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 the 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; it’s 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 with 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 chicken breasts without skin or bones (between 1 and 2 pounds)

• ¼ a cup of freshly squeezed lemon juice (about two 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 the lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, fresh herbs, salt, and pepper. Place the chicken breast in a shallow dish or a plastic bag that can be sealed, then pour marinade over it. Seal and chill for at least half an hour; overnight marinating is preferable for optimum taste.
• Preheat and Prepare the Grill
• Set your grill to medium-high heat while your chicken marinates. To guarantee consistent cooking, it’s crucial to allow the grill to reach its maximum temperature. Grates on the grill should be gently oiled to prevent the chicken from sticking.
• Grill the Chicken to Perfection
• The grilled lemon herb chicken breasts should be placed on the preheated grill and cooked for about 6-7 minutes on each 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. Before serving, let the chicken rest for a few minutes so the liquids can re-distribute.

Notes

• Allow the flavors to seep into the chicken by marinating it for at least half an hour. However, marinating overnight provides even more flavor.
• Set your grill’s temperature to medium-high, or about 400°F, so the chicken cooks through without becoming dry.
• To make sure the chicken is cooked through and safe to consume, use a meat thermometer to make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
• After grilling, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing to retain its juices and keep it tender.

More Lunch Ideas You’ll Love:

• 30-Minute Irresistible Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Avocado-Lime Slaw
• 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 half an hour, but ideally overnight, for the best flavor.
• To prevent the chicken from being overcooked, use a meat thermometer.
• 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

This dish’s versatility is one of its finest features. Here are some options you may try out:

• 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 veggies such as asparagus, bell peppers, and zucchini
• A side of fluffy quinoa, brown rice, or couscous
• A mild vinaigrette and mixed greens in a fresh salad
• 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. Additionally, it may be frozen for up to three months.

To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through. Steer clear of the microwave as it may cause the chicken to get dry.

Health Benefits of Lemon and Herbs in Your Diet

This meal is full of health advantages in addition to being tasty. Vitamin C, which is abundant in lemons, strengthens 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