These grilled chicken breasts are juicy and packed with flavor! The zesty lemon and aromatic garlic make every bite sing. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend barbecue!
I love how easy this recipe is! Just marinate the chicken, toss it on the grill, and it’s done in no time. It’s a hit at family gatherings—everyone asks for the recipe! 🍗💛
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for grilling. If you’re looking for something with a bit more flavor, chicken thighs can be a juicy alternative.
Olive oil: This adds richness to the marinade. If you’re out, feel free to use canola or avocado oil, which also have high smoke points.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is best for flavor. If you don’t have fresh on hand, pre-minced garlic or garlic powder will work, but the taste will be different.
Lemon: Fresh lemon juice brightens the dish. In a pinch, bottled lemon juice is better than nothing, but fresh is always best for that zesty taste.
Herbs: Fresh parsley is optional, but it adds freshness. If you can’t find fresh, dried herbs can be used, just remember to adjust the amounts since dried herbs are more potent.
How Do I Grill Chicken Without Drying It Out?
Grilling chicken can be tricky, but with the right approach, you can keep it moist and delicious. First, marinating the chicken is key; it helps to not only flavor the meat but also keep it tender. Make sure to let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or ideally 2 hours.
- Keep your grill at medium-high heat—too hot can dry out the chicken.
- Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, flipping only once. This helps seal in juices.
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after grilling; this allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.
- Add lemon slices to the grill in the last few minutes; they caramelize beautifully and add extra flavor.
Grilled Chicken Breasts With Lemon Garlic
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, juiced (plus extra lemon slices for grilling)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
For Garnish (Optional):
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious grilled chicken recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and at least 30 minutes of marinating in the fridge (or up to 2 hours for extra flavor). You’ll also need around 15 minutes for grilling. In total, plan for about 1 hour if you let the chicken marinate longer. Perfect for a tasty meal without too much fuss!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
Start by grabbing a mixing bowl. Combine the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, pepper, oregano, and thyme. Whisk everything together well until it’s nicely blended. This will create a yummy marinade for your chicken!
2. Marinade the Chicken:
Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour your freshly made marinade over them, making sure each piece is well-coated—this helps in infusing all those tasty flavors. Seal the bag or cover the dish and pop it in the fridge. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes, but if you have more time, 2 hours will really enhance the taste.
3. Preheat and Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. After the grill is hot, take the chicken out of the marinade and discard any leftover marinade. Place the chicken breasts on the grill and cook them for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until they’re fully cooked and have those lovely grill marks. In the last few minutes, throw some lemon slices on the grill to get them caramelized and add more flavor.
4. Rest and Serve:
Once the chicken is cooked perfectly, remove it from the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping your chicken moist. Serve it up with the grilled lemon slices on top, and sprinkle with fresh parsley if you like. Enjoy your flavorful and juicy grilled chicken!
Can I Use Bone-In Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use bone-in chicken pieces! Just be sure to increase the cooking time to about 10-12 minutes per side, depending on the size of the pieces. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
What If I Don’t Have Olive Oil?
No problem! You can substitute olive oil with any neutral-tasting oil like canola or vegetable oil. You can also use melted coconut oil for a different flavor profile, but keep in mind it may add a slight sweetness to the dish.
How to Store Leftover Grilled Chicken?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a microwave, on low power, or reheat in a skillet on the stove for best results. To keep it juicy, add a splash of chicken broth or water while reheating.
Can I Marinate the Chicken Overnight?
Absolutely! Marinating the chicken overnight will enhance the flavors even more. Just be cautious not to exceed 24 hours, as the acidity from the lemon can start to break down the meat, making it mushy.
