Oh, the allure of a perfectly grilled chicken—the sizzle, the aroma, the anticipation. Lately, I’ve found myself drawn to the vibrant dance of lemon and herbs, a combo that’s like a summer breeze captured on your plate, utterly irresistible! If you’ve ever had one of those days where the sun seems to linger just a bit longer and you crave something fresh yet comforting, this lemon herb grilled chicken might just be your new muse.
Steps
- Combine all the marinade ingredients in a gallon-sized Ziploc bag, including olive oil, lemon juice, dried basil, parsley, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and crushed red pepper flakes. Add chicken breasts or thighs, seal the bag, and eliminate any excess air.
- Marinate the chicken for a minimum of one hour, and up to 12 hours, to enhance the flavor. The longer the marination, the more pronounced the lemon flavor will be.
- To grill the chicken, take it out of the marinade and place it on a preheated grill set to medium heat. Cook each side for 5 to 7 minutes until the chicken is golden brown and the juices run clear.
- If using a stovetop, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the marinated chicken in a single layer. Sauté for about 5 minutes on each side until firm and juices run clear.
- Serve the chicken with lemon slices and fresh herbs like basil or parsley for garnish. Pair with sides like grilled vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or chicken thighs, if preferred)
- ¼ cup of extra virgin olive oil
- ¼ cup of lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon of dried basil
- 1 tablespoon of dried parsley
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- ½ teaspoon of black pepper
- ½ teaspoon of garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon of onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes
Nutritional Values
Calories: 1552kcal | Carbohydrates: 8g | Protein: 196g | Fat: 80g | Saturated Fat: 12g | Cholesterol: 580mg | Sodium: 3400mg | Potassium: 3580mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 420IU | Vitamin C: 36mg | Calcium: 156mg | Iron: 8mg
FAQ
- How long should I marinate the chicken for optimal flavor?
- It’s best to marinate the chicken for at least one hour and up to 12 hours. The longer you marinate, the more intense the flavor will be. However, avoid marinating for more than 12 hours as it can alter the texture of the chicken.
- What can I do to prevent the chicken from sticking to the grill?
- The olive oil in the marinade helps prevent sticking. If you have persistent sticking issues, you can add a bit more olive oil directly to the grill grates or use a grill spray. If the chicken sticks when you try to flip it, give it another minute; it should release more easily then.
- Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe, and how does it affect cooking time?
- Yes, you can use bone-in chicken thighs or breasts. Keep in mind that bone-in chicken may require additional cooking time to ensure it is fully cooked.
- How should I store leftovers and for how long can they be kept?
- Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat using a microwave or in a skillet on the stovetop over low to medium-low heat until warmed through.
- What side dishes pair well with Lemon Herb Marinated Grilled Chicken?
- Some great side dishes include Grilled Zucchini & Squash, Garlic Green Beans, or Spicy Roasted Broccoli. The chicken also makes a wonderful addition to salads like Blueberry Citrus Spinach Salad or Strawberry Goat Cheese Salad.
Tips
- Marinate for Maximum Flavor: For the best taste, let the chicken marinate for at least an hour and up to 12 hours. This allows the lemon and herbs to deeply infuse the chicken, but avoid marinating for longer than 12 hours to prevent the texture from breaking down.
- Prevent Sticking on the Grill: To minimize sticking, ensure your grill grates are well-oiled. You can add a bit more olive oil directly to the grates or use a grill spray. If the chicken sticks when you try to flip it, wait an extra minute, and it should release more easily.
- Enhance Flavor with Lemon Zest: If you’re using fresh lemon juice, consider adding lemon zest to the marinade for an even more intense lemon flavor. This small addition can make a big difference in the overall taste.
- Proper Storage for Leftovers: Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop to maintain the chicken’s tenderness and flavor.
Equipment
- Grill: If you prefer to grill the chicken and don’t have a grill at home.
- Grill Spray or Grill Brush: To prevent the chicken from sticking to the grill.
- Ziploc Bags (1-gallon size): For marinating the chicken.
- Meat Thermometer: To ensure the chicken is cooked to the proper temperature.
- Skillet: If you choose to sauté instead of grill and don’t have a suitable one.