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Infused with citrus and herbs in a quick marinade that locks in the flavor, this recipe for grilled lemon chicken breasts is anything but boring.
Juicy Lemon Chicken on the Grill
I love quick chicken marinades that I can make on any given day without planning. This recipe for grilled lemon chicken is one of them! You only need 30 minutes, and the chicken will be ready to grill.
You can make this recipe on the grill or in a pan, whatever works best for you. The result will be tender, juicy, flavorful grilled chicken breasts that pair great with any chicken side. Epic, I know!
Ingredients
What makes these chicken breasts so flavorful is a simple marinade made with olive oil, lemon, thyme (or oregano), and garlic. Nothing fancy, just everyday ingredients that infuse the meat with tons of deliciousness!
How to Make Grilled Lemon Chicken
Let the chicken breasts marinate for 30 minutes. That’s enough to absorb all the flavors! Then you simply cook the meat on the grill or grill pan for about 7 minutes per side. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving, and bon appétit!
How Long to Grill Chicken Breasts
Whether you use a grill or a grill pan, chicken breasts need about 12 to 14 minutes to be fully cooked. Since not all grills are the same and chicken sizes vary, I recommend checking chicken doneness with a meat thermometer. Once the internal temperature reaches 165F in the thickest part, the chicken breasts are done.
Easy Sides for Grilled Lemon Chicken
Pair this delicious grilled chicken with veggie kabobs, baked asparagus, or a fresh watermelon feta salad. For a complete feast, serve yourself a Lemon Lime Margarita and enjoy!
Grilled Lemon Chicken Breasts
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 lemons, juiced and zested
- 2 teaspoons thyme, or 1 teaspoon dried thyme or oregano
- 2 garlic cloves grated, or 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
Instructions
Prep:
- Pat dry the chicken breasts between two paper towels and pound any parts that are too thick to even out the thickness.
- In a marinade bag or container, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, thyme, garlic, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken breasts to the bag and zip it closed to seal. Marinate the chicken for 30 minutes.
Cook:
- Preheat the grill or grill pan over medium heat. Grill it for 7 minutes on the first side, use tongs to flip the chicken breast over, and grill it for another 5 to 7 minutes. If grilling outside, grill the chicken with the lid open first, then close the lid after flipping. Discard the marinade.
- When the chicken’s internal temperature has reached 165F, remove it from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
jen says
Juicy and delicius. A very good grilled lemon chicken recipe.
Marie says
delicious recipe. I followed the steps to the T and the chicken breasts turned out perfect, tasty, and not dry at all
Toni says
This grilled lemon chicken is super flavorful and juicy!
Katie says
This grilled lemon chicken was absolutely incredible. So juicy and delicious!