What To Know
- If you’re looking for a flavorful and refreshing twist on your usual grilling routine, grilled lemon chicken is the perfect dish.
- This simple yet delicious recipe combines the bright and tangy flavors of lemon with the smoky goodness of grilled chicken, creating a dish that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more.
- Grilled lemon chicken pairs well with a variety of sides, such as roasted vegetables, grilled corn on the cob, or a fresh salad.
Summer grilling season is here, and there’s nothing quite like the taste of perfectly grilled chicken. If you’re looking for a flavorful and refreshing twist on your usual grilling routine, grilled lemon chicken is the perfect dish. This simple yet delicious recipe combines the bright and tangy flavors of lemon with the smoky goodness of grilled chicken, creating a dish that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more.
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
1. Prepare the marinade: In a large bowl, whisk together the lemon zest, lemon juice, olive oil, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper.
2. Marinate the chicken: Place the chicken breasts in the marinade and turn to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight.
3. Preheat the grill: Prepare your grill for medium-high heat (400-450°F).
4. Grill the chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the marinade. Grill the chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through and slightly charred.
5. Rest the chicken: Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Tips for Perfect Grilled Lemon Chicken
- Use fresh lemon: Fresh lemon juice and zest will give your chicken the best flavor.
- Marinate the chicken: Marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes will help it absorb the flavors of the marinade and make it more tender.
- Don’t overcook the chicken: Grilled chicken can dry out quickly, so it’s important to cook it just until it’s cooked through.
- Serve with your favorite sides: Grilled lemon chicken pairs well with a variety of sides, such as roasted vegetables, grilled corn on the cob, or a fresh salad.
Variations
- Add some heat: For a spicy twist, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the marinade.
- Use different herbs: If you don’t have oregano or thyme on hand, you can substitute other herbs, such as basil, rosemary, or marjoram.
- Add some honey: For a sweeter flavor, add a tablespoon of honey to the marinade.
- Make it a whole meal: Grill some vegetables or potatoes alongside the chicken to create a complete meal.
Why Grilled Lemon Chicken is a Must-Try
- It’s flavorful and refreshing: The bright and tangy flavors of lemon pair perfectly with the smoky goodness of grilled chicken.
- It’s easy to make: This recipe is simple to follow and requires minimal ingredients.
- It’s versatile: Grilled lemon chicken can be served as a main course, on salads, or in sandwiches.
- It’s healthy: Grilled chicken is a lean and healthy protein source, and it’s packed with flavor.
The Final Verdict
Grilled lemon chicken is a delicious and versatile dish that’s perfect for summer grilling. It’s easy to make, flavorful, and healthy, making it a must-try for anyone who loves grilled chicken. So fire up your grill and give this recipe a try!
Quick Answers to Your FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just be sure to thaw them completely before marinating and grilling.
Q: How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?
A: The chicken is cooked through when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. You can check the temperature using a meat thermometer.
Q: What should I do if the chicken is dry?
A: If your chicken is dry, you can try marinating it for longer next time. You can also try brushing the chicken with olive oil before grilling.
