These grilled chicken breasts are packed with flavor from zesty lemon and tasty garlic. They’re juicy, easy to make, and perfect for any meal!
Cooking these is as simple as mixing ingredients and grilling away. I usually whip up some veggies to go with them—it makes my dinner plate look colorful and inviting!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for grilling, as they cook quickly and evenly. If you prefer dark meat, you can substitute with boneless, skinless thighs for extra juiciness.
Olive Oil: This adds flavor and moisture to the chicken. If you’re out of olive oil, feel free to use avocado oil or any other light cooking oil. Just keep in mind that flavors might vary slightly.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best taste, but you can substitute with 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder if needed. I find that fresh garlic provides a more robust flavor.
Lemons: Fresh lemons are key for that bright taste, but if you can’t find them, bottled lemon juice can work in a pinch. It won’t be as fresh, but it’ll save time.
Herbs: Dried oregano and thyme add wonderful aromas. If you have fresh herbs on hand, use them instead—they really enhance the dish! Just double the quantity for fresh.
How Do I Achieve Juicy Grilled Chicken?
To get juicy grilled chicken, marinating is essential! This step allows the flavors to penetrate. Here’s how to do it right:
- Combine all marinade ingredients in a bowl, whisk well.
- Place chicken in a resealable bag or dish, pour marinade over it, and ensure it’s coated.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. For maximum flavor, marinate for up to 4 hours, but avoid overnight to prevent the chicken from becoming mushy.
When grilling, make sure your grill is preheated. This helps sear the chicken quickly, locking in the juices. Check that the internal temperature hits 165°F (75°C). Let the chicken rest before slicing to keep those juices from escaping!
Grilled Chicken Breasts with Lemon Garlic
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
For the Marinade:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 lemons (juice and slices)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prep and at least 30 minutes to marinate. Additionally, you’ll need around 15 minutes to grill the chicken. Total time: approximately 55 minutes—most of which is marinating time for maximum flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a bowl, whisk together the olive oil, minced garlic, juice of one lemon, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. This will create a delicious marinade that’s full of flavor!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece is well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish, then pop it in the refrigerator to marinate for at least 30 minutes. If you have more time, up to 4 hours works great too!
3. Preheat the Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, get your grill preheating to medium-high heat. This will give your chicken a nice sear and keep it juicy.
4. Grill the Chicken:
Take the chicken out of the marinade, allowing any excess flavor to drip off. Place the chicken breasts directly on the grill. Grill for about 6-7 minutes on each side. They’re done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the chicken is no longer pink in the center.
5. Grill the Lemon Slices:
During the last few minutes of grilling, add the lemon slices to the grill. Grill them for about 2-3 minutes until they’re caramelized and have beautiful grill marks.
6. Let It Rest:
Once grilled, take the chicken and lemon slices off the grill, and let the chicken rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute and keeps the chicken moist!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the grilled chicken hot, topped with the caramelized lemon slices. If you like, garnish with fresh parsley for a touch of color and flavor. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Can I Use Bone-In Chicken Breasts Instead of Boneless?
Absolutely! If using bone-in chicken breasts, just be aware that they will take a little longer to cook. Grill them for about 8-10 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Make sure to check the temperature at the thickest part of the meat, as it takes longer for the heat to reach the bone.
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Lemons?
If you don’t have fresh lemons on hand, you can use bottled lemon juice as a substitute. Generally, 1 tablespoon of bottled lemon juice equals the juice of half a lemon. Just adjust the amount based on your taste preference. However, fresh lemons add better flavor and aroma, especially when grilled!
How to Store Leftover Grilled Chicken?
Store leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the chicken. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing it in a freezer bag. It will last for about 2-6 months in the freezer. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm it in the microwave or on the grill until heated through.
Can I Marinate the Chicken Overnight?
Yes, marinating the chicken overnight is a great idea! It allows the flavors to penetrate the meat more deeply. Just make sure not to marinate for longer than 24 hours, as the acidity in the lemon juice can start to break down the chicken and make it mushy.
