Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken

 

Introduction:

Grilling season is here, and what better way to enjoy it than with a succulent and flavorful Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken recipe? This dish is all about marinating chicken in zesty lemon and aromatic herbs, resulting in tender and mouthwatering poultry with a smoky grilled finish. It's the perfect addition to your outdoor gatherings and will leave your taste buds craving more. Let's get started!

Ingredients:

For the Marinade:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For Garnish:

• Fresh lemon wedges
• Fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, and parsley), for garnish

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Marinade:

• In a mixing bowl, combine the fresh lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, chopped parsley, rosemary, and thyme.
• Season the marinade with salt and black pepper to your taste.

2. Marinate the Chicken:

• Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish.
• Pour the lemon herb marinade over the chicken.
• Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. For the best flavor, marinate for 2-4 hours, or even overnight.

3. Preheat the Grill:

• Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 375-400°F or 190-200°C).
• Clean and lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.

4. Grill the Chicken:

• Remove the marinated chicken from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes.
• Grill the chicken breasts for approximately 6-8 minutes on each side. The exact cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the chicken and the grill temperature. Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) at its thickest part.
• Grill until the chicken has grill marks and is cooked through but still juicy and tender.

5. Rest and Serve:

• Remove the grilled lemon herb chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes.
• Garnish with fresh lemon wedges and additional herbs for a vibrant presentation.

6. Serve:

• Slice the chicken breasts and serve hot. This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides, from a fresh garden salad to grilled vegetables or your favorite choice of grains.

Note:

Feel free to experiment with your favorite herbs and adjust the level of garlic, lemon, or salt to suit your preferences. The key to this recipe is the vibrant blend of citrus and herbs, so let your taste buds guide you to the perfect balance. Enjoy your Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken with friends and family at your next outdoor barbecue!