This Grilled Lemon Pepper Chicken is a bright and zesty dish that’s perfect for any meal! The juicy chicken is seasoned with tangy lemon and a kick of black pepper, making it super tasty.
I love how easy it is to throw together! Just marinate, grill, and enjoy your delicious chicken. Pair it with veggies or a salad for a refreshing dinner that feels like summer! 🍋🍗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless are perfect for even cooking. If you want a change, try thighs, which are juicier and more flavorful. Just adjust the cooking time since they may take a little longer.
Olive Oil: This adds richness and helps the seasoning stick. If you’re out, canola or avocado oil can work too. They have a similar flavor and high smoking point for grilling.
Lemon Pepper Seasoning: It’s a key flavor here! If you can’t find it, mix equal parts black pepper and lemon zest as a substitute. You can also use citrus herb blend for a unique taste.
Herbs (Thyme and Rosemary): Dried herbs save time but fresh ones are more aromatic. If you’re using fresh, double the amount you’d use of dried. You can also swap with Italian seasoning for a different twist.
Asparagus: This is a great side but feel free to substitute with zucchini, bell peppers, or any favorite veggie that grills well. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.
How Do I Get Perfectly Grilled Chicken?
Getting that juicy grilled chicken takes a little know-how. Here’s how to ensure it cooks perfectly every time:
- Start with a hot grill. Preheating is key for a good sear and prevents sticking.
- Pat the chicken dry to help the seasoning adhere better. This also gives it a crispier outside.
- Use a meat thermometer. Cooking until it reaches 165°F (75°C) is safe and ensures juicy meat.
- Let it rest after grilling. This allows juices to redistribute, keeping every bite tender.
These steps will help you achieve delicious grilled chicken, and feel free to get creative with your seasonings too!
How to Make Grilled Lemon Pepper Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons lemon pepper seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or fresh, chopped)
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary (or fresh, chopped)
- Salt, to taste
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Lemon slices, for garnish
- Fresh parsley or thyme, for garnish
Optional Side:
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed (for grilling)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation and around 15-20 minutes for grilling. Adding some chill time for the flavors to mingle can help, but the total time is roughly 30-35 minutes. Perfect for a quick and yummy meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Grill:
Start by setting your grill to medium-high heat, which is about 400°F (200°C). This is crucial for getting those nice grill marks and ensuring the chicken cooks evenly.
2. Mix the Marinade:
In a small bowl, stir together the olive oil, lemon pepper seasoning, garlic powder, thyme, rosemary, salt, and lemon juice. This blend will infuse the chicken with amazing flavor!
3. Prepare the Chicken:
Take your chicken breasts and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps the marinade stick and gives a better grill result. Then, brush or rub the lemon pepper mixture all over each piece of chicken, covering all sides well.
4. Grill the Chicken:
Now, carefully place the chicken breasts on the hot grill. Let them cook for about 6-8 minutes on each side. Keep an eye on them! You want them to reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and have those beautiful grill marks.
5. Grill the Asparagus (Optional):
If you’re using asparagus, toss it with a drizzle of olive oil, a pinch of salt, and some pepper. You can place it on the grill alongside the chicken. Grill for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until it’s tender and has nice grill marks.
6. Let It Rest:
Once the chicken is done, take it off the grill along with the asparagus. Allow the chicken to rest for about 5 minutes. This step is important to keep it juicy!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Slice the chicken if you like and serve it on a plate. Garnish with fresh lemon slices and some chopped parsley or thyme for color and extra flavor. If you grilled the asparagus, add that as a delightful side!
Enjoy your flavorful, juicy grilled lemon pepper chicken with bright lemon accents and a lovely grilled side! It’s sure to be a hit!
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great choice for grilling as they are juicier and more forgiving if overcooked. Just increase the grilling time slightly, cooking until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
What if I Don’t Have Lemon Pepper Seasoning?
No worries! You can easily make your own by mixing black pepper with a bit of lemon zest. Use about 1 teaspoon of black pepper and add zest from half a lemon. You can also try a citrus herb blend for a different flavor profile.
Can I Marinate the Chicken Overnight?
Definitely! Marinating the chicken in the olive oil and seasoning mixture overnight will intensify the flavors. Just remember to cover it and keep it in the fridge.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any cooked chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or on the stovetop to prevent it from drying out. Enjoy within a few days for the best taste!
