is a light and delicious accompaniment.
  • Quinoa or Couscous: For a healthier grain option, serve the chicken with quinoa or couscous. You can add vegetables, herbs, or dried fruit to the grains for extra flavor and texture.
• Fresh and Vibrant Salads:
  • Greek Salad: The bright flavors of a Greek salad, with tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, feta cheese, and a lemon vinaigrette, are a perfect match for the Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken.
  • Caprese Salad: A simple Caprese salad with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, basil, and balsamic glaze is a refreshing and elegant side.
  • Corn and Avocado Salad: A summery corn and avocado salad with a lime dressing adds a creamy and sweet element that complements the lemony chicken.
  • Watermelon and Feta Salad: For a truly refreshing summer side, try a watermelon and feta salad with mint and a light vinaigrette.
  • Simple Green Salad: Even a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette will provide a fresh and healthy contrast to the grilled chicken.
• Sauces and Toppings:
  • Tzatziki Sauce: A cool and creamy tzatziki sauce (yogurt, cucumber, garlic, dill) is a fantastic Mediterranean-inspired topping for the chicken.
  • Lemon-Herb Yogurt Sauce: Whip up a quick lemon-herb yogurt sauce by mixing plain Greek yogurt with lemon juice, chopped herbs (like dill or mint), and a pinch of garlic powder.
  • Chimichurri Sauce: For a bolder flavor, serve the chicken with a vibrant chimichurri sauce (parsley, cilantro, garlic, olive oil, vinegar, chili flakes).
  • Pesto: A dollop of pesto, either basil pesto or sun-dried tomato pesto, adds a burst of herbaceous and savory flavor.
  • Grilled Lemon Wedges: Don’t forget the grilled lemon wedges! Squeezing fresh grilled lemon juice over the chicken just before serving enhances the lemony flavor and adds a touch of smoky sweetness.
• Meal Prep and Leftovers:
  • Chicken Salad: Shred leftover grilled chicken and use it to make a delicious and healthy chicken salad for sandwiches or lettuce wraps.
  • Grain Bowls: Combine leftover grilled chicken with cooked grains (quinoa, rice, farro), roasted vegetables, and a flavorful dressing for a satisfying and nutritious grain bowl.
  • Chicken Tacos or Fajitas: Slice the grilled chicken and use it as a filling for tacos or fajitas.
  • Pasta Salad: Add diced grilled chicken to your favorite pasta salad recipe for a protein boost.

No matter how you choose to serve it, Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Its bright, fresh flavors and versatility make it a perfect choice for any meal.

Additional Tips for Grilling the Best Lemon Herb Chicken

To ensure your Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken turns out perfectly every time, here are five essential tips:

1. Pound Chicken Breasts for Even Thickness: Chicken breasts often vary in thickness, which can lead to uneven cooking. To ensure even cooking, place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap and gently pound it with a meat mallet or rolling pin to an even thickness of about 1/2 to 3/4 inch. This will help the chicken cook more quickly and evenly, preventing dry edges and undercooked centers.
2. Don’t Over-Marinate: While marinating is crucial for flavor and tenderness, avoid marinating the chicken for too long, especially with acidic marinades like this lemon-based one. Over-marinating can cause the lemon juice to break down the chicken protein too much, resulting in a mushy texture. Stick to the recommended marinating time of 30 minutes to 8 hours.
3. Bring Chicken to Room Temperature Before Grilling: Take the chicken out of the refrigerator about 20-30 minutes before grilling. This allows the chicken to come closer to room temperature, which helps it cook more evenly on the grill. Cold chicken straight from the fridge can cook unevenly, with the outside cooking faster than the inside.
4. Use a Meat Thermometer: The best way to ensure your chicken is cooked to perfection (and safely) is to use a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken breast, avoiding the bone if present. Chicken is cooked through when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Overcooking chicken can make it dry, so aim for this temperature for juicy and tender results.
5. Let the Chicken Rest After Grilling: Resist the temptation to slice into the chicken immediately after taking it off the grill. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes, loosely covered with foil. Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the chicken, resulting in a more tender and flavorful final product. This simple step makes a significant difference in the overall juiciness of the grilled chicken.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken

Here are some common questions people often ask about making Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken:

Q1: Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh herbs?
A: While fresh herbs are highly recommended for the most vibrant flavor in this recipe, you can use dried herbs in a pinch. As a general rule, use about one-third the amount of dried herbs as you would fresh herbs. So, if the recipe calls for 2 tablespoons of fresh rosemary, you would use about 2 teaspoons of dried rosemary. Keep in mind that fresh herbs offer a brighter and more aromatic flavor profile.

Q2: Can I marinate the chicken overnight?
A: Yes, you can marinate the chicken overnight for maximum flavor, but be mindful of the marinating time. Do not marinate for longer than 8 hours. The lemon juice in the marinade is acidic and can start to break down the chicken protein if marinated for too long, potentially resulting in a slightly mushy texture. Marinating for 2-4 hours is ideal for optimal flavor and texture.

Q3: What temperature should my grill be for grilling chicken breasts?
A: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, which is generally around 375-450°F (190-230°C). This temperature range allows the chicken to cook through without burning on the outside. If your grill is too hot, the chicken may char on the outside before it’s cooked through inside. If it’s too low, the chicken may dry out before it gets properly browned.

Q4: How do I prevent the chicken from sticking to the grill?
A: To prevent chicken from sticking to the grill, make sure the grill grates are clean and well-oiled. Before placing the chicken on the grill, use a grill brush to clean the grates. Then, lightly oil the grates by dipping a paper towel in oil (vegetable, canola, or olive oil) and using tongs to rub the oiled paper towel over the hot grates. Also, avoid moving the chicken too soon after placing it on the grill; let it sear for a few minutes before trying to flip it.

Q5: Can I bake this Lemon Herb Chicken instead of grilling it?
A: Yes, you can definitely bake this Lemon Herb Chicken if you don’t have a grill or prefer to bake it. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the marinated chicken breasts in a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Baking will result in a slightly different texture than grilling, as it won’t have the smoky char, but it will still be delicious and flavorful. You can also broil the chicken for the last few minutes to get a bit of browning on top.

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