Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken

Why Make This Recipe

Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken is a fantastic choice for a simple and delicious meal. This recipe is light and full of flavor, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends. The bright taste of lemon and fresh herbs adds a special touch to the juicy chicken. Plus, it is quick to prepare, making it a great option for busy days.

How to Make Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 2 Tbsp olive oil
• Juice of 2 lemons
• 2 tsp lemon zest
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 Tbsp fresh thyme and fresh rosemary
• Salt and black pepper (to taste)

Directions:

To Make the Marinade:

1. In a bowl, mix together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, thyme, and rosemary.
2. Add salt and black pepper to taste. Stir the mixture well.

Prepare the Chicken:

1. Place the chicken thighs in a large resealable bag or a bowl.
2. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it is well coated.
3. Seal the bag or cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for more flavor.
4. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
5. Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the leftover marinade.
6. Grill the chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked and has nice grill marks.
7. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
8. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.

How to Serve Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken

You can serve Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken with a side of grilled vegetables, a fresh salad, or rice for a complete meal. For added flavor, you can drizzle some extra lemon juice over the top before serving.

How to Store Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken

Store any leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.

Tips to Make Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken

• Make sure to marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes to soak up all the flavors.
• If you don’t have fresh herbs, you can use dried herbs, but use less since dried herbs are more concentrated.
• For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade.

Variation

You can easily change this recipe by using different herbs like oregano or basil, or by adding a bit of honey for a touch of sweetness in the marinade. You can also substitute chicken thighs with chicken breasts if you prefer.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts instead of thighs. Just be careful not to overcook them, as they can dry out more easily.

How long can I marinate the chicken?

You can marinate the chicken for a minimum of 30 minutes and up to 4 hours for the best flavor.

Can I grill this chicken indoors?

Yes, if you don’t have access to an outdoor grill, you can use a grill pan on your stovetop or broil it in your oven. Just keep an eye on it to avoid burning.

Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken

A light and flavorful dish featuring marinated grilled chicken thighs with lemon and herbs, perfect for family dinners or gatherings.

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Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 14 minutes mins

Total Time 44 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: American, Grilled

Calories: 380

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

For the Marinade

• 2 Tbsp olive oil
• 2 juices Juice of 2 lemons
• 2 tsp lemon zest
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 Tbsp fresh thyme and fresh rosemary Can substitute with dried herbs.
• Salt and black pepper (to taste)

For the Chicken

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs Can be substituted with chicken breasts.

Method

 

Make the Marinade

1. In a bowl, mix together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, thyme, and rosemary.
2. Add salt and black pepper to taste. Stir the mixture well.

Prepare the Chicken

1. Place the chicken thighs in a large resealable bag or a bowl.
2. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it is well coated.
3. Seal the bag or cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for more flavor.
4. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
5. Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the leftover marinade.
6. Grill the chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked and has nice grill marks.
7. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
8. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

Make sure to marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes for maximum flavor. If using dried herbs, use less due to their concentration. Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.