The aroma of grilled lemon herb chicken wafts through the air like a fragrant hug from Mother Nature herself. Imagine tender, juicy chicken kissed by vibrant lemon zest and fresh herbs sizzling over hot coals—it’s practically a celebration on a plate. If that doesn’t get your taste buds tingling in anticipation for Memorial Day, I don’t know what will.
Memorial Day is more than just a three-day weekend; it’s the unofficial start of summer and a chance to gather friends and family around the grill. Let’s be real; nothing brings people together like food—especially when it’s grilled to perfection! So grab your tongs and let’s dive into the magical world of grilling.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This grilled lemon herb chicken is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly flavorful.
- The bright citrus notes combined with fresh herbs will have everyone asking for seconds.
- It makes for a stunning centerpiece at any cookout or barbecue.
- Plus, it’s versatile enough for weeknight dinners or festive occasions.
Memorial Day wouldn’t be complete without my family’s annual cookout featuring this delicious lemon herb chicken. My cousin once declared it “better than fireworks,” which is high praise coming from someone who literally carries sparklers in their pocket.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust depending on how many hungry mouths you’re feeding.
- Fresh Lemons: Opt for firm lemons with smooth skin; they will yield the juiciest results.
- Fresh Herbs (Parsley, Basil, Oregano): Use an assortment of fresh herbs for depth; dried herbs just won’t cut it here.
- Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic will add a punchy flavor; avoid the pre-minced stuff unless necessary.
- Olive Oil: Quality olive oil will enhance flavors and keep the chicken moist while grilling.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning; don’t skimp on them if you want bold flavors.
- Lemon Zest: Zesting adds an extra citrus kick that complements the marinade beautifully.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Marinate the Chicken: Start by placing your boneless, skinless chicken breasts in a bowl or resealable bag. In a separate bowl, whisk together olive oil, juice from two lemons, minced garlic, chopped herbs, salt, pepper, and lemon zest until well combined. Pour this zesty concoction over your chicken and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes—longer if possible—for maximum flavor absorption.
Preheat Your Grill: Fire up your grill while you wait for the magic of marination to unfold. Preheat it to medium-high heat (around 375°F/190°C). You want those grill marks that scream “I’m fancy!” without actually wearing pants.
Grill the Chicken: Once your grill is hot and ready to go, carefully place the marinated chicken on it. Grill each side for about 6-7 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). You should see those beautiful grill marks showing off your culinary skills!
Add Extra Flavor: For an extra burst of flavor during grilling, brush additional marinade over the chicken halfway through cooking. This step is crucial if you want to impress anyone watching who might still be skeptical about your grilling prowess.
Let It Rest!: Once cooked through, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest on a cutting board for about 5 minutes before slicing. This allows juices to redistribute so that every bite is as juicy as possible—no one likes dry chicken!
Serve & Enjoy!: Serve your grilled lemon herb chicken alongside fresh salads or roasted vegetables. Don’t forget some additional lemon wedges on the side because more citrus equals more happiness!
Now grab those napkins—it’s going to get deliciously messy!
Grilling season always reminds me of lazy summer days filled with laughter and good food shared among friends and family. It’s these moments that truly matter—especially when they involve tasty dishes like our beloved lemon herb chicken!
You Must Know
- The secret to juicy Memorial Day Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken lies in marinating overnight.
- This infuses flavor deeply and enhances tenderness, making each bite a burst of sunshine.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by marinating the chicken for at least two hours or overnight for the best flavor. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, then cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side until it’s beautifully charred and has reached an internal temperature of 165°F.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out lemon for lime or even orange to add a twist. Toss in different herbs like thyme or parsley for extra flavor depth, making this dish uniquely yours.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, warm it gently in the oven at 350°F until heated through, preserving its juiciness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To ensure even cooking, let your chicken sit at room temperature before grilling.
- Use a meat thermometer for perfect doneness.
- Always rest your chicken after grilling to let juices redistribute.
The first time I made Memorial Day Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken, my friends devoured it like it was the last meal on Earth! Their compliments made me feel like a culinary rockstar, and I’ve been making it ever since.
FAQ
How long should I marinate the chicken?
Marinate the chicken for at least two hours or ideally overnight to maximize flavor and tenderness.
Can I use other meats instead of chicken?
Yes! This marinade works wonderfully with turkey or tofu if you’re looking for alternatives.
What sides pair well with this grilled chicken?
Serve with fresh salads, grilled vegetables, or pasta salad for a refreshing summer meal.
Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken
Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken is a zesty, juicy delight perfect for Memorial Day gatherings. This easy recipe showcases vibrant flavors that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 2 large lemons (juiced and zested)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh oregano, chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- 1. Marinate the chicken: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, herbs, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Place chicken in a resealable bag or bowl and pour the marinade over it. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight.
- 2. Preheat your grill: Heat the grill to medium-high (375°F).
- 3. Grill the chicken: Remove chicken from marinade and grill each side for about 6-7 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- 4. Let it rest: Remove chicken from the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes before slicing.
- 5. Serve & enjoy: Pair with fresh salads or veggies, adding extra lemon wedges on the side.
Notes
- For added flavor, brush some marinade on during grilling.
- Swap lemon for lime or orange for a different twist.
- Use turkey or tofu in place of chicken if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast (approx. 6 oz / 170g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 460mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
