Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken

Recipe By:

Natalia

Posted:

June 4, 2025

Updated:

June 4, 2025

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This Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken recipe is a delightful blend of flavors that will elevate your meals for any occasion. Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a summer barbecue, this dish will impress your guests with its juicy, charred perfection. The marinade, packed with fresh herbs and zesty lemon, not only enhances the chicken but can also be used for grilling beef and seafood. It’s simple to prepare, making it a go-to choice for quick weeknight dinners or special gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can easily whip up this flavorful dish.
Versatile Marinade: This marinade works well not just for chicken but also for beef and seafood.
Fresh Ingredients: The use of fresh herbs adds brightness and depth to your grilled chicken.
Perfectly Juicy: Marinating allows the chicken to stay moist and tender while grilling.
Crowd-Pleaser: The vibrant flavors will appeal to everyone at your table.

Tools and Preparation

Before getting started, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience. Having the right equipment makes preparation easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Grill
Mixing bowl
Meat mallet
Resealable plastic bag
Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

Grill: Provides the high heat needed for perfect charring and flavor development.
Mixing bowl: A stable space to combine your marinade ingredients efficiently.
Meat mallet: Ensures even cooking by flattening chicken breasts to a uniform thickness.

Ingredients

This Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken is juicy and beautifully charred. The easy marinade is perfect for not only chicken but beef and seafood too.

For the Chicken

1 1/2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 4 breasts, trimmed of excess fat)

For the Marinade

1/4 cup lemon juice
1/4 cup white apple vinegar (red apple vinegar can also be used)
5 cloves garlic (minced)
2 Tbsp chopped fresh basil
2 Tbsp chopped fresh mint
2 Tbsp chopped fresh parsley
1 1/2 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp kosher salt
1/4 – 1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 cup olive oil

For Garnish

2 lemons (one sliced, one cut into wedges (optional))
Additional fresh parsley (for garnish (optional))

How to Make Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken

Step 1: Prepare Chicken

Top a cutting board with wax paper and place a chicken breast on top.
Cover with another piece of wax paper and pound the chicken to about 1 inch thick using the flat side of a meat mallet. If your chicken breasts are thinner, this step may not be necessary.
Repeat with the remaining chicken breasts.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Fold down the top of a large resealable plastic bag and place it inside a mixing bowl for stability.
Add lemon juice, vinegar, garlic, basil, mint, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper into the bag. Whisk these ingredients together until combined.
Pour in olive oil while whisking until fully incorporated.
Add the prepared chicken breasts to the marinade in the bag. Seal it tightly and massage the marinade into each piece of chicken.
Place the bag on a plate or small rimmed baking sheet in case of leaks before refrigerating.
Chill and marinate for at least 1 hour or up to 8 hours for optimal flavor.

Step 3: Grill the Chicken

Preheat your grill over medium to medium-high heat.
Brush the grill grates lightly with vegetable oil to prevent sticking.
Grill each chicken breast for about 5-6 minutes per side until beautifully charred and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
If you’re using sliced lemons, add them to the grill during cooking for an extra burst of flavor.
Once cooked, let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes so juices can redistribute.

Step 4: Serve

Top your grilled chicken with a squeeze of lemon juice and some minced fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy your deliciously flavorful Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken!

How to Serve Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken

Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken is not only a delicious main dish but also incredibly versatile. Here are some creative serving suggestions that will elevate your meal.

On a Salad

Mixed Greens: Serve sliced chicken on a bed of mixed greens with cherry tomatoes and cucumber for a refreshing salad.
Caesar Salad: Add grilled chicken to a classic Caesar for extra protein and flavor.

In Tacos

Chicken Tacos: Shred the grilled chicken and serve in corn tortillas with avocado, lime, and cilantro for a fun twist.
Burrito Bowls: Combine diced chicken with rice, beans, and toppings like salsa and sour cream for a hearty meal.

With Pasta

Pasta Primavera: Toss lemon herb grilled chicken with sautéed vegetables and pasta for a colorful dish.
Creamy Alfredo: Pair it with fettuccine alfredo for a rich and satisfying dinner option.

As Sandwiches

Grilled Chicken Sandwich: Layer sliced chicken on toasted bread with lettuce, tomato, and your favorite sauce.
Wraps: Roll up the chicken in a tortilla with spinach and hummus for a quick lunch.

How to Perfect Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken

Achieving the perfect Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken requires attention to detail. Follow these tips for juicy, flavorful results.

Bold Marinade: Always marinate the chicken for at least one hour. This enhances the flavors deeply.
Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs like basil, mint, and parsley provide vibrant taste that dried herbs cannot replicate.
Preheat Your Grill: Ensure your grill is hot before cooking. This helps create those beautiful grill marks and seals in juices.
Check Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safety and juiciness.
Let It Rest: Allow the chicken to rest after grilling. This lets the juices redistribute, making each bite tender.
Experiment with Citrus: Feel free to add orange or lime juice into your marinade for an exciting flavor twist.

Best Side Dishes for Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken

To complement your Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken, consider these delightful side dishes that balance flavors perfectly.

Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes infused with garlic make an excellent base for grilled chicken.
Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized adds color and nutrition to your plate.
Quinoa Salad: This light salad offers protein and can be tossed with fresh veggies and lemon vinaigrette for added zing.
Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus grilled alongside the chicken enhances the meal’s freshness.
Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and balances the richness of the marinated chicken.
Couscous Pilaf: Fluffy couscous mixed with herbs provides an aromatic side that pairs well with grilled flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken, it’s easy to overlook some crucial steps. Here are common mistakes to avoid:

Skipping the marinade time: Not allowing enough time for the chicken to marinate can result in bland flavor. Aim for at least 1 hour but up to 8 hours for the best taste.
Not pounding the chicken: If you skip pounding the chicken breasts, they may cook unevenly. Pounding ensures even thickness, leading to juicier results.
Ignoring grill temperature: Cooking on a grill that is not preheated or too hot can lead to undercooked or burnt chicken. Aim for medium to medium-high heat for perfect grilling.
Cutting into the chicken too soon: Cutting into your chicken right after grilling lets juices escape, making it dry. Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
Using old herbs: Fresh herbs create a vibrant flavor profile in the marinade. Using dried-out herbs will lead to a less flavorful dish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftover Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken in an airtight container.
It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken

Place cooled grilled chicken in a freezer-safe bag or container.
It should be frozen within 2 hours of cooking and can last up to 3 months.

Reheating Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken

Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate. Heat on medium power for about 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.
Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a splash of water or broth. Add chicken and cover, cooking for about 5-7 minutes until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other proteins for this marinade?

Yes! The Lemon Herb Marinade works well with beef and seafood too, enhancing their natural flavors.

How do I know when the chicken is done?

Use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.

What can I serve with Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken?

This dish pairs beautifully with sides like roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken earlier in the day or even overnight for maximum flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken recipe is not only juicy and flavorful but also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or meal prepping for the week, it’s sure to impress. Feel free to customize the herbs based on your preference or try adding spices for extra kick! Enjoy this delicious recipe today!