The Ultimate Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Breast Recipe – Ready in 20 Minutes!

I first became aware of the magic of basic, fresh ingredients on a pleasant summer evening. Friends and family were abounding in my backyard BBQ, and even though I had a lot of food ready, the grilled lemon herb chicken breast really took front stage. The marinating of this chicken breast in zesty lemon juice, fresh herbs, and garlic immediately made it popular. The acidic marinade exactly complemented the smoky taste from the grill. Ever since that day, this meal has been my go-to family dinner, laid-back get-together, or even weekly meal prep.

Now, I’m sharing this incredible recipe with you. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or someone looking for a quick, healthy meal, this grilled lemon herb chicken breast will become a favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Breast Recipe

For a number of reasons, this dish is a winner. First, it’s healthy; low in fat but high in lean protein from the chicken breast. Grilling the chicken adds a fantastic smokey dimension that is difficult to achieve with other cooking techniques. Though simple to prepare, the marinade is bursting in taste from fresh lemon, herbs, and garlic.

Furthermore, this cuisine is highly adaptable. It’s a basic workday dinner or the highlight of a dinner party. It’s also fantastic for meal planning because it perfectly reheats.

Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Breast Recipe

Recipe by Chef SarahCourse: LunchCuisine: MediterraneanDifficulty: Easy

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

10

minutes

Cooking time

25

minutes

Calories

320

kcal

To make this delicious grilled lemon herb chicken breast, you’ll need a few simple ingredients:

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 ½ to 2 pounds)

• ¼ cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)

• 3 tablespoons olive oil

• 3 garlic cloves, minced

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped

• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped

• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• Optional: lemon slices and extra herbs for garnish

Directions

• Marinate the Chicken
• Start in a bowl, mixing together the lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, fresh herbs, salt, and pepper. After arranging the chicken breast in a shallow dish or resealable plastic bag, cover with marinade. Seal and chill for at least half an hour; overnight marinating is preferable for optimum taste.
• Preheat and Prepare the Grill
• While your chicken is marinating, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. It’s important to let the grill heat up fully to ensure even cooking. Brush the grill grates with oil to prevent the chicken from sticking.
• Grill the Chicken to Perfection
• Place the grilled lemon herb chicken breasts on the preheated grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Remember not to press down on the chicken while grilling, as this will release the juices and lead to dry meat. Once done, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.

Notes

• For best results, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate. However, marinating overnight provides even more flavor.
• Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F) to ensure the chicken cooks evenly without drying out.
• Use a meat thermometer to check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure it’s fully cooked and safe to eat.
• After grilling, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing to retain its juices and keep it tender.

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• How to Make the Perfect Chicken Katsu at Home: A Delicious and Crispy Guide
• How to Make the Perfect Chipotle Barbacoa at Home: A 10-Step Guide for Ultimate Flavor
• Sinigang Recipe: 5 Easy Steps to Make Filipino Sour Soup for Beginners

Tips for Making the Best Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Breast

• Marinate for at least 30 minutes, but overnight is ideal for maximum flavor.
• Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking the chicken.
• Fresh herbs provide a brighter flavor than dried herbs.
• Don’t skip letting the chicken rest – it helps retain the juiciness.

For more grilling tips, check out this guide to perfect grilling to elevate your BBQ game.

Lemon Herb Chicken Breast Marinade Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is how adaptable it is. Here are some variations you can try:

• Citrus swap: Try lime, orange, or grapefruit juice for a different citrus kick.
• Herb choices: Swap the herbs for basil, cilantro, or oregano to change the flavor profile.
• Spicy version: Add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne for some heat.

For more marinade ideas, this article offers a range of flavorful combinations.

Serving Suggestions for Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Breast

This grilled chicken breast pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Try serving it with:

• Grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus
• A side of fluffy quinoa, brown rice, or couscous
• A fresh salad with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette
• Use leftovers to make a chicken wrap, sandwich, or even a hearty salad

How to Store and Reheat Grilled Chicken

Leftovers from this recipe store well in the fridge for 3-4 days. Make sure the chicken is fully cooled before storing it in an airtight container. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months.

To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the chicken dry.

Health Benefits of Lemon and Herbs in Your Diet

Not only is this recipe delicious, but it’s also packed with health benefits. Lemons are a great source of vitamin C, which boosts your immune system. Herbs like parsley and rosemary are rich in antioxidants, which can reduce inflammation and support heart health.

Additionally, using fresh ingredients like garlic and olive oil adds layers of health benefits, from improving heart health to aiding digestion.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Grilling Chicken

Avoid these pitfalls to ensure your grilled lemon herb chicken breast turns out perfect every time:

• Overcooking: Always use a meat thermometer to avoid dry chicken. The internal temperature should reach 165°F.
• Not letting the chicken rest: Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after grilling so the juices don’t escape.
• Improper grill prep: Make sure your grill is clean and well-oiled to prevent sticking.

Conclusion

The grilled lemon herb chicken breast is a simple yet flavorful dish that fits perfectly into any meal plan. Whether you’re preparing it for a weeknight dinner or a weekend BBQ, its tangy, herby taste is sure to please. Give this recipe a try, and don’t be surprised when it becomes a regular in your kitchen!

Frequently Asked Questions About Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Breast