This recipe for Garlic, Lemon, and Herb Grilled Chicken Breasts is perfect for summer grilling! Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or looking for a quick weeknight dinner, this dish delivers bright flavors and juicy chicken every time. The combination of garlic and lemon not only enhances the taste but also tenderizes the meat, making it a standout choice for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With just 25 minutes of prep time, this dish fits easily into your busy schedule.
- Flavor Explosion: The blend of garlic, lemon, and herbs creates a mouthwatering marinade that infuses the chicken with flavor.
- Great for Meal Prep: Leftovers can be enjoyed in salads or wraps, making it a versatile recipe for lunches throughout the week.
- Healthy Option: This grilled chicken recipe is low in carbs and high in protein, perfect for those following healthy eating plans.
- Kid-Friendly: The mild flavors make it appealing to both kids and adults, ensuring everyone at the table will enjoy it.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, it’s essential to gather your tools. Proper equipment helps ensure that your Garlic, Lemon, and Herb Grilled Chicken Breasts turn out perfectly cooked every time.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Grill
- Ziploc bag or plastic container
- Whisk
- Colander
- Meat thermometer
Importance of Each Tool
- Grill: The primary tool for cooking chicken; it adds delicious char marks and smoky flavor.
- Ziploc bag or plastic container: Essential for marinating the chicken evenly without mess.
- Whisk: Helps combine marinade ingredients smoothly for optimal flavor infusion.
- Meat thermometer: Ensures chicken is cooked to the safe temperature of 165F/74C.
Ingredients
For this flavorful dish, you will need the following ingredients:
- 6 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 3 tablespoons fresh-squeezed lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons Spike Seasoning (or another all-purpose seasoning blend)
- 2 teaspoons dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried sage
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
How to Make Garlic, Lemon, and Herb Grilled Chicken Breasts
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Breasts
Trim any visible fat from the chicken breasts. If some are thicker than others, trim them to even thickness. Save scraps in the freezer for homemade chicken stock.
Step 2: Score the Chicken
Cut short shallow slits crosswise down each chicken breast to help absorb the marinade better.
Step 3: Make the Marinade
In a bowl, whisk together:
* Olive oil
* Fresh-squeezed lemon juice
* Garlic powder
* Spike Seasoning (or your chosen seasoning blend)
* Dried basil
* Dried oregano
* Onion powder
* Dried sage
* Black pepper
Step 4: Marinate the Chicken
Place the chicken in a single layer in a Ziploc bag or plastic container. Pour in the marinade and seal it tightly. Marinate in the fridge for at least 5-6 hours or up to 8 hours if possible.
Step 5: Preheat the Grill
Ensure your grill is clean. Spray with non-stick grill spray or brush with oil. Preheat to medium-high heat.
Step 6: Cook on One Side
Lay each chicken breast top side down on an angle to the grill grates. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until nice grill marks appear.
Step 7: Rotate Chicken Breasts
Once you see good grill marks, rotate each breast at an opposite angle on the grill grates. Cook for another 3-4 minutes.
Step 8: Flip Chicken Breasts
When you have criss-cross grill marks on one side, flip each piece over and cook for another 4-6 minutes on this side.
Step 9: Check Doneness
The actual cooking time may vary based on thickness and grill heat. Press down gently; it should feel firm but not hard. Use a meat thermometer to check that internal temperature reaches 165F/74C.
Step 10: Serve Hot
Enjoy your delicious grilled chicken hot off the grill!
This Garlic, Lemon, and Herb Grilled Chicken Breasts recipe is sure to become a favorite during your summer grilling sessions!
How to Serve Garlic, Lemon, and Herb Grilled Chicken Breasts
Garlic, Lemon, and Herb Grilled Chicken Breasts are versatile and can be served in various ways to suit any occasion. Here are some delicious serving suggestions that will elevate your meal experience.
Salad Topping
- Add sliced grilled chicken breasts on top of a fresh garden salad. The citrusy flavors complement greens beautifully.
Lettuce Wraps
- Use leaves of romaine or butter lettuce to wrap pieces of chicken with avocado and salsa for a refreshing low-carb meal.
Pita Sandwiches
- Place the grilled chicken inside low-carb pita bread with tzatziki sauce for a quick and satisfying lunch option.
Pasta Dish
- Toss chunks of the grilled chicken with pasta, olive oil, and seasonal vegetables for a hearty dinner.
Grain Bowl
- Layer quinoa or brown rice with grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, and a drizzle of lemon vinaigrette for a nutritious bowl.
Charcuterie Board
- Include slices of the grilled chicken on a charcuterie board alongside cheeses, olives, and nuts for an elegant appetizer option.
How to Perfect Garlic, Lemon, and Herb Grilled Chicken Breasts
To ensure your Garlic, Lemon, and Herb Grilled Chicken Breasts come out perfect every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and lemon juice enhance the flavor significantly compared to dried alternatives.
- Marinate Longer: For deeper flavor penetration, marinate the chicken for at least 8 hours.
- Uniform Thickness: Ensure all chicken breasts are similar in thickness for even cooking.
- Preheat the Grill: A properly heated grill prevents sticking and ensures good grill marks on your chicken.
- Check Temperature: Use an Instant-Read Meat Thermometer to confirm the chicken reaches 165F/74C for safe consumption.
Best Side Dishes for Garlic, Lemon, and Herb Grilled Chicken Breasts
Pairing delicious sides with your Garlic, Lemon, and Herb Grilled Chicken Breasts can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some fantastic options to complement your dish.
- Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like zucchini and bell peppers brushed with olive oil provide vibrant color and taste.
- Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice cooked with herbs complements the citrus notes in the chicken.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and contrasts beautifully with the tender chicken.
- Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with garlic work wonderfully alongside grilled chicken.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn grilled until charred makes for a classic summer side dish.
- Garlic Bread: Warm garlic bread enhances the meal’s flavor profile while providing a delightful texture contrast.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Marinating chicken can be simple, but there are common pitfalls. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for:
- Skipping the marinade time: Not allowing enough time for the chicken to soak in the flavors can lead to bland results. Aim for at least 5-6 hours; overnight is even better.
- Using a dirty grill: Grilling on a dirty surface can cause sticking and flare-ups. Always clean your grill before cooking for the best outcome.
- Overcrowding the grill: Placing too many chicken breasts on the grill at once can lower the temperature and result in uneven cooking. Grill in batches if necessary.
- Ignoring internal temperature: Cooking without checking the internal temperature may leave your chicken undercooked or overdone. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165F/74C.
- Not adjusting thickness: If your chicken breasts vary in thickness, they won’t cook evenly. Flatten thicker parts for consistent grilling results.
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Garlic, Lemon, and Herb Grilled Chicken Breasts in an airtight container.
- Refrigerate within two hours of cooking.
- Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.
Freezing Garlic, Lemon, and Herb Grilled Chicken Breasts
- Place cooled chicken in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- Label with the date; use within 3 months for best flavor.
- Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating Garlic, Lemon, and Herb Grilled Chicken Breasts
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Wrap chicken in foil and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate and cover loosely. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
- Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a little oil. Cook for about 5 minutes each side until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just make sure to thaw them completely before marinating and grilling.
What can I serve with Garlic, Lemon, and Herb Grilled Chicken Breasts?
This dish pairs well with salads, grilled vegetables, or rice. You can also serve it in wraps or pita bread.
How long should I marinate Garlic, Lemon, and Herb Grilled Chicken Breasts?
Marinate for at least 5-6 hours but ideally overnight to maximize flavor absorption.
Can I customize the herbs used in this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap dried basil or oregano with your favorite herbs like thyme or rosemary for a different flavor profile.
How do I know when my grilled chicken is done?
The best way is to check that it reaches an internal temperature of 165F/74C using a meat thermometer.
Final Thoughts
Garlic, Lemon, and Herb Grilled Chicken Breasts is not just perfect for summer grilling; it’s versatile enough for year-round enjoyment. This recipe allows room for customization with different herbs or marinades based on your taste preferences. Don’t hesitate to try it out—you’ll love how easy it is to make delicious grilled chicken!
Garlic, Lemon, and Herb Grilled Chicken Breasts
Garlic, Lemon, and Herb Grilled Chicken Breasts are a delightful summer dish that combines zesty flavors with tender, juicy chicken. Perfect for barbecues or quick weeknight dinners, this recipe takes just 25 minutes to prep and is packed with a marinade that infuses the chicken with mouthwatering taste. The mix of garlic and lemon not only enhances flavor but also helps tenderize the meat, making it a family favorite. Serve the grilled chicken in salads, wraps, or alongside your favorite sides for a versatile meal that everyone will enjoy.
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
Ingredients
- 6 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 3 tablespoons fresh-squeezed lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons Spike Seasoning (or another all-purpose seasoning)
- 2 teaspoons dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried sage
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Trim chicken breasts to even thickness and score them lightly.
- In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, Spike Seasoning, basil, oregano, onion powder, sage, and black pepper.
- Place chicken in a Ziploc bag or container; pour marinade over it. Seal and refrigerate for at least 5 hours (ideally overnight).
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Clean and oil grill grates.
- Grill chicken for about 3-4 minutes per side until grill marks appear and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Serve hot with your choice of sides.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg