These grilled chicken breasts are bursting with lemony goodness and garlic flavor! Super simple to make, they’re perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a backyard BBQ.
I love how juicy and tender these chicken breasts turn out. Plus, who can resist that delicious aroma wafting from the grill? I usually serve it with a side of veggies for a fresh touch!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this recipe as they cook quickly and remain juicy. If you prefer dark meat, thighs can be a tasty option, but they may require a slight adjustment in cooking time.
Olive Oil: This adds richness to the marinade. If you don’t have olive oil, avocado oil or vegetable oil work too. They have a higher smoke point, which is great for grilling!
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens the dish. If you need a substitute, bottled lemon juice is fine, but the taste won’t be as vibrant. You can also use lime juice for a different twist!
Garlic: Fresh garlic is key for flavor. In a pinch, garlic powder can be used. Start with about 1 teaspoon to get a nice garlic taste without overpowering the dish.
Oregano: Dried oregano lends a Mediterranean flavor. If you’re out, try dried basil or thyme instead. They bring a different flavor profile but still complement the chicken nicely.
How Can I Ensure My Chicken Stays Juicy on the Grill?
To keep your chicken breasts juicy, marinating is essential. This not only flavors the chicken but also helps tenderize it.
- Let the chicken marinate for at least 1 hour, but longer (up to overnight) makes a big difference.
- Don’t skip the resting step! After grilling, let the chicken rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat moist.
When grilling, ensure your grill is preheated. Placing the chicken on a hot grill gives it nice sear marks while locking in moisture.
Grilled Chicken Breasts With Lemon Garlic
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 3 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced (for garnishing)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of preparation time, plus at least 1 hour for marinating the chicken. If you can marinate it overnight, that’s even better for flavor! The actual cooking time is around 12-14 minutes on the grill. Altogether, you may spend about 1 hour and 20 minutes to enjoy this tasty dish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. This mixture will be your flavorful marinade to soak the chicken in.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece is well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish with a lid or plastic wrap. Pop it into the refrigerator and let the chicken marinate for at least 1 hour. For the best results, let it sit overnight to really soak up the flavors.
3. Prepare the Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you’re using a grill pan on the stove, make sure to preheat it over medium-high heat as well. This ensures the chicken will cook evenly and get that nice char.
4. Grill the Chicken:
Once the grill is hot, take the chicken out of the marinade and discard the leftover marinade. Place the chicken breasts on the grill (or grill pan) and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side. You want to grill until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C), and the chicken is no longer pink in the center.
5. Grill the Lemon Slices:
In the last few minutes of grilling, add the lemon slices to the grill. This will caramelize them and bring out their sweetness, making a delicious garnish for your chicken.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
After grilling, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps it stay juicy. Garnish with the grilled lemon slices if you’d like, and serve warm. Enjoy your delicious grilled chicken with a burst of lemon and garlic flavor!
Can I Use Other Types of Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute chicken thighs for a more flavorful option, or even bone-in chicken breasts if that’s what you have on hand. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time; bone-in pieces may take longer to cook, so check the internal temperature to ensure they reach 165°F (75°C).
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Lemon Juice?
No problem! If you don’t have fresh lemon juice, bottled lemon juice can be an acceptable substitute. However, fresh juice enhances the flavor significantly, so try to use it if possible. If using bottled, use the same amount as specified in the recipe.
How to Store Leftover Grilled Chicken?
Store leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, it’s best to use the oven or a grill pan over medium heat to maintain texture and moisture. You can also slice it and add it to salads or wraps!
Can I Marinate the Chicken for Longer Than One Hour?
Yes, marinating the chicken for longer, up to 24 hours, enhances the flavor even more! Just be cautious not to marinate for too long, as the acidity in lemon juice can start to break down the meat, making it mushy. If marinating overnight, aim for around 12 hours for the best results.
