Lemon Garlic Herb Grilled Chicken

 

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• Zest of 1 lemon
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried thyme, dried rosemary, lemon zest, and lemon juice. This flavorful marinade will infuse the chicken with a burst of citrusy and herby goodness.

2. Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to penetrate the chicken.

3. Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using a charcoal grill, wait until the coals are ashed over, providing an even and consistent heat.

4. Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess drip off. Season both sides with salt and black pepper. Place the chicken on the preheated grill and cook for approximately 6-8 minutes per side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the chicken is cooked through with beautiful grill marks.

5. Baste with Reserved Marinade: While grilling, baste the chicken with some of the reserved marinade to enhance the flavor and keep the chicken moist. Be sure not to use the marinade that the raw chicken was in; set aside a portion before marinating for basting.

6. Rest and Garnish: Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute. Optionally, garnish with fresh parsley for a burst of color and added freshness.

7. Serve and Enjoy: Slice the grilled chicken against the grain into strips or serve it whole. Pair it with your favorite sides, such as a crisp salad, grilled vegetables, or rice. The lemon garlic herb flavors will elevate your grilled chicken to a delicious and satisfying dish.

This Lemon Garlic Herb Grilled Chicken recipe is a delightful choice for a quick and flavorful meal. The combination of zesty lemon, aromatic herbs, and the smoky goodness from the grill creates a dish that's perfect for a casual weeknight dinner or a weekend barbecue with family and friends.