This Grilled Italian Lemon Garlic Chicken is a tasty treat that makes dinners feel extra special! Marinated in lemon juice, garlic, and Italian herbs, it’s fresh and zesty.
Cooking this chicken makes your kitchen smell amazing! I love pairing it with a simple salad or some roasted veggies—perfect for a cheerful meal any night of the week!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish due to their lean nature. If you’re looking for a substitute, try chicken thighs for a juicier option, or even tofu for a vegetarian take!
Lemons: Fresh lemons are essential for zing and zest. If you’re out of lemons, lime juice works wonderfully as a replacement. It still brings that refreshing citrus flavor. I often keep both on hand for variety!
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives a bold punch to the marinade. If you don’t have fresh garlic, you can use garlic powder, but reduce the amount to about 1 teaspoon, as it’s more concentrated.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds flavor and helps with cooking. In case of allergies, avocado oil is a great substitute. It’s also high in healthy fats!
Oregano: Dried oregano brings an earthy touch, but if you’re out, feel free to swap it with Italian seasoning or even fresh oregano. Fresh herbs will elevate the dish!
What’s the Best Way to Marinate Chicken?
Marinating chicken is a key step for flavor and tenderness. It allows the acid from the lemon juice to work its magic while the oil helps lock in moisture. Here’s how to ensure perfect marination:
- Combine all marinade ingredients in a bowl, mixing well.
- Place chicken in a zip-top bag or dish, ensuring it’s fully coated with the marinade.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, but 2 hours is even better for maximum flavor.
Remember, don’t skip the resting time after grilling! It allows the juices to redistribute for juicier chicken. Enjoy with your favorite veggies or rice!
Grilled Chicken Breasts with Lemon Garlic
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 lemons (1 for zest and juice, 1 sliced)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
For the Marinade:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 30 minutes to marinate, plus about 15 minutes for grilling. In total, you’re looking at around 1 hour. Perfect for a quick weekday dinner or a weekend BBQ!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
Start by combining the olive oil, juice and zest from one lemon, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and black pepper in a bowl. Use a whisk or fork to blend everything together until it’s nice and smooth. This marinade is what will give your chicken delicious flavor!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Next, take your chicken breasts and place them in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure to coat each piece well. If using a bag, seal it tightly and give it a gentle massage to ensure the marinade covers every bit of chicken. If in a dish, cover it with plastic wrap. Pop it into the fridge for at least 30 minutes—if you have time, letting it marinate for up to 2 hours will make it even tastier!
3. Preheat the Grill:
While the chicken is marinating, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you’re using a grill pan on the stovetop, heat it over medium-high as well. Make sure it’s nice and hot before adding the chicken for those perfect grill marks!
4. Grill the Chicken:
After marinating, take the chicken out of the fridge and discard the marinade. Place the chicken breasts on the hot grill. Grill them for about 6-7 minutes on one side. When it’s time to flip, place the lemon slices on top of the breasts and cook for another 6-7 minutes on the other side. You’re looking for a nice golden color and an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
5. Rest and Serve:
Once the chicken is cooked through, carefully remove it from the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute for a tender bite. Before serving, sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley on top for that lovely finishing touch. Enjoy your grilled chicken with your favorite side dishes!
Can I Use Bone-in Chicken Breasts for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just keep in mind that bone-in chicken breasts will take longer to cook through. Grill them for about 8-10 minutes per side, checking that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) at the thickest part.
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Lemons?
No problem! You can substitute fresh lemon juice with bottled lemon juice in a pinch. Use about 3 tablespoons of bottled lemon juice for this recipe. Just note that fresh lemons will provide a brighter flavor!
How Can I Store Leftover Grilled Chicken?
Store any leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the grill for a few minutes until heated through. Adding a splash of olive oil can help retain moisture!
Can I Marinate the Chicken Overnight?
Absolutely! Marinating the chicken overnight can enhance the flavors even more. Just ensure it’s kept in the refrigerator, and don’t marinate for more than 24 hours, as the acidity can affect the chicken’s texture.
