Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Grilled Lemon Chicken Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.1 from 62 reviews

  • Author: Ezabella
  • Total Time: 4 hours 30 minutes (including marinating)
  • Yield: 8 servings
  • Diet: Halal

Description

This Grilled Lemon Chicken recipe features juicy, marinated boneless chicken breasts infused with fresh lemon zest and juice, garlic, and parsley. Perfectly grilled or finished in the oven on a grill pan, this flavorful and healthy main dish is quick and easy, ideal for weeknight dinners or weekend cookouts. The simple marinade tenderizes the chicken and imparts a bright, citrusy flavor that pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes.

Ingredients

Chicken and Marinade

  • 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • ⅓ cup olive oil
  • Zest of 2 lemons
  • ⅓ cup fresh lemon juice (zest the lemons before juicing)
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
  • Salt and fresh ground pepper, to taste
  • 1 whole lemon, cut into slices (for garnish or serving)

Instructions

  1. Marinate the chicken: In a large ziplock bag, combine the chicken breasts, olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Seal the bag tightly and shake well to ensure all ingredients are evenly mixed. Place the bag in the refrigerator and marinate for 4 hours or preferably overnight to maximize flavor and tenderness.
  2. Prepare the grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high, about 375ºF to 400ºF. Brush the grill grates lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking and to enhance grill marks on the chicken.
  3. Grill the chicken: Remove the chicken breasts from the marinade, allowing excess to drip off. Place the chicken on the hot grill and cook undisturbed for about 5 minutes until grill marks appear and the chicken begins to brown.
  4. Flip and finish grilling: Turn the chicken breasts over, close the grill lid, and continue cooking for another 7 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165ºF using a meat thermometer. Cooking times may vary based on thickness.
  5. Rest the chicken: Remove the grilled chicken from the heat and cover loosely with foil. Let it rest for 5 minutes to redistribute juices, ensuring a juicy bite when served.
  6. Optional – Grill pan instructions: For indoor cooking, preheat your oven to 350ºF. Grease a grill pan with cooking spray and set it over medium-high heat on the stovetop.
  7. Sear the chicken on grill pan: Add the marinated chicken breasts to the grill pan and cook for 4 minutes. Flip and sear the other side for 2 minutes until lightly browned.
  8. Finish cooking in oven: Transfer the grill pan to the preheated oven and bake for 18 to 20 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165ºF. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 to 8 minutes before slicing.
  9. Serve: Garnish with lemon slices if desired and enjoy your flavorful grilled lemon chicken alongside your favorite sides.

Notes

  • Marinating overnight yields more tender and flavorful chicken but 4 hours minimum is sufficient.
  • Always check the internal temperature of chicken to ensure it is safely cooked to 165ºF.
  • If using a grill pan indoors, make sure it is oven safe before transferring to the oven.
  • You can substitute fresh herbs like thyme or oregano for parsley for a different flavor profile.
  • Serve with grilled vegetables, salad, or rice for a complete meal.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: American

Find it online: https://kitchenloving.com/grilled-lemon-chicken-recipe/