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Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for grilling as they cook evenly. You can substitute thighs if you prefer a richer flavor or need a more affordable option.
Olive Oil: This is the base of your marinade. Extra virgin olive oil is my choice for its flavor, but you can also use avocado oil or vegetable oil if you have those on hand.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens the dish. If you don’t have lemons, bottled lemon juice can work, but fresh is always better for taste.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic adds depth. You can use garlic powder in a pinch, about 1/2 teaspoon should do, but fresh is much stronger and more flavorful.
Oregano: Dried oregano brings an Italian twist to the marinade. If you don’t have oregano, Italian seasoning or even dried thyme can be good replacements.
How Do You Ensure Your Chicken is Juicy and Flavorful?
The marinating step is essential for flavor and tenderness. Make sure to coat the chicken well in the marinade and let it sit for at least 30 minutes. For the best results, aim for about 4 hours—this really lets the flavors sink in.
- Use a resealable bag to ensure the marinade covers every piece evenly.
- Don’t skip the resting period after grilling. This helps the juices redistribute inside the chicken.
- To check doneness, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
How to Make Grilled Lemon Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon slices (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare, plus at least 30 minutes of marinating time, and then around 15 minutes for grilling. Overall, you’ll be ready to enjoy your delicious grilled lemon chicken in about 55 minutes, depending on how long you choose to marinate the chicken.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, freshly squeezed lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper until everything is well combined. This fragrant marinade will give your chicken lots of flavor!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure it’s evenly coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and pop it in the refrigerator. Let it marinade for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours if you have the time. The longer it sits, the tastier it gets!
3. Grill the Chicken:
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess drip off (be sure to discard the marinade). Place the chicken on the grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side. You’ll know it’s done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and you can see those beautiful grill marks.
4. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the chicken is grilled to perfection, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps keep the chicken juicy. Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon slices for a bright touch, then serve alongside your favorite side dishes. Enjoy your delicious grilled lemon chicken!
Can I Use Bone-in Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just keep in mind that bone-in chicken may take longer to cook than boneless. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and adjust grilling time to about 8-10 minutes per side.
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Lemon Juice?
No worries! You can substitute with bottled lemon juice, but fresh juice creates a brighter flavor. Use the same amount, about 1/4 cup, and consider adding a tiny splash of vinegar for extra tang!
How to Store Leftover Grilled Chicken?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze grilled chicken for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing it in a freezer bag!
What Sides Pair Well with Grilled Lemon Chicken?
This dish goes wonderfully with a variety of sides! Try serving it with a fresh garden salad, roasted vegetables, or a light pasta dish. Alternatively, some fluffy rice or quinoa can also complement the flavors beautifully!
