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Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Breasts

grilled lemon herb chicken breasts - featured image

A quick and easy grilled chicken recipe featuring a bright lemon and fresh herb marinade, perfect for light and flavorful summer dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 ounces / 170 grams each)
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) freshly squeezed lemon juice (from 2 medium lemons)
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) extra virgin olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes

Instructions

  1. Prepare the marinade: In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together lemon juice, lemon zest, olive oil, minced garlic, chopped parsley, chopped thyme, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
  2. Marinate the chicken: Place chicken breasts in a shallow dish or resealable plastic bag. Pour marinade over chicken, ensuring each piece is coated. Seal and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, up to 2 hours.
  3. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F / 200°C). Clean and oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
  4. Grill the chicken: Remove chicken from marinade, letting excess drip off. Place on grill and cook for 6-8 minutes per side, flipping once. Avoid pressing down on the chicken.
  5. Check doneness with an instant-read thermometer; chicken should reach 165°F (74°C). If no thermometer, cut into the thickest part to ensure juices run clear and meat is no longer pink.
  6. Rest the chicken: Transfer to a plate and cover loosely with foil. Let rest for 5 minutes to redistribute juices.
  7. Serve: Slice against the grain and spoon any resting juices over the top. Garnish with extra fresh herbs or lemon wedges if desired.

Notes

Marinate chicken for at least 30 minutes but no longer than 2 hours to avoid meat becoming tough. Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness. Rest chicken after grilling to keep it juicy. If chicken browns too quickly, move to a cooler part of the grill or lower heat. Pounding chicken breasts to even thickness helps cook evenly.

Nutrition

Keywords: grilled chicken, lemon herb chicken, summer dinner, easy chicken recipe, healthy chicken, grilled chicken breasts