This Grilled Lemon Chicken is tasty and full of flavor! The tangy lemon juice makes the chicken juicy and bright, perfect for a summer meal.
I love serving this with a simple salad or some rice. It’s quick to make, which means more time to enjoy the sunshine! ☀️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for grilling because they cook quickly and evenly. If you prefer, you can use thighs for more flavor, or even tofu for a vegetarian option!
Olive Oil: Olive oil enhances the marinade with its rich flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter option, avocado oil works well too or you can use canola oil for a milder taste.
Lemon Juice & Zest: Fresh lemon juice gives this dish a bright flavor. For a similar taste, lime juice can be a good substitute. Always zest the lemon before juicing; it’s easier and makes zesting cleaner!
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic adds depth. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can work, but fresh gives a unique kick that you don’t want to miss!
Oregano: Dried oregano is aromatic and adds a lovely herbal note. You might try fresh oregano if available, but use about three times the amount since fresh herbs are less potent.
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken is Juicy and Flavorful?
Marinating your chicken is crucial for both flavor and tenderness. A well-prepared marinade not only adds flavor but also helps keep the chicken moist while grilling. Here’s how to do it:
- Combine all marinade ingredients in a bowl and whisk them together.
- Make sure the chicken is fully coated by massaging the marinade into it. Seal well to avoid spills.
- Let it marinate for at least 1 hour – overnight is even better. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat and keeps it juicy.
During grilling, avoid pressing down on the chicken; this releases juices and dries it out. Instead, turn it once when you’re ready to check for doneness!
How to Make Grilled Lemon Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For Garnishing:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon slices
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious grilled lemon chicken recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and requires at least 1 hour to marinate (overnight is best for full flavor). Once you’re ready to grill, it will take another 12-15 minutes to cook. So, in total, you’re looking at about 1 hour and 30 minutes if you include the marinating time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
Start by grabbing a mixing bowl. In it, combine the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, lemon zest, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Use a whisk to mix everything together until it’s well blended. This tasty mixture will infuse great flavor into your chicken!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Next, take your chicken breasts and place them in a large 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 and pop it in the refrigerator. Let it marinate for at least 1 hour, but if you have time, try to leave it overnight—this will give you the best flavor!
3. Preheat and Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you’re using a grill pan, heat that over medium-high and lightly grease it to prevent sticking. Take the chicken out of the marinade, allowing any excess marinade to drip off. Don’t worry about the leftover marinade; you can throw it away. Now it’s time to grill! Place the chicken on the grill and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and you see beautiful grill marks.
4. Let It Rest and Serve:
Once the chicken is cooked, carefully remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps keep the juices in, making the chicken tender and delicious. When you’re ready to serve, embellish your grilled lemon chicken with fresh chopped parsley and some lemon slices for a pop of color and flavor. Enjoy your meal!
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will work wonderfully in this recipe. They tend to stay more moist and flavorful when grilled. Just keep the grilling time similar, checking for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure they are cooked through.
Can I Substitute Another Acid for Lemon Juice?
Yes, lime juice works as a fantastic alternative to lemon juice. It will give your chicken a slightly different flavor profile but will still be delicious. You can also use vinegar, like white wine or apple cider, but start with half the amount and adjust to taste, as the acidity can be stronger.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, warm it gently in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat to prevent it from drying out.
Can I Make the Marinade in Advance?
Yes, you can make the marinade 1-2 days in advance! Just mix all the marinade ingredients together and store it in an airtight container in the fridge until you’re ready to use it. This can save you time on the day you plan to grill.