This grilled lemon chicken is juicy and bursting with zesty flavor. The bright lemon gives it a refreshing twist that makes it perfect for sunny days or summer barbecues!
You can’t go wrong with this easy recipe! I love serving it with a side of fresh veggies or a light salad. It’s a hit with family and friends—who doesn’t love a bit of sunshine on their plate?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts provide a great lean protein source. If you’re looking for a different choice, try thighs for more juiciness or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
Olive Oil: It adds richness to the marinade. If you need a substitute, avocado oil or melted coconut oil works well, giving a nice flavor too.
Lemons: Fresh lemons are key for that zesty flavor. In a pinch, you can use bottled lemon juice, but fresh gives a brighter taste. Oranges can also be a nice, sweeter alternative!
Garlic: Fresh, minced garlic is best. If you don’t have fresh, garlic powder works too, but use about 1/4 teaspoon for each clove.
Herbs: Oregano and thyme are classic choices here. If fresh herbs are available, they can elevate the dish nicely. For a different flavor, try rosemary or basil.
How Do I Marinate Chicken for Maximum Flavor?
Marinating is key for infusing the chicken with delicious flavors. It’s simple, but timing is everything! Here’s how to do it:
- Whisk your marinade ingredients in a bowl. Mix well to combine.
- Place the chicken in a resealable bag or dish, then pour the marinade over it, ensuring it’s well-coated.
- Let the chicken soak in the marinade for at least 30 minutes, but 1-2 hours is ideal.
- Remember to discard the marinade after removing the chicken. Safety first!
For best results, try to marinate overnight if you can. It really makes the chicken juicy and packed with flavor!
How to Make Grilled Lemon Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Marinade:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Juice of 2 lemons
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Grilling:
- 2 lemons, sliced into rounds
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious grilled lemon chicken takes about 10 minutes to prepare and at least 30 minutes to marinate. You’ll spend around 15-20 minutes cooking on the grill, giving you a total time of about 1 hour for a flavorful and healthy meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. This mixture creates a zesty and aromatic marinade that will infuse the chicken with flavor.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece is coated well. Seal the bag or cover the dish, and pop it in the refrigerator. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, but 1-2 hours is even better for maximum flavor!
3. Prepare for Grilling:
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. While the grill heats up, drizzle a little olive oil over the trimmed asparagus and season with salt and pepper, giving it a light toss to coat. This will help the asparagus get nice and tender on the grill.
4. Grill the Chicken:
Once your grill is ready, take the chicken out of the marinade and let any excess drip off. Discard the leftover marinade. Place the chicken breasts on the grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side. You’ll know the chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
5. Grill the Asparagus and Lemon:
In the last few minutes of grilling, add the lemon slices and asparagus to the grill. Grill the asparagus for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are tender and have nice char marks. The lemon slices will become caramelized and add extra flavor!
6. Serve It Up:
Once everything is cooked, carefully remove the chicken, grilled lemon slices, and asparagus from the grill. Slice the grilled chicken and arrange it beautifully on a plate alongside the lemon slices and asparagus. Garnish with fresh parsley to add a pop of color before serving. Enjoy your delicious grilled lemon chicken meal!
Can I Use Bone-In Chicken Instead of Boneless?
Yes, you can use bone-in chicken pieces! Just be sure to adjust the grilling time, as they will take longer to cook. Grill them for about 10-12 minutes per side, checking that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
What Should I Do If I Don’t Have Fresh Lemons?
No worries! If you don’t have fresh lemons, you can substitute with bottled lemon juice. Use about 1/4 cup of bottled juice, but remember that fresh juice provides a brighter flavor. You can also use lime juice as a substitute for a different twist!
Can I Marinate the Chicken Overnight?
Absolutely! Marinating the chicken overnight will enhance the flavor even more. Just be careful not to exceed 24 hours, as the acidity in the lemon juice may start to break down the chicken and affect its texture.
How to Store Leftover Grilled Lemon Chicken?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove to avoid drying it out. You can also chop it up and use it in salads or wraps for an easy lunch!
