Craving a flavorful, guilt-free meal? This Lemon Garlic Herb Grilled Chicken recipe delivers tender, juicy chicken bursting with bright, aromatic flavors. It’s an easy healthy chicken recipe perfect for any weeknight or weekend cookout.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work best.
- Lemons: Fresh lemon juice is essential.
- Garlic: Fresh minced garlic offers the best flavor. Garlic powder can be a substitute in a pinch.
- Herbs: Fresh rosemary and thyme are highly recommended. Dried herbs can be used, but reduce the quantity.
- Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is ideal for the marinade.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- ¼ cup fresh lemon juice (from 1-2 lemons)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus 30 minutes marinating)
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories per serving: Approximately 250-300 kcal (varies by chicken size)
- Tools Needed: Mixing bowl, whisk, tongs, grill or grill pan.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken
Pat your chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps the marinade adhere better and promotes even cooking. You can pound thicker parts of the chicken to an even thickness for consistent results.
2. Make the Marinade
In a medium bowl, whisk together the fresh lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, chopped thyme, salt, and black pepper. This simple marinade is key to this easy healthy chicken recipe.
3. Marinate the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts in the bowl with the marinade, ensuring they are fully coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours, to allow the flavors to penetrate.
4. Preheat Your Grill
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F or 200°C). Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking. A clean, hot grill is crucial for good grill marks.
5. Grill the Chicken
Place the marinated chicken breasts on the hot grill. Cook for 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when checked with a meat thermometer. Avoid moving the chicken too much to get a nice sear.
6. Rest and Serve
Once cooked, transfer the grilled chicken to a cutting board. Tent it loosely with foil and let it rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a more tender and flavorful result for your easy healthy chicken recipe.
Variation Ideas:
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade for a little heat.
- Citrus Twist: Experiment with other citrus juices like orange or lime for a different flavor profile.
- Veggie Boost: Grill some sliced zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus alongside the chicken.
- Herb Swap: Use fresh oregano or parsley instead of, or in addition to, rosemary and thyme.
Storage Instructions:
Store any leftover Lemon Garlic Herb Grilled Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, warm gently in a microwave or a skillet over low heat until just heated through to avoid drying it out. This makes it a great meal prep option for easy healthy chicken recipes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Can I bake this chicken instead of grilling?
Yes, you can! Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?
Avoid overcooking the chicken. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C) and then remove it from the heat. Resting the chicken also helps retain moisture.
What side dishes pair well with this chicken?
This grilled chicken pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, a fresh green salad, quinoa, brown rice, or even some simple grilled corn.
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, but make sure to thaw it completely before marinating. Marinating frozen chicken is not recommended as it won’t absorb the flavors properly.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this Lemon Garlic Herb Grilled Chicken recipe is naturally gluten-free.
Can I prepare the marinade ahead of time?
You can mix the marinade ingredients up to 2 days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just add the chicken when you’re ready to marinate.