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Juicy Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken Breast

lemon herb grilled chicken breast - featured image

A quick and easy grilled chicken breast recipe marinated in fresh lemon juice, herbs, and garlic, delivering juicy, tender, and flavorful results perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz / 170 g each)
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) freshly squeezed lemon juice (from 2 medium lemons)
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp chopped fresh thyme
  • 1 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tsp kosher salt
  • 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, chopped thyme and rosemary, olive oil, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
  2. Place chicken breasts in a large zip-top bag or shallow dish. Pour marinade over chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated. Seal and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, preferably 1 to 2 hours.
  3. Preheat grill or grill pan over medium-high heat (about 10 minutes for gas grill, 5 minutes for grill pan).
  4. Lightly brush grill grates or pan with oil to prevent sticking.
  5. Remove chicken from marinade, letting excess drip off. Place chicken on grill and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, flipping only once, until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) or juices run clear.
  6. Transfer chicken to a plate and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing to allow juices to redistribute.

Notes

Pound chicken breasts to even thickness for uniform cooking. Marinate for at least 30 minutes but no longer than 2 hours to avoid mushy texture. Flip chicken only once during grilling. Rest chicken after cooking for juicier results. For smoky flavor, add wood chips to grill. Oven-baking option: bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, then broil 2-3 minutes for char.

Nutrition

Keywords: lemon herb grilled chicken, grilled chicken breast, easy chicken recipe, healthy chicken, weeknight dinner, lemon garlic chicken, juicy grilled chicken