These grilled chicken breasts with lemon and garlic are juicy and full of flavor! The zesty lemon brightens up the delicious garlic, making each bite a treat.
Honestly, who doesn’t love a quick and tasty meal? I enjoy pairing this dish with a salad or some rice. It’s so easy, you’ll be making it regularly, trust me! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this recipe. If you prefer, you can use thighs for more flavor and juiciness. They’re slightly higher in fat but can be very tasty on the grill.
Olive Oil: This adds richness and helps the marinade stick. If you’re out of olive oil, avocado oil is a nice substitute with a similar flavor profile.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic brings a bold flavor. If you don’t have fresh garlic, garlic powder will work in a pinch; use about 1/4 teaspoon per clove.
Lemons: Fresh lemons are best for juicing and zesting. If using bottled lemon juice, ensure it’s 100% natural with no added sugars or preservatives, but fresh is always tastier.
Dried Herbs: The oregano and thyme add lovely flavors. If you only have Italian seasoning, that can be used instead, as it combines many herbs.
How Do I Marinate Chicken for Maximum Flavor?
Marinating is key to adding flavor and moisture to your chicken. Follow these steps to get the best results:
- Mix your marinade ingredients well in a bowl. If you can, add the minced garlic last, so it doesn’t clump.
- Place the chicken in a resealable bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over and make sure every part of the chicken is covered.
- Seal the bag or cover the dish tightly. For maximum flavor, aim for at least 1 hour in the fridge, but if you can do 4 hours, that’s even better!
When you’re ready to grill, let the chicken sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes. This helps it cook evenly. Happy grilling!
Grilled Chicken Breasts With Lemon Garlic
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 lemons (1 juiced and 1 sliced)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious grilled chicken recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare, plus at least 30 minutes for marinating. Including grilling, the total time is around 50 minutes. You can marinate it longer, up to 4 hours, for extra flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, oregano, thyme, salt, and black pepper. This mixture will add wonderful flavor to your chicken.
2. Marinating the Chicken:
Put the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over them, making sure the chicken is well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and place it in the refrigerator. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, but if you have more time, up to 4 hours will give even better flavor!
3. Preheat and Grill the Chicken:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard any extra marinade. Place the chicken breasts directly on the grill for about 6-7 minutes on one side.
4. Flip and Garnish:
Carefully flip the chicken over and place a slice of lemon on top of each breast. Continue grilling for another 6-7 minutes, or until the chicken has an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and is no longer pink inside.
5. Rest and Serve:
Once done, take the chicken off the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping it moist. If you’d like, garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your flavorful grilled chicken with the delicious grilled lemon slices on top!
Can I Use Bone-in Chicken Breasts Instead?
Absolutely! If you prefer bone-in chicken breasts, just be aware that they may take a bit longer to cook. Grill them for about 8-10 minutes on the first side and an additional 8-10 minutes after flipping, ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Lemons?
No problem! You can substitute fresh lemon juice with bottled lemon juice, using about 2 tablespoons for this recipe. However, fresh lemons will give a brighter flavor, so try to use fresh when possible.
Can I Marinate the Chicken Overnight?
Yes, marinating the chicken overnight is a great option! Just make sure to limit the marinade to a maximum of 24 hours, as the acids in the lemon juice can start to break down the chicken too much if left too long, which can lead to a mushy texture.
How Should I Store Leftover Grilled Chicken?
Store any leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or on a stovetop over low heat. If the chicken seems dry, adding a splash of chicken broth or water can help keep it moist.
