Description
This zesty grilled chicken bursts with summery flavors of lemon, garlic, and herbs. Tender, juicy, and kissed by the grill’s char, it’s a quick, healthy crowd-pleaser perfect for backyard gatherings. Marinated for maximum flavor, this dish combines simplicity with superstar taste.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs total)
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
- Zest from 1 lemon
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves (or 1 tsp dried thyme)
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp salt
Instructions
- Place chicken breasts between sheets of parchment paper. Gently pound to 1-inch even thickness using a meat mallet.
- In a shallow dish, combine lemon juice, zest, garlic, thyme, oregano, salt, pepper, and olive oil. Whisk until fragrant. Add chicken, turning to coat. Cover and refrigerate 30-60 minutes (do not exceed 2 hours).
- Preheat grill to medium-high (375-400°F). Lightly oil grates.
- Grill chicken 6-7 minutes per side, until internal temperature reaches 165°F and edges are golden-charred. Avoid moving frequently to create grill marks.
- Let rest 5 minutes before slicing. Serve immediately with lemon wedges.
Notes
- If breasts vary in thickness, fold thinner edges under for even cooking
- Marinate at room temperature no longer than 20 minutes to prevent toughness
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: grilled chicken,dinner recipe,herb marinade,summer grilling,outdoor cooking