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Fresh Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken Breasts

fresh lemon herb grilled chicken breasts - featured image

A quick and easy grilled chicken recipe marinated in fresh lemon juice and herbs, delivering juicy, flavorful, and healthy chicken breasts perfect for weeknight meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (68 ounces / 170225 grams each)
  • Juice of 2 large fresh lemons (about 1/4 cup / 60 ml)
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) extra virgin olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves
  • 2 tablespoons fresh flat-leaf parsley, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes

Instructions

  1. Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels to help marinade stick and promote even grilling. (5 minutes)
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, parsley, salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. (5 minutes)
  3. Place chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish and pour marinade over them. Seal or cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes to 2 hours. (30-120 minutes)
  4. Preheat grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F / 200°C). Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking. (10 minutes)
  5. Remove chicken from marinade, letting excess drip off. Grill chicken for 6-7 minutes per side, flipping once, until grill marks form and chicken is firm with clear juices. (12-15 minutes)
  6. Check doneness with a meat thermometer; internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). If no thermometer, cut into thickest part to ensure juices run clear. (2 minutes)
  7. Transfer chicken to a plate and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing to lock in juices. (5 minutes)

Notes

Do not marinate chicken for longer than 2 hours to avoid toughening the meat. Pound chicken breasts to even thickness for faster, more even cooking. Rest chicken after grilling to keep it juicy. If no grill is available, use a grill pan, cast iron skillet, or broil in the oven. Keep grill grates clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.

Nutrition

Keywords: lemon herb grilled chicken, healthy chicken recipe, grilled chicken breasts, easy chicken marinade, summer chicken recipe, low carb chicken