Zesty Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken Recipe

Looking for a flavorful and juicy chicken dish that’s perfect for grilling season? This Zesty Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken recipe is just what you need! With boneless skinless chicken breasts marinated in a delightful mixture of lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and fresh herbs, you’re in for a treat. It’s simple to prepare and packed with refreshing flavors that will make your taste buds dance.

Imagine biting into tender chicken infused with the bright notes of zesty lemon and fragrant herbs like fresh thyme and fresh rosemary. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or simply cooking dinner for your family, this recipe is sure to impress. Just a sprinkle of salt and black pepper elevates the taste, making it a go-to favorite for any occasion.

Flavorful Ingredients for Grilling

The foundation of a great grilled chicken dish lies in its ingredients. For this lemon herb grilled chicken, boneless skinless chicken breasts are the star of the show, offering a lean and juicy protein option. The marinade features the bright zing of lemon juice, which beautifully complements the richness of olive oil.

Garlic adds a savory depth, while fresh thyme and rosemary introduce an aromatic touch. A sprinkle of salt and black pepper enhances the overall flavor profile, making each bite a delightful experience. The combination of these ingredients not only creates a mouthwatering dish but also provides a refreshing taste that pairs perfectly with various sides.

Marination Process

To achieve the best flavor, marinating the chicken is essential. Start by preparing the marinade, where lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, fresh thyme, fresh rosemary, salt, and black pepper come together. This mixture is a burst of flavor just waiting to infuse the chicken.

Once the marinade is ready, place the chicken breasts in a zip-top bag or a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Sealing the bag or covering the dish allows the chicken to soak up all those delicious flavors. For optimal results, refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, although up to 4 hours is even better.

Grilling to Perfection

When you’re ready to grill, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and achieves those beautiful grill marks. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess drip off before placing it on the grill.

Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side. The goal is to achieve an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C), guaranteeing that the chicken is both safe to eat and perfectly juicy. The grilling process enhances the flavors, resulting in a slightly charred exterior that contrasts beautifully with the tender meat inside.

Presentation and Serving Suggestions

Once grilled, allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes. This step is vital as it helps retain the juices. When ready to serve, slice the chicken and arrange it on a white plate, garnished with fresh thyme and rosemary for an appealing presentation.

A few lemon wedges and additional herb sprigs add a vibrant touch and a pop of color. The rustic wooden table backdrop enhances the homely feel, making this dish perfect for gatherings or a comforting dinner at home.

Nutritional Benefits

This grilled lemon herb chicken is not only delicious but also nutritious. Each serving contains around 220 calories, with a healthy balance of protein and fats. The inclusion of fresh herbs and lemon juice not only enhances flavor but also brings in vitamins and antioxidants.

With 30 grams of protein per serving, this dish is an excellent choice for those looking to maintain a healthy diet without sacrificing taste. The low carbohydrate content makes it suitable for various dietary preferences, making it a versatile addition to any meal plan.

Final Thoughts

This beautifully grilled lemon herb chicken breast serves as a fantastic main dish, ideal for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to elegant gatherings. The combination of zesty lemon, fragrant herbs, and grilled perfection creates a meal that’s both satisfying and memorable.

Don’t hesitate to experiment with different sides, such as grilled vegetables or a fresh salad, to complement this flavorful chicken. With its simplicity and taste, this recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite in your culinary repertoire.

Delicious and Easy Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken

Grilled lemon herb chicken breast garnished with herbs and lemon wedges on a rustic wooden table.

This Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken is a bright and flavorful dish that combines the tanginess of lemon juice with the richness of olive oil and the aromatic qualities of garlic and fresh herbs. The chicken is marinated to perfection and grilled until juicy and slightly charred, making it a delightful addition to any meal.

Ingredients

  • 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • 1/4 cup lemon juice
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon salt, adjust to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, adjust to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, fresh thyme, fresh rosemary, salt, and black pepper.
  2. Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a zip-top bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for more flavor.
  3. Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
  4. Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade and let any excess marinade drip off. Place the chicken on the grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
  5. Rest and Serve: Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm with your favorite sides.

Cook and Prep Times

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Marination Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Servings: 4 servings
  • Calories: 220kcal
  • Fat: 10g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Carbohydrates: 1g

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