If you are craving something fresh, vibrant, and packed with flavor, this Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken Recipe is exactly what you need. It brings together juicy chicken breasts marinated in zesty lemon juice, fragrant herbs, and garlic, then grilled to perfection. This dish is not only a breeze to prepare but also bursts with bright, savory notes that elevate any meal whether it’s a simple weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering with friends. The balance of citrus and herbs makes it utterly irresistible and a quick favorite you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient has a key role, contributing freshness, aroma, and the perfect seasoning. Together, they create a harmonious blend that transforms ordinary chicken into something extraordinary.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The perfect canvas for absorbing all those bright, herb-infused flavors.
- 1/4 cup olive oil: Adds moisture and helps the marinade penetrate the chicken beautifully.
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice: Brings that essential zesty brightness that makes this recipe so refreshing.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Provides a warm, savory depth without overpowering the fresh herbs.
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped: Infuses an aromatic, slightly piney flavor that pairs wonderfully with lemon.
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped: Gives a subtle earthy note that balances the citrus beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and ensures the chicken is perfectly seasoned.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds just enough heat and complexity to round out the dish.
- Zest of 1 lemon: Delivers an extra punch of lemon aroma and flavor, making every bite delightful.
How to Make Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
Start by whisking together olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, chopped rosemary and thyme, salt, pepper, and lemon zest in a small bowl. This mixture is your flavor powerhouse, combining bright citrus with earthy herbs and savory garlic to tenderize and infuse the chicken.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts into a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour in the marinade and toss or massage the chicken so each piece is thoroughly coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish, then refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let those flavors soak in—though leaving it 2 to 4 hours works wonders if you have the time.
Step 3: Heat the Grill
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, aiming for a nice hot surface that will sear the chicken perfectly. This will lock in all the flavors and give you those beautiful grill marks everyone loves.
Step 4: Grill the Chicken
Remove the chicken breasts from the marinade, letting the excess drip off, and discard the leftover marinade. Grill the chicken about 6 to 7 minutes on each side until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the exterior develops a gorgeous char. This ensures juicy, flavorful chicken cooked to perfection.
Step 5: Let It Rest
Once off the grill, let the chicken rest for a few minutes. This step is essential because it allows the juices to redistribute, making every bite tender and juicy instead of dry.
How to Serve Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes really elevate this dish visually and taste-wise. Sprinkle chopped parsley or additional fresh thyme over the top for a pop of green, or add thin lemon slices to enhance the citrus brightness. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil right before serving also adds a lovely sheen and richness.
Side Dishes
This Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken Recipe pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Think crisp green salads with vinaigrette, roasted seasonal vegetables, or a fluffy couscous salad to complement the herbaceous flavors. Even creamy mashed potatoes or grilled corn on the cob work wonderfully alongside.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, slice the grilled chicken and serve it over a bed of fresh arugula and cherry tomatoes as a warm salad. You can also stuff your chicken in a pita wrap with tzatziki and crunchy cucumbers for a Mediterranean flair. The possibilities to customize and impress with this recipe are endless.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover grilled chicken, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays fresh for up to 3 to 4 days and is perfect for quick lunches or adding to salads and sandwiches.
Freezing
For longer storage, wrap the cooked chicken breasts tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen cooked chicken maintains its best quality for about 2 to 3 months without losing much flavor or texture.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the chicken in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. Avoid overcooking to retain the tender juiciness that makes this Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken Recipe such a winner.
FAQs
Can I use bone-in chicken for this Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken Recipe?
Absolutely! Bone-in chicken pieces can be used, but remember to increase the grilling time to ensure they cook through. The marinade flavors will still penetrate beautifully.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
While 30 minutes is the minimum, marinating for 2 to 4 hours is ideal for deeper flavor and tenderness. Avoid marinating longer than 8 hours to prevent the lemon juice from breaking down the meat too much.
What if I don’t have fresh herbs?
Dried rosemary and thyme can substitute in a pinch. Use about one-third the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated. Fresh herbs, however, do give that bright flavor that makes this recipe shine.
Can I make this chicken indoors without a grill?
Yes, you can cook the marinated chicken on a grill pan or in a cast iron skillet on the stove. High heat cooking will mimic the grill’s searing effect nicely.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Definitely. This Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken Recipe is perfect for making ahead and storing for quick meals throughout the week. It stays juicy and flavorful and can be mixed into many dishes.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so satisfying about biting into perfectly grilled chicken that’s brightened by fresh lemon and herbs. This Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken Recipe delivers that magic every single time. Whether you’re cooking for family, entertaining friends, or just treating yourself, give this recipe a try—you’ll quickly see why it’s a favorite in my kitchen and it can be in yours too!
Print
Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 14 minutes
- Total Time: 44 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken recipe features tender, juicy boneless, skinless chicken breasts marinated in a zesty blend of fresh lemon juice, garlic, and aromatic herbs like rosemary and thyme. Perfectly grilled to achieve a flavorful char, this dish is a healthy and vibrant option for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend barbecue.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Marinade
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Zest of 1 lemon
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, thyme, salt, black pepper, and lemon zest until well combined to create a flavorful marinade.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a large resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece is thoroughly coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, preferably 2 to 4 hours to allow the flavors to penetrate.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat, preparing it for cooking the chicken evenly while achieving a nice char.
- Remove Chicken from Marinade: Take the chicken breasts out of the marinade, discarding any leftover marinade to avoid contamination.
- Grill the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts on the grill and cook for 6 to 7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the chicken is nicely charred and cooked through.
- Rest and Serve: Let the grilled chicken rest for a few minutes before serving to retain its juices and enhance tenderness.
Notes
- For best results, marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours to maximize flavor absorption.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- If you don’t have fresh herbs, dried rosemary and thyme can be used, but reduce the quantity to 1 teaspoon each.
- Leftover grilled chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Serve with a side of grilled vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
