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
Scale
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.
