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Unlock the secret to juicy, flavorful chicken with this Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Breast recipe a go-to for effortless summer cooking that makes you feel like a true chef, no matter your grill skills. Think of those long summer evenings, laughter in the air, and the sizzling aroma of citrus and herbs filling your backyard. That’s the magic waiting for you in every bite. There’s nothing quite as satisfying as serving up a meal that wows your family and friends while keeping things refreshingly light and simple.
PrintThe Best Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Breast Recipe
Delicious and juicy grilled lemon herb chicken breasts marinated in a flavorful blend of olive oil, lemon juice, dried basil, parsley, and spices. Perfect for a healthy and easy meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
2 pounds chicken breasts, trimmed ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil ¼ cup lemon juice 1 tablespoon dried basil 1 tablespoon dried parsley 1 teaspoon salt ½ teaspoon black pepper ½ teaspoon garlic powder ½ teaspoon onion powder ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
Instructions
Place chicken breasts in a gallon Ziploc bag with all marinade ingredients. Seal and refrigerate for 1 to 12 hours. Preheat grill to medium heat. Remove chicken from marinade and grill for 5-7 minutes per side until juices run clear. Alternatively, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken 5 minutes per side until firm and cooked through. Adjust cooking time if using bone-in chicken.
Notes
Marinating for 12 hours enhances flavor. Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F for safety.
Table of Ingredients for Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Breast
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Chicken breasts, trimmed | 2 pounds |
| Olive oil, extra virgin | ¼ cup |
| Lemon juice | ¼ cup |
| Dried basil | 1 tablespoon |
| Dried parsley | 1 tablespoon |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Black pepper | ½ teaspoon |
| Garlic powder | ½ teaspoon |
| Onion powder | ½ teaspoon |
| Crushed red pepper flakes | ¼ teaspoon |
How to Make Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Breast
Marinating your chicken is the key to juicy, tender results bursting with flavor.
Marinate the Chicken
- Place chicken breasts in a gallon-size Ziploc bag.
- Add olive oil, lemon juice, dried basil, parsley, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and crushed red pepper flakes.
- Seal, removing as much air as possible, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (up to 12 hours for richer flavor).
Grill or Pan-Sear
To Grill
- Preheat grill to medium heat.
- Remove chicken from marinade and grill for 5–7 minutes per side, until the juices run clear and the chicken is golden brown. Cooking time may be longer if using bone-in cuts.
On the Stove
- Add 2 tablespoons olive oil to a skillet and heat over medium-high.
- Place marinated chicken in the skillet, cooking 5 minutes per side, until firm and juices are clear. Bone-in chicken may need extra time.
Expert Tips for Perfect Results
- Letting your chicken marinate for a full 12 hours will lock in even more flavor.
- Always check chicken doneness with a thermometer 165°F is your target.
- For extra zest, grate a little lemon zest into the marinade.
Serving Suggestions for Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Breast
Pair your chicken with light, bright sides for a complete meal:
- Greek salad with crisp veggies and feta
- Grilled seasonal vegetables (zucchini, asparagus, bell peppers)
- Herb-roasted potatoes or wild rice pilaf
Frequently Asked Questions About Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Breast
What makes Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Breast so flavorful?
The combination of extra virgin olive oil, fresh lemon, and a medley of dried herbs infuses the chicken with a balance of brightness and savory depth, especially when you allow plenty of time to marinate.
Can you use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely. Both boneless and bone-in chicken thighs are delicious with this marinade just adjust cooking time to ensure the juices run clear.
How long should you marinate chicken?
For best results, marinate for at least one hour. For deeper flavor, marinate up to twelve hours.
Is this recipe healthy?
Yes, grilled chicken breast is packed with lean protein and the marinade uses heart-healthy olive oil and fresh herbs, making it a wholesome meal choice.
Conclusion
You’re just a few simple steps away from mastering Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Breast at home. Let marination do the magic, fire up the grill or stovetop, and serve this vibrant, protein-packed dish with your favorite sides. Embrace the zest and savor every bite you’ll be known for your chicken all summer long!