These grilled chicken breasts are juicy and full of flavor, thanks to zesty lemon and aromatic garlic. It’s a simple dish that brings a fresh taste to your table!
Cooking these chicken breasts is a breeze, and they pair perfectly with rice or veggies. I always feel like a chef when I make them! 🍋👍
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless chicken breasts are the stars of this dish. If you want a juicier option, you can use thighs instead. They stay moist and flavorful when grilled.
Olive Oil: This acts as a base for your marinade. Extra virgin olive oil is my favorite for its rich flavor, but you can swap it with avocado oil or even melted butter if that’s what you have.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice gives the best taste. However, if you’re short on time, bottled lemon juice works as a substitute. Just be mindful of the flavor; fresh is always better!
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is key for depth of flavor. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can work too, but you’ll need about 1/8 teaspoon for each clove you replace.
Herbs: Dried oregano and thyme are perfect for this recipe. If you’ve got fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary, feel free to swap those in for a more vibrant taste. Just use about three times the amount as dried.
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken Stays Juicy on the Grill?
Grilling chicken can be tricky; nobody likes dry chicken! To keep it juicy, marinating is essential. It not only enhances flavor but also helps retain moisture.
- Use a zip-top bag or shallow dish for marinating; make sure all the chicken pieces are well-coated.
- Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes, but 1-2 hours will give you the best flavor and moisture.
- When grilling, preheat your grill to medium-high—too hot can cause the chicken to burn on the outside while still being raw inside.
- Don’t rush the cooking! Grill chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, and always check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Let the grilled chicken rest for 5 minutes before cutting; this allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring that each bite is tender and juicy.
Grilled Chicken Breasts With Lemon Garlic
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Grilling:
- 1 lemon, sliced (for grilling)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This grilled chicken recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare, plus a minimal marinade time of at least 30 minutes in the fridge (up to 2 hours is ideal). The grilling itself will take approximately 15 minutes. So, in total, expect around 25 minutes for active cooking and extra time for marinating!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a bowl, whisk together the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried thyme, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. This mix will give your chicken a wonderful flavor!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Take your chicken breasts and place them into a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour your tasty marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece is well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and pop it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors soak in. If you have a little more time, letting them marinate for 1-2 hours will make them even more delicious!
3. Preheat the Grill:
Before grilling, get your grill ready. Preheat it to medium-high heat so it’s nice and hot when the chicken is ready to go.
4. Grill the Chicken:
Take the chicken out of the marinade and let any excess drip off. Be sure to throw away the leftover marinade. Now, place the chicken on the hot grill. Grill for about 6-7 minutes on each side until the chicken is nicely charred and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
5. Grilling the Lemon:
In the last few minutes of grilling, lay the lemon slices on the grill. Let them cook until they get caramelized and slightly charred. This adds a lovely taste to your dish!
6. Rest and Serve:
After grilling, take the chicken off the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps keep it juicy. Serve your grilled chicken breasts with the charred lemon slices on top for that extra zing of flavor. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Can I Use Bone-in Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use bone-in chicken, but cooking times will vary. Bone-in chicken breasts typically take a bit longer to cook. Grill them for about 10-12 minutes on each side, ensuring they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Lemons?
No worries! You can substitute fresh lemon juice with bottled lemon juice, but freshly squeezed provides the best flavor. If you’re in a pinch, vinegar can be used as an alternative, though it will alter the flavor profile slightly.
How to Store Leftover Grilled Chicken?
Store any leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage. Just make sure to cool the chicken completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap or foil to prevent freezer burn.
Can I Marinate the Chicken Overnight?
Absolutely! Marinating the chicken overnight enhances the flavors even more. Just ensure the chicken is stored in the refrigerator during the marinating process for food safety.
