Lemon-garlic grilled chicken breasts

Lemon-garlic grilled chicken breasts combine zesty lemon and aromatic garlic to create a flavorful and healthy dish. This simple recipe is perfect for grilling, ensuring juicy and tender chicken every time.

30 Nov 2025
Cook time 15 min
Prep time 35 min

Ingredients:

3 tbsp lemon juice
2 tbsp olive oil
2 garlic cloves
7 chicken breasts
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 short spray cooking spray oil
Lemon-garlic grilled chicken breasts

Lemon-garlic grilled chicken breasts are a delicious and healthy meal option that can be enjoyed by the whole family. The combination of zesty lemon, aromatic garlic, and succulent chicken creates a flavorful dish that's perfect for any occasion. This recipe is simple and straightforward, making it ideal for both novice and seasoned cooks alike.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Marinade:
- In a medium-sized bowl, combine the lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to create the marinade.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
- Place the chicken breasts in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish.
- Pour the marinade over the chicken breasts, ensuring each breast is well-coated.
- Seal the bag (if using) or cover the dish, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. For best results, marinate for 2-4 hours.
3. Preheat the Grill:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using a charcoal grill, make sure the coals are evenly distributed and covered with a light layer of ash.
4. Prepare the Grill Grates:
- Just before grilling, lightly spray the grates with cooking spray oil to prevent sticking.
5. Grill the Chicken:
- Remove the chicken breasts from the marinade and let any excess marinade drip off.
- Place the chicken breasts on the preheated grill.
- Grill for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the chicken is no longer pink in the center. Cooking times may vary based on the thickness of the chicken breasts.
6. Rest the Chicken:
- Once cooked, remove the chicken breasts from the grill and let them rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring moist and flavorful chicken.
7. Serve:
- Serve the lemon-garlic grilled chicken breasts hot. Pair with a side of your choice, such as roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or rice.

With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious and nutritious meal that's sure to impress. Lemon-garlic grilled chicken breasts are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend barbecue with friends and family. Follow the tips provided to achieve perfectly grilled chicken every time, and enjoy the bright, fresh flavors of this delightful dish.

Lemon-garlic grilled chicken breasts FAQ:

How long should I marinate the chicken for optimal flavor?

For best results, marinate the chicken breasts for 2-4 hours. However, you can marinate them for at least 30 minutes if you're short on time.

What is the best way to tell if the chicken is done cooking?

The chicken is done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the meat is no longer pink in the center. Using a meat thermometer is the most accurate way to check doneness.

Can I substitute lemon juice with another acid?

Yes, you can use lime juice or vinegar as alternatives to lemon juice. Each will impart a different flavor but will still work well in the marinade.

How should I store leftover grilled chicken?

Store leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage, up to 4 months.

What if my chicken breasts are very thick?

If your chicken breasts are thick, they may require additional grilling time. Consider flattening them slightly for more even cooking and check the internal temperature to ensure they reach 165°F (74°C).

Tips:

- Marinate the chicken breasts for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.

- Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness to ensure they cook uniformly.

- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat for best results.

- Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) to ensure it's fully cooked.

- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling to allow the juices to redistribute.

Nutrition per serving

7 Servings
Calories 140kcal
Protein 27g
Carbohydrates 0.79g
Fiber 0.08g
Sugar 0.17g
Fat 7g

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