Are you ready to elevate your weeknight dinners with a dish that’s bursting with flavor and can be made in just 30 minutes? I’m excited to share my recipe for Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken! This dish is not only delicious but also a fantastic option for quick family dinners. With fresh herbs and zesty lemon, it’s a perfect way to bring a taste of summer to your table any time of the year. Plus, it pairs beautifully with easy pasta recipes or a fresh salad!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Packed with fresh flavors from lemon and herbs.
- Healthy and low-calorie, making it a great choice for health-conscious eaters.
- Versatile – pairs well with a variety of sides, including crispy baked zucchini chips or whole wheat spaghetti.
- Great for meal prep or serving at family gatherings.
Ingredients
To make this delightful Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken, you will need the following ingredients:
- 4-6 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- Juice of 2 lemons
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.
How to Make the Recipe
Let’s dive into the cooking instructions for this scrumptious dish:
- Prepare the Marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, oregano, basil, thyme, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor.
- Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using a charcoal grill, prepare the coals for direct grilling.
- Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade and let any excess drip off. Place the chicken on the preheated grill. Cook for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the chicken is no longer pink in the center.
- Rest and Serve: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in juicier chicken. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve hot.
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
Here are some helpful suggestions to ensure your grilled chicken turns out perfectly every time:
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken overnight if you have the time.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; it’s the best way to ensure juicy chicken.
- Feel free to experiment with different herbs based on your preference – rosemary or cilantro can add a unique twist!
- If you don’t have a grill, you can also cook the chicken in a grill pan on the stove or bake it in the oven.
How to Serve
This Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken is incredibly versatile! Here are some serving suggestions:
- Serve it alongside whole wheat spaghetti tossed in a light olive oil and garlic sauce for a delightful meal.
- Pair it with a fresh garden salad or roasted vegetables for a healthy dinner.
- Slice the chicken and add it to wraps or sandwiches for a quick lunch option.
- Top it with a creamy garlic sauce for a rich flavor boost!
Make Ahead and Storage
If you’re looking for 30-minute meals that can be prepped in advance, this recipe is perfect! Here’s how to store it:
- Marinate the chicken in advance and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 2 hours before grilling.
- Cooked chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Reheat in the microwave or on the grill for a quick dinner option later in the week.
- This chicken also freezes well! Just make sure to wrap it tightly to prevent freezer burn.
Now that you have this delicious recipe in your arsenal, you can enjoy flavorful, healthy dinners that the whole family will love. Whether you’re looking for quick dinner ideas or planning a family gathering, this Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken is sure to impress. Happy cooking!
Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken
Ingredients
Protein
- 4-6 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- ⅓ cup olive oil
- Juice of 2 lemons lemon juice
- Zest of 1 lemon lemon zest
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- to taste Salt and pepper
Garnish
- optional Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, herbs, salt, and pepper to make marinade.
- Marinate chicken in mixture for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
- Grill chicken 6-7 minutes per side until cooked through.
- Rest briefly, garnish with parsley if desired, and serve hot.