Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple and Fresh: With a short list of ingredients, this recipe highlights the natural flavors of chicken, enhanced by the bright, zesty lemon.
- Quick and Easy: Marinate the chicken for just 20-30 minutes, then grill it to perfection, making this a quick dinner option.
- Versatile: Perfect for a family dinner, BBQ, or meal prep. It can be paired with various sides, from salads to grains or roasted vegetables.
- Healthy: Grilled chicken provides lean protein, and the marinade adds flavor without any heavy sauces or excess calories.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Marinate the chicken: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Pour the marinade over the chicken breasts and let them marinate for 20-30 minutes (no longer than 6 hours).
- Preheat the grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Grill the chicken: Place the chicken on the preheated grill and cook for 5-7 minutes on one side without moving it. Flip the chicken and cook for another 5-7 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 160°F for white meat or 165°F for dark meat.
- Rest the chicken: Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Marinate time: 20-30 minutes
- Cook time: 10-14 minutes
- Total time: 30-45 minutes
Variations
- Herb variations: Swap the oregano for other herbs like thyme, rosemary, or basil.
- Add spice: If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade.
- Use chicken thighs: If you prefer dark meat, chicken thighs are an excellent alternative that will remain juicy and flavorful.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Leftover grilled lemon chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on a skillet until warmed through. You can also reheat on the grill for a few minutes to maintain the smoky flavor.
FAQs
What temperature should I grill chicken breasts?
Grill until the internal temperature reaches 160°F for white meat or 165°F for dark meat.
How long should I grill chicken breasts?
For a standard 6-ounce chicken breast, grill for 5-7 minutes on each side until cooked through.
Can I marinate the chicken overnight?
No, it’s not recommended to marinate the chicken overnight as the lemon juice can make the chicken tough. Marinate for up to 6 hours.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs work well for this recipe. They will need to be cooked slightly longer than chicken breasts.
Can I make this without a grill?
Yes, you can cook the chicken in a grill pan on the stovetop or bake it in the oven at 400°F for 20-25 minutes.
Can I add more lemon flavor?
Yes, you can zest the lemon and add it to the marinade for an extra citrusy kick.
Can I freeze this recipe?
Yes, you can freeze the marinated chicken breasts for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before grilling.
Should I rest the chicken after grilling?
Yes, letting the chicken rest for 5 minutes allows the juices to redistribute, making the chicken more tender and juicy.
What sides go well with grilled lemon chicken?
Grilled vegetables, a fresh salad, quinoa, or roasted potatoes all pair beautifully with this dish.
How do I know when the chicken is done?
The chicken is done when the internal temperature reaches 160°F for white meat or 165°F for dark meat.
Conclusion
Grilled lemon chicken is a simple yet delicious recipe that is perfect for any occasion. The fresh lemon marinade ensures juicy, tender chicken with bright, Mediterranean flavors. Whether you’re grilling for a weeknight dinner or a summer BBQ, this recipe is sure to impress your family and guests.
Print
Grilled Lemon Chicken
- Total Time: 30-45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Grilled lemon chicken is a healthy, juicy, and flavorful dish perfect for any grilling occasion. The bright, zesty marinade made with fresh lemon juice, garlic, and oregano brings out the natural flavors of the chicken. This quick and easy recipe is ideal for a light meal, paired with fresh salads, roasted vegetables, or grains for a complete and satisfying dinner.
Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
3 tablespoons olive oil
3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
-
Marinate the chicken: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Pour the marinade over the chicken breasts and let them marinate for 20-30 minutes (no longer than 6 hours).
-
Preheat the grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat.
-
Grill the chicken: Place the chicken on the preheated grill and cook for 5-7 minutes on one side without moving it. Flip the chicken and cook for another 5-7 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 160°F for white meat or 165°F for dark meat.
-
Rest the chicken: Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
To add extra flavor, zest the lemon and add it to the marinade for a stronger citrusy kick.
Chicken thighs can be used as a substitute for breasts if you prefer dark meat.
For a spicier version, add chili flakes or hot sauce to the marinade.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
