Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken Recipe

Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken is an irresistible summertime favorite that brings the perfect balance of citrusy brightness and savory herbs to your grill. Each juicy bite is bursting with fresh flavors, thanks to a zesty lemon marinade and a blend of garden-fresh herbs. This easy recipe is not only quick to prepare, but it also delivers impressively juicy and tender chicken every time—ideal for family barbecues, healthy weeknight dinners, or any gathering where you want to wow with minimal effort.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

With just a handful of simple, wholesome ingredients, this recipe truly lets each flavor shine. Every item pulls its weight—bringing freshness, richness, or a pop of color to Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken, so don’t skip a single one!

• Chicken Breasts or Thighs (2 lbs): Use boneless, skinless pieces for quick grilling and maximum flavor absorption—breasts for leanness, thighs for extra juiciness.
• Olive Oil (1/4 cup): Adds richness and helps the marinade cling beautifully to the chicken, keeping it moist on the grill.
• Fresh Lemon Juice (3 tbsp): Delivers the dish’s signature bright tang—freshly squeezed is a must!
• Lemon Zest (1 tbsp): Intensifies the citrusy kick and brings out subtle aromatic notes in the marinade.
• Garlic, Minced (3 cloves): Adds a punchy depth of flavor that balances out the fresh herbs and lemon.
• Fresh Parsley, Chopped (2 tbsp): Offers verdant color and a mild, peppery bite that complements the citrus perfectly.
• Fresh Thyme Leaves (1 tbsp): Lends an earthy, woodsy aroma that rounds out the flavor profile.
• Fresh Rosemary, Chopped (1 tbsp): Just a touch gives you that unmistakable fragrant, piney taste that pairs perfectly with grilled poultry.
• Salt (1 tsp): Essential for bringing all the flavors together; don’t skimp!
• Black Pepper (1/2 tsp): Adds a gentle hint of heat and sharpness without overpowering the herbs and lemon.

How to Make Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken

Step 1: Make the Marinade

In a medium bowl or a large resealable bag, whisk together the olive oil, freshly squeezed lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, parsley, thyme, rosemary, salt, and black pepper. The mixture should look vibrant and smell incredible—this is where all the zesty, herby magic starts!

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Add your chicken pieces into the bowl or bag with the marinade. Toss until every piece is thoroughly coated, making sure the herbs and lemon zest are evenly distributed. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let all those bold flavors soak in (overnight makes it even better and juicier if you can plan ahead).

Step 3: Prep Your Grill

Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates if you want extra insurance against sticking—nothing should come between Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken and those gorgeous grill marks!

Step 4: Grill the Chicken

Remove the chicken from the marinade—discard any remaining liquid, as it’s done its job. Place the chicken on the hot grill, letting it cook for about 5 to 6 minutes per side. You’re looking for golden grill marks and an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Your kitchen (or backyard) should be filled with the most tantalizing lemony-herb aroma by now.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

Transfer the grilled chicken to a plate and let it rest for 5 minutes. This step keeps the meat juicy and ensures every bite is as tender as can be. Slice, serve, and enjoy the fruits of your (minimal) labor!

How to Serve Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken

Garnishes

Take your Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken to the next level with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley, lemon slices for extra zing, or a drizzle of olive oil just before serving. These finishing touches add fresh color and make your platter look even more enticing.

Side Dishes

This chicken loves company! Serve it with a crisp green salad, grilled seasonal vegetables, or a light grain dish like couscous or quinoa. For a heartier meal, classic potato salad or buttery corn on the cob play beautifully off those lemon-herb flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, slice grilled chicken and arrange over a big bed of greens for a protein-packed salad, or tuck pieces into warm pita with crunchy veggies for a Mediterranean wrap. You can also chop it up and toss with pasta, or add it to grain bowls for a satisfying lunch the next day.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, leftover Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken can be kept in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavors deepen as they sit, making the next day’s lunch even more delicious.

Freezing

If you want to extend the life of your grilled chicken, freeze it! Wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer bag or airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best texture.

Reheating

Gently reheat the chicken on the stove in a covered skillet with a splash of water or broth, or in the microwave in short bursts to prevent drying. If you want to recapture some of that grilled goodness, briefly warm it in an oven or on a hot grill just until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

Yes, you can substitute dried herbs, but use about one-third the amount (since dried herbs are more concentrated). The fresh herbs add a brighter, more vibrant flavor, but dried will work in a pinch for Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken.

How long should I marinate the chicken?

For best results, marinate for at least 1 hour and ideally up to overnight. The longer time allows the flavors to really seep in and tenderize the chicken, resulting in the most flavorful Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken.

Can this be made with bone-in chicken pieces?

Absolutely! This recipe works wonderfully with bone-in cuts like drumsticks or thighs. Just increase the grilling time, making sure to reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for food safety.

How do I prevent the chicken from sticking to the grill?

Always preheat the grill well and brush it with oil before adding the chicken. Also, don’t try to flip the chicken too early—it will naturally release from the grill when those beautiful marks develop, leaving your Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken picture-perfect.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Definitely! Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken holds up beautifully in the fridge or freezer, making it a star for meal preppers. Just store in portioned containers and add to salads, wraps, or grain bowls throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking to bring a burst of fresh, sunny flavor to your dinner table, you can’t go wrong with Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken. It’s simple, it’s delicious, and it’s sure to become a staple in your grilling repertoire. Give it a try the next time the craving for something vibrant and satisfying strikes—your taste buds (and your guests) will thank you!

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