This Grilled Lemon Chicken is full of bright, zesty flavors! Marinated in lemon juice, garlic, and herbs, it’s juicy and oh-so-tasty.
If you’re like me, you can’t resist that grilled goodness. Serve it with a fresh salad, and you’re all set for a sunny day! 🍋✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for grilling because they cook evenly. If you’re looking for a change, you can use thighs for more flavor or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
Olive Oil: This adds richness to the marinade. If you’re out of olive oil, avocado oil or canola oil work well too. Just avoid strong flavored oils like sesame.
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice brightens the dish. Bottled lemon juice is a quick swap, but fresh has a better taste. For a twist, lime juice could also be a fun alternative!
Dijon Mustard: This brings a tangy depth. If you don’t have Dijon, brown mustard can substitute, or even a little bit of yellow mustard, though it will change the flavor slightly.
Honey: A touch of sweetness balances the acidity of the lemon. Maple syrup or agave syrup can work in a pinch if you want a vegan option.
How Do I Ensure the Chicken is Juicy and Flavorful?
Marinating is key to keeping your chicken juicy and full of flavor. Make sure to let it sit in the marinade for at least 30 minutes, but if you have time, aim for 2 hours. Just don’t go longer than that, as the acid from the lemon juice could start to break down the chicken too much.
- Whisk the marinade ingredients well before adding the chicken.
- If you’re grilling, preheat your grill to a nice medium-high heat to get those beautiful grill marks.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; 165°F (75°C) is your goal.
- Letting the chicken rest after grilling is important! This helps the juices redistribute, so every bite is tender and moist.
How to Make Grilled Lemon Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Marinade:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon slices, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious grilled lemon chicken takes about 10 minutes to prepare, and you should marinate it for at least 30 minutes, up to 2 hours for extra flavor. The actual grilling will take about 10-15 minutes. So, plan for a total of around 40 minutes to 2 hours, depending on marination time.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
Start by grabbing a mixing bowl. In it, whisk together the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, honey, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. This tasty mixture will be your marinade that adds great flavor to the chicken.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Take your chicken breasts and place them in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring that each piece is well-coated. Seal the bag tightly or cover the dish, and put it in the refrigerator. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes—longer if you can wait, as it enhances the flavor!
3. Preheat and Grill:
While the chicken is marinating, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Once ready, take the chicken out of the marinade and discard the marinade; we don’t want to use it again. Grill the chicken pieces for about 5-7 minutes on each side. You want to aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Look for those lovely grill marks—that’s a sign of deliciousness!
4. Rest and Serve:
After grilling, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This resting time allows the juices to redistribute, making the chicken more tender. When ready to serve, place the grilled chicken on a platter, sprinkle with chopped parsley, and add lemon slices on the side for a lovely presentation. Enjoy your flavorful grilled lemon chicken!
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great alternative and will add extra flavor and juiciness. Just make sure to adjust the grilling time since thighs may take a bit longer to cook—aim for about 7-9 minutes on each side, checking until they reach the internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
What if I Don’t Have Fresh Lemons?
No problem! You can substitute fresh lemon juice with bottled lemon juice. Just use about half the amount (1/8 cup) to avoid overpowering the flavor. Alternatively, you can also use lime juice for a different twist!
How Long Can I Marinate the Chicken?
For optimal flavor, marinating for at least 30 minutes is great, but you can marinate the chicken for up to 2 hours. If you’re planning to marinate it longer than that, it’s better to do so in the fridge to avoid any food safety issues.
Can I Store Leftover Grilled Chicken?
Yes, you can store leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the grill for a few minutes until heated through. You can also slice it and add it to salads or wraps for a tasty meal!
