Zesty Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken Recipe for Summer BBQs

The moment you take a bite of Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken, you’re transported to a sun-drenched terrace with the smell of citrus and herbs wafting through the air. This dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience filled with juicy chicken, zesty lemon, and a medley of fresh herbs that dance together in perfect harmony. For more inspiration, check out this lunch options recipe.

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Picture this: your friends gather around the grill, laughter fills the air, and that first sizzle from the chicken on the grill promises an explosion of flavor. Whether it’s a summer barbecue or a cozy family dinner, this Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken will steal the show and leave everyone asking for seconds. For more inspiration, check out this dinner recipes recipe.

I remember one sunny afternoon when I grilled this recipe at a family gathering. My uncle couldn’t stop raving about how tender and flavorful it was, while my aunt was busy trying to sneak an extra piece when no one was looking.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts to ensure everyone gets enough tasty goodness.

• Fresh Garlic: Choose firm cloves for the best flavor; they add a delightful aroma when grilled.

• Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed is key; bottled juice just doesn’t have that zingy brightness.

• Olive Oil: Go for extra virgin olive oil; it enhances the flavor while keeping everything moist.

• Fresh Herbs (Parsley, Thyme, Rosemary): These bring freshness; feel free to mix and match based on what you love.

• Salt and Pepper: Simple but essential; these elevate all flavors in your dish.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken

Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, chopped herbs, salt, and pepper. Add chicken breasts and coat well. Cover and let marinate for at least 30 minutes.

Preheat the Grill: Prepare your grill by preheating it to medium-high heat. A properly heated grill helps achieve those beautiful grill marks and locks in moisture.

Grill the Chicken: Place marinated chicken on the grill once hot. Grill each side for about 6-7 minutes until golden brown and cooked through; look for those tantalizing char marks.

Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to check that your chicken has reached 165°F (75°C). This ensures it’s safe to eat while remaining juicy.

Rest Before Serving: Once done grilling, remove chicken from heat and let it rest for 5 minutes. This allows juices to redistribute throughout the meat.

Serve with Style: Slice or serve whole with additional lemon wedges on the side. Pair with seasonal veggies or a refreshing salad for a complete meal!

Now that you have all these tips up your sleeve, it’s time to unleash your inner grill master! Enjoy cooking this delightful Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken that’s sure to become a favorite in your home!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by marinating the chicken for at least one hour to infuse flavors; then grill over medium heat for about 6-7 minutes per side.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap lemon with lime or add herbs like rosemary for an extra flavor kick.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat gently in the oven to avoid drying it out.

Sharing a memorable moment, I once made this dish for a summer cookout, and my friends were convinced I had some secret chef training. Their compliments were honestly the best seasoning!

FAQ

How long should I marinate Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken?

Marinate for at least one hour, but overnight yields even better flavors.

Can I bake Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken instead of grilling?

Yes! Bake at 375°F for about 25-30 minutes until fully cooked.

What sides pair well with Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken?

Consider pairing with grilled vegetables or a refreshing salad for a complete meal.

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Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 44 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Experience the sunshine in every bite of Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken. This zesty dish combines juicy, marinated chicken breasts with fresh herbs and bright lemon juice, making it perfect for summer barbecues or cozy dinners. Simple to prepare yet bursting with flavor, it’s sure to impress your guests and keep them coming back for more.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
• 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1/4 cup mixed fresh herbs (parsley, thyme, rosemary), chopped
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper

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Instructions

1. In a large bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, chopped herbs, salt, and pepper. Add chicken breasts and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
3. Grill the marinated chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
4. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing or serving whole with lemon wedges.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 14 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 chicken breast (approximately 6 ounces)
• Calories: 284
• Sugar: 0g
• Sodium: 490mg
• Fat: 13g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 40g
• Cholesterol: 120mg

Keywords: For added flavor, consider swapping lemon for lime or incorporating your favorite herbs like rosemary or oregano. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days and reheat gently in the oven.