Description
This Zesty Grilled Lemon Chicken Breast recipe features tender, juicy chicken breasts marinated in a vibrant mixture of lemon, garlic, and herbs, then perfectly grilled to deliver a flavorful and healthy meal ideal for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Marinade
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 large lemons (zested and juiced)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
Garnish
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a medium bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, dried oregano, and paprika. Stir well to fully integrate all the ingredients for a balanced marinade.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Ensure each chicken piece is thoroughly coated. Seal or cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, ideally 2 to 4 hours or overnight for maximum flavor infusion.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill or grill pan to medium-high. Lightly brush the grill grates with olive oil to prevent the chicken from sticking during cooking.
- Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing excess to drip off. Place the breasts on the preheated grill, cooking each side for 6 to 7 minutes or until grill marks form and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Rest the Chicken: Transfer the grilled chicken to a plate and let it rest for a few minutes. This step helps the juices redistribute inside the meat, enhancing tenderness and juiciness.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the chicken and serve with lemon wedges alongside for an extra citrus punch that complements the grilled flavors beautifully.
Notes
- For the best flavor, marinate the chicken overnight if possible.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- To avoid flare-ups, trim excess fat from chicken breasts before grilling.
- If you don’t have a grill, a grill pan or broiler can be used as alternatives.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
