Grilled Lemon Chicken

This grilled lemon chicken has become my go-to summer dinner recipe for its bright Mediterranean flavors and foolproof results. The marinade infuses the chicken with zesty lemon and aromatic herbs for a dish that feels both special and simple enough for weeknight cooking.

I first made this during a spontaneous backyard gathering when we wanted something light yet satisfying. Since then, it's become our signature summer dish that even my pickiest eaters request regularly.

Ingredients

• Boneless skinless chicken breasts: Choose uniform sized pieces for even cooking or pound them to even thickness
• Olive oil: Use a good quality extra virgin for best flavor as it forms the base of the marinade
• Fresh lemon juice and zest: The acidity tenderizes the chicken while adding bright flavor
• Dried oregano: Provides classic Mediterranean herbaceous notes that stand up to grilling
• Fresh garlic cloves: Adds aromatic depth that mellows beautifully when cooked
• Salt and pepper: Enhances all other flavors and ensures the chicken isn't bland
• Fresh parsley or cilantro: Adds color and a fresh herbaceous finish
• Extra lemon wedges: For serving to add brightness at the table

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the chicken:

Pat chicken breasts completely dry with paper towels to ensure better marinade absorption. Using a meat mallet, gently pound any thicker parts to create uniform thickness around 3/4 inch for even cooking.

Create the marinade:

In a medium bowl, combine olive oil, freshly squeezed lemon juice, lemon zest, oregano, pressed garlic, salt and pepper. Whisk thoroughly until well blended. The mixture should look slightly emulsified and fragrant.

Marinate the chicken:

Add chicken breasts to the marinade, turning several times to coat completely. For best results, transfer everything to a ziplock bag or covered container and refrigerate. Allow to marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor penetration.

Preheat your cooking surface:

Heat your grill or grill pan to medium high heat. For outdoor grills, clean and oil the grates to prevent sticking. For indoor cooking, a cast iron grill pan works beautifully and creates those coveted grill marks.

Grill to perfection:

Place marinated chicken on the hot grill surface, allowing excess marinade to drip off first. Cook undisturbed for 5 to 7 minutes until grill marks form and the chicken releases easily. Flip once and cook another 5 to 7 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Rest and serve:

Remove chicken from heat and let rest for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve with lemon wedges for squeezing over top.

Pin it

The lemon zest is my secret weapon in this recipe. While many cooks use only juice, the oils in the zest contain concentrated flavor compounds that infuse the chicken with true lemon essence. My family always notices when I forget this crucial ingredient, as the flavor profile becomes noticeably less vibrant.

Make Ahead Options

This chicken marinade can be prepared up to 3 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. The acid from the lemon juice actually makes this recipe ideal for meal prep, as it begins tenderizing the chicken immediately. For busy weeknights, I often assemble everything in the morning before work, then come home to chicken that's ready to grill.

Perfect Pairings

The bright lemon flavor in this chicken pairs beautifully with Mediterranean sides. Try serving it with a simple Greek salad, roasted vegetables, or alongside fluffy couscous. For a complete meal, I love slicing the chicken and serving it in warm pita bread with tzatziki sauce and fresh vegetables. The versatility of this recipe means it works equally well for casual family dinners or elegant entertaining.

Temperature Guide

Achieving perfectly cooked chicken requires attention to internal temperature rather than just cooking time. For boneless chicken breasts, the safe internal temperature is 165°F, but I recommend pulling them from the heat at 160°F and allowing carryover cooking to reach the final temperature. This prevents overcooking and keeps the meat juicy. An instant read thermometer inserted into the thickest part will ensure perfect results every time.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How long should the chicken marinate?

The chicken should marinate for at least 30 minutes, but you can leave it for longer to enhance the flavor.

→ What type of grill works best?

A standard outdoor grill or a grill pan works perfectly to cook the chicken evenly and add nice char marks.

→ Can this be made with chicken thighs?

Yes, chicken thighs are an excellent alternative. Adjust the cooking time as they may take slightly longer.

→ How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?

Ensure not to overcook the chicken. Grill each side for about 5-7 minutes until the juices run clear.

→ What are good side dishes for this dish?

Pair it with grilled vegetables, a fresh salad, or a side of rice for a complete meal.