Garlic, Lemon, and Herb Grilled Chicken Breasts

This recipe for Garlic, Lemon, and Herb Grilled Chicken Breasts is perfect for summer grilling! The bright flavors of garlic and lemon combined with fresh herbs make this dish a standout. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or preparing a weekday meal, this grilled lemon garlic chicken will impress your guests and family alike. It’s easy to prepare and can be used in various dishes, ensuring you enjoy every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of garlic, lemon, and herbs creates an irresistible marinade that infuses the chicken with delicious taste.
• Simple Preparation: With just a few steps and minimal ingredients, you can have a gourmet meal ready in no time.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it hot off the grill, in salads, or as part of wraps; the possibilities are endless!
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This chicken is great for leftovers, making it an ideal choice for lunchboxes or quick dinners throughout the week.
• Healthy Option: Low in carbs and high in protein, this recipe fits well into many eating plans.

Tools and Preparation

To create these flavorful grilled chicken breasts, you’ll need some essential tools. These will help ensure that each step goes smoothly.

this recipe

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Ziploc bag or plastic container
• Whisk
• Colander
• Instant-Read Meat Thermometer

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: A good grill gives you those beautiful char marks while cooking the chicken evenly.
• Instant-Read Meat Thermometer: Ensures safety by checking that the chicken reaches 165F/74C perfectly every time.
• Whisk: Great for mixing your marinade thoroughly so every piece of chicken gets coated with flavor.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 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 use 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

Trim any visible fat from the chicken breasts. If some pieces are much thicker than others, trim them down to ensure even cooking. Save any scraps in the freezer for homemade chicken stock.

Step 2: Score the Chicken

Cut short shallow slits crosswise down each chicken breast. This helps the marinade penetrate better and enhances flavor.

Step 3: Make the Marinade

Whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, Spike Seasoning (or other all-purpose seasoning), dried basil, dried oregano, onion powder, dried sage, and black pepper. This marinade will be packed with flavor!

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 tightly. Let it marinate in the fridge for at least 5-6 hours but ideally 8 hours. Turn occasionally if you’re home.

Step 5: Prepare to Grill

When ready to cook, drain off the marinade using a colander. Make sure your grill is clean and preheated to medium-high heat. Spray with non-stick grill spray or brush lightly with oil.

Step 6: Grill the Chicken

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. Rotate each piece so it’s at an opposite angle to create criss-cross marks.

Step 7: Finish Cooking

After rotating for more grill marks on one side (another 3-4 minutes), flip each breast over. Cook for another 4-6 minutes on this side until firm but not hard when pressed down gently.

Step 8: Check Doneness

Use an Instant-Read Meat Thermometer to ensure each breast has reached an internal temperature of 165F/74C before removing from the grill.

Step 9: Serve Hot

Serve your Garlic, Lemon, and Herb Grilled Chicken Breasts hot off the grill! Enjoy them as they are or use them in salads or wraps for later meals.

How to Serve Garlic, Lemon, and Herb Grilled Chicken Breasts

Garlic, Lemon, and Herb Grilled Chicken Breasts are versatile and delicious! Whether you want a light meal or something more substantial, these chicken breasts can be paired with various sides or toppings to create a satisfying dish.

Salad Topper

• Garden Salad: Slice the grilled chicken and serve it over a mixed greens salad with your favorite dressing.
• Caesar Salad: Add strips of chicken on top of romaine lettuce, croutons, and Caesar dressing for a hearty meal.

Lettuce Wraps

• Avocado & Salsa: Use the grilled chicken in lettuce wraps filled with avocado slices and fresh salsa for a refreshing bite.
• Asian Flavors: Combine shredded chicken with hoisin sauce and julienned vegetables in lettuce leaves for an Asian twist.

Sandwiches

• Pita Bread Delight: Serve the chicken in low-carb pita bread with Tzatziki sauce and fresh veggies for a Mediterranean flavor.
• Grilled Chicken Sub: Layer sliced chicken in a sub roll with lettuce, tomatoes, and your choice of spread.

How to Perfect Garlic, Lemon, and Herb Grilled Chicken Breasts

Getting perfectly grilled chicken breasts can elevate your experience. Follow these tips to ensure they turn out juicy and flavorful every time!

• bold Marinate Properly: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 5-6 hours for optimal flavor infusion.
• bold Uniform Thickness: Trim the chicken to an even thickness to ensure even cooking; this prevents some parts from drying out while others remain undercooked.
• bold Preheat Your Grill: Make sure your grill is hot before adding the chicken. This helps achieve perfect grill marks and prevents sticking.
• bold Use a Meat Thermometer: Check internal temperature; aim for 165F/74C for safe consumption while ensuring juiciness.
• bold Rest Before Serving: Allow the grilled chicken to rest for a few minutes after cooking. This lets juices redistribute, keeping it moist.

Best Side Dishes for Garlic, Lemon, and Herb Grilled Chicken Breasts

Pairing sides with your Garlic, Lemon, and Herb Grilled Chicken Breasts can enhance your meal. Here are some delicious options that complement the flavors nicely.

1. Grilled Vegetables: Toss zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus in olive oil and seasonings before grilling alongside the chicken.
2. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with lemon vinaigrette pairs well with the citrus notes in the chicken.
3. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with garlic add texture and heartiness to your plate.
4. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf made with herbs is an excellent base for soaking up any juices from the grilled chicken.
5. Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw provides crunch and balances the savory elements of the dish.
6. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with garlic butter makes a delightful pairing for summer grilling.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking Garlic, Lemon, and Herb Grilled Chicken Breasts can be a delightful experience, but some common mistakes may lead to disappointing results.

• Not Marinating Long Enough: Skipping the marination or not allowing enough time can result in bland chicken. Aim for at least 5-6 hours for the best flavor infusion.
• Using a Dirty Grill: A dirty grill can affect the taste and texture of your chicken. Always clean the grill before cooking to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking.
• Overcooking the Chicken: Overcooked chicken can become dry and tough. Use an instant-read meat thermometer to check for doneness at 165F/74C.
• Skipping the Slits in Chicken: Not making shallow slits can prevent the marinade from penetrating fully. These cuts allow for better absorption of flavors.
• Ignoring Grill Temperature: Cooking on too high heat can char the outside while leaving the inside undercooked. Preheat your grill to medium-high for consistent cooking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container.
• Keep it in the fridge for up to 4 days to maintain freshness.

Freezing Garlic, Lemon, and Herb Grilled Chicken Breasts

• Wrap each chicken breast individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. Frozen chicken is best used within 3 months for optimal flavor.

Reheating Garlic, Lemon, and Herb Grilled Chicken Breasts

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken on a baking sheet covered with foil and heat for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Place pieces on a microwave-safe plate. Cover and reheat on medium power in 1-minute intervals until heated through.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of oil and warm the chicken for about 5 minutes on each side until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long should I marinate Garlic, Lemon, and Herb Grilled Chicken Breasts?

Marinating for at least 5-6 hours will enhance the flavors significantly; however, if you have more time, aim for up to 8 hours for even better results.

Can I use other herbs for this grilled chicken?

Yes! Feel free to customize by using fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary instead of dried basil and oregano. This allows you to explore different flavor profiles!

What are some good side dishes with Garlic, Lemon, and Herb Grilled Chicken Breasts?

Pair this dish with grilled vegetables, a fresh salad, or roasted potatoes. These sides complement the flavors beautifully!

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken ahead of time and grill it just before serving. It’s perfect for meal prep!

Final Thoughts

Garlic, Lemon, and Herb Grilled Chicken Breasts are not only delicious but also versatile. This recipe is ideal for summer grilling gatherings or weeknight dinners alike. With options to add your favorite herbs or pair with various sides, it’s easy to customize based on your preferences. Give it a try—you’ll love how simple yet flavorful this dish is!

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Garlic, Lemon, and Herb Grilled Chicken Breasts

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• Author: Sofia
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Indulge in the refreshing flavors of Garlic, Lemon, and Herb Grilled Chicken Breasts—an ideal choice for summer barbecues or weeknight dinners. This recipe brings together juicy chicken breasts marinated in a zesty blend of garlic, fresh lemon juice, and aromatic herbs that will tantalize your taste buds. With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a gourmet meal that impresses family and friends alike. Serve it as is or incorporate it into salads, wraps, or sandwiches for versatile meal options throughout the week. Enjoy the healthy benefits of this low-carb, high-protein dish while making delightful memories around the grill.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 6 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 3 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 2 teaspoons Spike Seasoning (or all-purpose seasoning)
• Assorted dried herbs (basil, oregano, sage)

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Instructions

1. Trim excess fat from chicken breasts for even cooking.
2. Score each breast with shallow cuts to enhance marinade absorption.
3. Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, seasonings, and herbs for the marinade.
4. Marinate chicken in a sealed bag for at least 5 hours (ideally up to 8).
5. Preheat grill to medium-high heat; clean and oil grates.
6. Grill chicken for 3-4 minutes per side until fully cooked (internal temp: 165F/74C).
7. Rest briefly before serving hot or using in other dishes.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 chicken breast (approximately 170g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 0 g
• Sodium: 300 mg
• Fat: 20 g
• Saturated Fat: 3 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 2 g
• Fiber: 0 g
• Protein: 38 g
• Cholesterol: 120 mg

Keywords: Customize with your favorite herbs like thyme or rosemary. Perfect for meal prep; leftovers keep well in the fridge or freezer.