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lemon herb grilled chicken 1

Lemon-Herb Grilled Chicken

This summer chicken recipe transforms ordinary poultry into a juicy, aromatic masterpiece that captures the essence of outdoor cooking. With bright citrus notes and fragrant herbs, this dish promises to elevate your weeknight dinners and weekend gatherings alike.
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Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Keyword: Grilled Chicken, Lemon Herb, Summer Recipe, Healthy Chicken
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Marination Time: 4 hours
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 275kcal

Equipment

  • Grill
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Whisk
  • Meat Thermometer

Ingredients

For the Marinade

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts about 2 pounds total
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil substitute: avocado oil for a higher smoke point
  • 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice approximately 2 medium lemons
  • 2 tablespoons lemon zest
  • 4 garlic cloves minced (substitute: 1 teaspoon garlic powder)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary finely chopped (substitute: 2 teaspoons dried)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves substitute: 2 teaspoons dried
  • 1 tablespoon fresh oregano substitute: 1 teaspoon dried
  • 1 tablespoon honey substitute: maple syrup for less refined option
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional, for heat

For Garnish

  • lemon slices for garnish
  • fresh herbs for garnish

Instructions

  • In a medium bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, chopped herbs, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
  • If the chicken breasts are particularly thick, consider butterflying or pounding them to an even thickness of about ¾ inch.
  • Place chicken in a glass dish or resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are well coated. Massage the marinade into the chicken if using a bag.
  • Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, though 4-8 hours will yield significantly more flavorful results.
  • Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (approximately 375-425°F). For gas grills, preheat with the lid closed for 10-15 minutes. For charcoal grills, allow coals to burn until they have a light ash coating.
  • Remove chicken from marinade and let excess drip off. Place chicken on the preheated grill and cook for 5-7 minutes per side until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
  • For perfect crosshatch grill marks, rotate the chicken 90 degrees halfway through cooking each side.
  • Transfer the grilled chicken to a clean plate and tent loosely with foil. Allow to rest for 5 minutes.
  • Garnish with fresh lemon slices and additional herbs before serving.

Notes

For best results, marinate the chicken for at least 4 hours or overnight. If you don't have a grill, you can use a grill pan, cast-iron skillet, or broil the chicken in the oven. The chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, making it perfect for meal prep.

Nutrition

Calories: 275kcal | Carbohydrates: 4g | Protein: 38g | Fat: 12g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Cholesterol: 110mg | Sodium: 420mg | Potassium: 550mg | Fiber: 0.5g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 180IU | Vitamin C: 15mg | Calcium: 25mg | Iron: 8mg
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