Introduction
Are you looking for a tasty and healthy meal that’s easy to make? Then you must try Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken! It’s juicy, full of flavor, and perfect for lunch or dinner. The fresh lemon gives it a zesty taste, while the herbs make it smell and taste amazing.
This recipe is great for beginners. You don’t need any fancy tools or hard-to-find ingredients. Just a few simple things from your kitchen, and you’re ready to go! Whether you want something for a family dinner, a picnic, or a summer BBQ, this dish will make everyone happy. So, let’s get started!
Ingredients – Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken
Here are the simple ingredients you need to make Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken:
- 4 boneless chicken breasts (or thighs, if you prefer)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (from about 1 lemon)
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Step by Step Process – Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken
Follow these easy steps to make the perfect grilled chicken:
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
In a small bowl, mix these ingredients:
- Olive oil
- Lemon juice
- Lemon zest
- Minced garlic
- Oregano
- Thyme
- Basil
- Salt and pepper
Stir everything well until it looks like a thick dressing.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
- Put the chicken in a large bowl or zip-lock bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken. Make sure each piece is coated well.
- Cover the bowl or seal the bag. Place it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. For better flavor, marinate for 2–4 hours.
Step 3: Preheat the Grill
If you’re using an outdoor grill, heat it to medium-high. If you’re using a grill pan on the stove, let it get hot before cooking.
Step 4: Grill the Chicken
- Take the chicken out of the marinade. Let the extra marinade drip off.
- Place the chicken on the hot grill. Cook for about 6–7 minutes per side, or until the inside is no longer pink. You can also use a meat thermometer — the inside should reach 165°F (74°C).
Step 5: Rest and Serve
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill. Let it rest for 5 minutes. This keeps it juicy.
- Serve with your favorite sides like rice, salad, grilled veggies, or mashed potatoes!
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount (Per Serving) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 230 kcal |
| Protein | 28 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 2 grams |
| Fat | 12 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 2 grams |
| Fiber | 0.5 grams |
| Sugar | 0 grams |
| Sodium | 250 mg |
| Cholesterol | 75 mg |
| Vitamin C | 8% of Daily Value |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! Chicken thighs are juicier and work great. Just make sure to cook them fully.
Q2: What if I don’t have a grill?
No problem! You can use a grill pan or even bake the chicken in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 25 minutes.
Q3: Can I make it ahead of time?
Absolutely. You can marinate the chicken overnight and grill it the next day.
Q4: Can I freeze the marinated chicken?
Yes! Place the chicken and marinade in a freezer bag and freeze it. When you’re ready, thaw in the fridge and cook.
Q5: What can I serve with lemon herb grilled chicken?
It pairs well with:
- Roasted veggies
- Brown rice
- Pasta
- Fresh salad
- Baked potatoes
Final Thoughts
Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken is a simple, tasty, and healthy meal that anyone can make. With just a few basic ingredients, you can cook something that tastes like it came from a restaurant!
It’s perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or even special occasions. Plus, it’s kid-friendly and goes well with many side dishes. So next time you’re wondering what to cook, give this recipe a try. It’s fresh, flavorful, and sure to become a family favorite. Happy cooking!
