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Grilled Lemon Chicken Recipe

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4.3 from 7 reviews

A zesty and tender grilled lemon chicken recipe perfect for a quick, healthy meal. Marinated in a vibrant blend of olive oil, fresh lemon juice, garlic, and oregano, this chicken is grilled to juicy perfection and garnished with fresh parsley and lemon wedges for a refreshing finish.

Ingredients

Chicken and Marinade

  • 6 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (6 ounces each)
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1/4 cup lemon juice
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 2 teaspoons oregano
  • 4 garlic cloves, pressed
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For Serving

  • Chopped parsley or cilantro
  • Lemon wedges

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. If some parts are thicker, gently pound them until the thickness is even to ensure uniform cooking. This also helps tenderize the meat.
  2. Make the Marinade: In a bowl or resealable freezer bag, combine olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, oregano, pressed garlic, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to create a flavorful marinade.
  3. Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts into the marinade and toss to coat thoroughly. Seal the bag or cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse.
  4. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat to get a nice sear and perfect cooking temperature.
  5. Grill the Chicken: Place the marinated chicken on the preheated grill. Grill for about 5 to 7 minutes on one side without moving, then flip using tongs and grill another 5 to 7 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and juices run clear. Discard any remaining marinade.
  6. Serve: Remove the chicken from the grill. Sprinkle with chopped parsley or cilantro, serve with fresh lemon wedges, and your favorite vegetables or sides for a complete meal.

Notes

  • Ensure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.
  • For more flavor, marinate the chicken for up to 2 hours.
  • You can substitute oregano with thyme or rosemary for a different herb profile.
  • If you don’t have a grill, a grill pan or an outdoor grill works equally well.
  • To keep chicken moist, avoid flipping it too often while grilling.