This Garlic, Lemon, and Herb Grilled Chicken Breasts recipe is perfect for summer grilling! With its bright flavors and mouth-watering aroma, this dish will elevate any gathering. The combination of garlic and lemon makes the chicken juicy and flavorful, while the herbs add a delightful touch. Whether it’s a backyard barbecue or a simple family dinner, this grilled chicken is sure to impress your guests. Plus, it’s easy to make, allowing you to enjoy more time with loved ones.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in under 40 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings.
- Flavorful Marinade: The blend of garlic, lemon, and herbs creates a zesty marinade that infuses the chicken with amazing flavor.
- Versatile Dish: Enjoy this grilled chicken on its own or use it in salads, wraps, or as a topping for various dishes.
- Healthy Option: Packed with protein and low in carbs, this recipe aligns well with many dietary preferences.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: This chicken is great for leftovers; it can be stored in the fridge and used in multiple meals throughout the week.
Tools and Preparation
To prepare your Garlic, Lemon, and Herb Grilled Chicken Breasts, having the right tools will help ensure a smooth cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Grill
- Ziploc bag or plastic container
- Whisk
- Colander
- Instant-read meat thermometer
Importance of Each Tool
- Grill: A clean grill ensures even cooking and the best flavor from those beautiful grill marks.
- Ziploc bag or plastic container: Ideal for marinating the chicken evenly without taking up too much space in your fridge.
- Whisk: Perfect for blending all marinade ingredients quickly and thoroughly.
- Instant-read meat thermometer: Provides precise temperature readings to ensure the chicken is cooked safely.
Ingredients
Here are the ingredients you need for this delicious recipe:
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 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 an even thickness.
- Cut short shallow slits crosswise down each breast to help absorb more marinade.
Step 2: Make the Marinade
- In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, Spike Seasoning (or other seasoning), dried basil, dried oregano, onion powder, dried sage, and black pepper until combined.
Step 3: Marinate the Chicken
- Place chicken breasts in a single layer inside a Ziploc bag or plastic container.
- Pour marinade over the chicken; seal tightly.
- Marinate in the fridge for at least 5-6 hours (preferably 8 hours), turning occasionally if possible.
Step 4: Preheat the Grill
- Remove chicken from marinade and drain using a colander.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat after cleaning it well.
- Spray grill grates with non-stick spray or brush with oil before placing on heat.
Step 5: Grill the Chicken
- Place chicken on the grill top side down at an angle to create grill marks.
- Cook for about 3-4 minutes before checking if grill marks have formed.
- Rotate each breast at an opposite angle to cook for another 3-4 minutes.
- Once marked well on one side, flip each breast over and cook for 4-6 minutes more until firm but not hard when pressed.
Step 6: Check Doneness
- Use an instant-read meat thermometer to ensure internal temperature reaches 165F/74C before removing from heat.
Step 7: Serve
- Serve hot immediately after grilling.
- Store leftovers properly in the refrigerator for future meals like salads or wraps!
How to Serve Garlic, Lemon, and Herb Grilled Chicken Breasts
Serving Garlic, Lemon, and Herb Grilled Chicken Breasts can elevate any meal. This flavorful dish pairs well with various sides and toppings that complement its zesty profile.
Salad Ideas
- Garden Salad: Fresh greens topped with cucumbers, tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine, Parmesan cheese, croutons, and Caesar dressing for a classic touch.
- Greek Salad: Feta cheese, olives, and red onion add a Mediterranean flair.
Wraps and Sandwiches
- Lettuce Wraps: Use large lettuce leaves to wrap the grilled chicken with avocado and salsa for a low-carb option.
- Pita Pockets: Fill whole-wheat pita bread with sliced chicken and some tzatziki sauce for added creaminess.
- Baguette Sandwich: Place the chicken on a crusty baguette with arugula and lemon aioli for a gourmet sandwich.
Grains
- Quinoa Bowl: Serve the chicken over quinoa mixed with veggies for a nutritious boost.
- Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf seasoned with herbs complements the grilled flavors beautifully.
How to Perfect Garlic, Lemon, and Herb Grilled Chicken Breasts
Perfecting your Garlic, Lemon, and Herb Grilled Chicken Breasts can make all the difference. Follow these tips to ensure juicy and flavorful results every time.
- bold Marinate Well: Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 5-6 hours helps infuse it with flavor.
- bold Preheat Your Grill: A hot grill ensures nice grill marks and prevents sticking.
- bold Check Thickness: Uniform thickness in chicken breasts promotes even cooking; pound thicker parts if needed.
- bold Use a Meat Thermometer: Cooking the chicken to 165F/74C guarantees it’s safe to eat while maintaining juiciness.
- bold Let It Rest: Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after grilling to lock in juices before slicing.
- bold Experiment with Herbs: Feel free to customize the herb blend based on your preference or what you have on hand.
Best Side Dishes for Garlic, Lemon, and Herb Grilled Chicken Breasts
Pairing side dishes with your Garlic, Lemon, and Herb Grilled Chicken Breasts enhances your meal. Here are some great options to consider.
- Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus drizzled with olive oil make a colorful addition.
- Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs bring heartiness to the table.
- Coleslaw: A refreshing cabbage slaw provides crunch and balances the richness of the chicken.
- Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any juices left on your plate.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn pairs wonderfully with grilled flavors; try it brushed with lime butter.
- Couscous Salad: Light couscous tossed with cherry tomatoes and parsley offers a light yet satisfying side.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
It’s easy to make mistakes when grilling chicken, especially with a flavorful recipe like Garlic, Lemon, and Herb Grilled Chicken Breasts. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:
- Skipping the Marinade Time: Not marinating long enough can lead to bland chicken. Aim for at least 5-6 hours for the best flavor.
- Overcrowding the Grill: Placing too many chicken breasts on the grill can cause uneven cooking. Grill in batches if necessary to ensure all pieces cook properly.
- Using High Heat Immediately: Starting on high heat can char the outside while leaving the inside undercooked. Preheat your grill but use medium-high heat for even cooking.
- Neglecting to Check Doneness: Relying solely on time can be misleading. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165F/74C for safety.
- Cutting Into Chicken Too Soon: Slicing into the chicken immediately after grilling can release juices and dry it out. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store cooked chicken in an airtight container in the fridge.
- It is best consumed within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.
Freezing Garlic, Lemon, and Herb Grilled Chicken Breasts
- Place cooled chicken in freezer-safe bags or containers.
- It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Ensure all air is removed from bags before sealing.
Reheating Garlic, Lemon, and Herb Grilled Chicken Breasts
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken in a baking dish covered with foil and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in 30-second intervals until hot.
- Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a bit of oil. Cook chicken for approximately 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long should I marinate Garlic, Lemon, and Herb Grilled Chicken Breasts?
Marinate the chicken for at least 5-6 hours, but overnight is ideal for maximum flavor.
Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just ensure they are fully thawed before marinating and grilling them.
What sides pair well with Garlic, Lemon, and Herb Grilled Chicken Breasts?
This dish pairs well with grilled vegetables, salads, or rice dishes that complement its flavors.
How do I ensure my Garlic, Lemon, and Herb Grilled Chicken Breasts are juicy?
Avoid overcooking by using a meat thermometer to check that it reaches an internal temperature of 165F/74C.
Can I customize this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to adjust the herbs or add spices according to your taste preferences.
Final Thoughts
Garlic, Lemon, and Herb Grilled Chicken Breasts are not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. This recipe shines during summer grilling season and offers endless customization options—whether you want extra zest or different herbs. You’ll enjoy this delicious dish as leftovers too! Try it today!
Garlic, Lemon, and Herb Grilled Chicken Breasts
Garlic, Lemon, and Herb Grilled Chicken Breasts is a must-try recipe that brings vibrant flavors to your summer grilling. This dish features juicy chicken marinated in a zesty blend of garlic, fresh lemon juice, and aromatic herbs. Perfect for any gathering or casual family dinner, this grilled chicken is both easy to prepare and deliciously satisfying. The marinade infuses the chicken with delightful flavors while keeping it tender and moist. Serve it alongside salads, wraps, or your favorite grains for a wholesome meal that everyone will love. Enjoy the taste of summer with this delightful grilled chicken recipe that promises to impress!
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 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 blend)
- 2 teaspoons dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried sage
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Trim excess fat from chicken breasts and cut shallow slits across each breast.
- In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, seasoning blend, basil, oregano, onion powder, sage, and pepper.
- Place chicken in a Ziploc bag or container and pour marinade over it; seal tightly. Refrigerate for at least 5-6 hours or overnight if possible.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat and clean the grates.
- Remove chicken from marinade and drain well. Grill chicken for about 3-4 minutes per side until cooked through (165F/74C).
- Let rest briefly before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 330
- Sugar: 0 grams
- Sodium: 400 mg
- Fat: 20 grams
- Saturated Fat: 3 grams
- Unsaturated Fat: 17 grams
- Trans Fat: 0 grams
- Carbohydrates: 2 grams
- Fiber: 0 grams
- Protein: 30 grams
- Cholesterol: 90 mg
Keywords: For added flavor variations, experiment with different herbs like thyme or rosemary. Ensure even cooking by pounding thicker sections of the chicken breast to uniform thickness.