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Fresh Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken

lemon herb grilled chicken - featured image

Juicy, flavorful grilled chicken marinated in fresh lemon juice, garlic, and herbs. This easy citrus marinade delivers bright, comforting flavor perfect for cookouts, weeknight dinners, or meal prep.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
  • 2 large lemons, juiced and zested (about 1/4 cup juice)
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin preferred)
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary (or 2 teaspoons dried)
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (or 2 teaspoons dried)
  • 1 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (sea salt preferred)
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • Vegetable oil, for greasing the grill grates
  • Extra lemon slices, for serving (optional)
  • Fresh parsley or rosemary sprigs, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine lemon juice and zest, olive oil, minced garlic, rosemary, parsley, thyme (if using), salt, and black pepper. Whisk until well blended.
  2. Place chicken breasts in a zip-top bag or shallow dish. Pour marinade over chicken, ensuring all pieces are coated. Seal or cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, up to 4 hours.
  3. Preheat grill to medium-high (about 400Β°F). Brush grill grates with vegetable oil to prevent sticking.
  4. Remove chicken from marinade, shaking off excess but leaving herbs. Grill chicken 5-7 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 165Β°F.
  5. Transfer chicken to a plate, tent loosely with foil, and let rest for 5 minutes.
  6. Slice and serve with extra lemon wedges and fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

For best flavor, marinate chicken for 2-4 hours but do not exceed 24 hours. If using chicken thighs, adjust grill time to 7-8 minutes per side. Let chicken rest before slicing to retain juiciness. Dried herbs can be substituted for fresh, and lime may be used instead of lemon for a different citrus profile. Recipe is naturally gluten-free and dairy-free.

Nutrition

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