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Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken

A quick, healthy, and flavorful grilled chicken recipe that's ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Healthy, Mediterranean
Calories: 285
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts (6-8 oz each) or substitute with chicken thighs for extra juiciness
  • 3 large lemons (juiced and zested) Meyer lemons add sweeter notes if available
  • 4 cloves fresh garlic (minced) garlic powder works as substitute (1 tsp)
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil avocado oil offers similar benefits
  • 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary (chopped) dried rosemary works (1 tablespoon)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh thyme (chopped) dried thyme substitute (1 tablespoon)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh oregano dried oregano works (1 teaspoon)
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt kosher salt substitutes perfectly
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground)
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika adds beautiful color and mild smoky flavor

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Pat chicken breasts completely dry with paper towels. Place between plastic wrap or parchment paper and gently pound to even 3/4-inch thickness.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, olive oil, rosemary, thyme, oregano, salt, pepper, and paprika.
  3. Add prepared chicken breasts to the marinade, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated. Massage marinade into the meat for 30 seconds per breast.
  4. Let rest for 5 minutes while preheating your grill or grill pan.
Cooking
  1. Heat outdoor grill to medium-high heat (400-450°F) or place grill pan over medium-high stovetop heat.
  2. Place marinated chicken on hot grill. Cook undisturbed for 6-7 minutes to develop golden-brown grill marks.
  3. Flip once and continue cooking 5-6 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
  4. Transfer grilled chicken to a clean cutting board and tent with foil. Rest for 3-5 minutes before slicing.
Serving
  1. Slice against the grain and serve immediately with fresh lemon wedges.

Notes

Avoid common mistakes like skipping the pounding step, insufficient preheating, and over-marinating for best results.