Grilled Lemon Chicken is a vibrant, flavor-packed dish that brings the zesty brightness of lemon to tender, juicy chicken. With just 12 minutes on the grill, the chicken develops a smoky char while staying succulent inside, perfectly complemented by a tangy, herb-infused marinade. This recipe is a light yet satisfying option, balancing bold citrus notes with a hint of garlic and herbs for a mouthwatering experience.
Marinated for 4 hours, the chicken absorbs every drop of the lemony goodness, creating a dish that’s both refreshing and hearty. Each bite offers a delightful contrast of textures—crispy edges and tender meat—while the bright, citrusy aroma will have everyone gathering around the table. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a summer barbecue, this recipe is as easy to make as it is delicious to eat.
Fresh and Flavorful Ingredients
- ½ cup fresh lemon juice (about 2-3 lemons, freshly squeezed for best flavor)
- ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce (or substitute with tamari for a gluten-free option)
- ¼ cup olive oil (extra virgin recommended for richness)
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic (or 2 cloves, finely chopped)
- ½ teaspoon ground ginger (or 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger for a brighter flavor)
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste for more or less heat)
- 6 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 4-6 ounces each, or substitute with chicken thighs)
Simple Steps to Perfect Grilled Lemon Chicken
- Prepare the marinade: In a gallon-sized Ziploc bag, combine lemon juice, soy sauce, olive oil, garlic, ginger, onion powder, and red pepper flakes. Seal the bag and shake well to mix.
- Marinate the chicken: Add the chicken breasts to the bag, ensuring they are fully coated in the marinade. Seal the bag tightly and place it in the refrigerator. Let the chicken marinate for 4-6 hours (or overnight for deeper flavor).
- Preheat the grill: When ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375-400°F).
- Grill the chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade (discard the marinade) and place it on the grill. Cook for 5-6 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. The chicken should have nice grill marks and be juicy inside.
- Rest and serve: Let the chicken rest for 3-5 minutes before serving. This helps lock in the juices. Serve with your favorite sides and enjoy!
Perfect Pairings: Sauce and Serving Ideas
Elevate your Grilled Lemon Chicken with a drizzle of garlic aioli or a tangy lemon-herb sauce. For a fresh twist, serve it with a side of avocado salsa or a simple Greek yogurt dip flavored with dill and lemon zest. Pair the chicken with grilled vegetables, quinoa salad, or garlic butter rice for a complete meal.
Make It Ahead: Storage and Reheating Tips
Store leftover Grilled Lemon Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. Alternatively, warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying out.
Quick Fixes: Time-Saving Tips
Short on time? Use pre-minced garlic and ground ginger to skip chopping. To speed up marinating, place the chicken and marinade in a shallow dish instead of a bag, ensuring the chicken is fully coated. If you’re really in a rush, marinate for at least 30 minutes—it’ll still pack plenty of flavor!
Spice It Up: Recipe Variations
For a sweeter twist, add 1-2 tablespoons of honey to the marinade. If you love heat, double the red pepper flakes or add a dash of sriracha. Swap chicken breasts for thighs or drumsticks for a juicier option. Vegetarian? Try marinating tofu or portobello mushrooms instead!
Grill Like a Pro: Equipment Guidance
For the best results, use a clean, well-oiled grill to prevent sticking. If you don’t have a grill, a grill pan or cast-iron skillet works just as well. Keep a meat thermometer handy to ensure the chicken reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Happy grilling!
Grilled Lemon Chicken
Ingredients
Marinade
- ½ cup fresh lemon juice
- ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- ½ teaspoon ground ginger
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
Chicken
- 6 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Instructions
- Mix together lemon juice, soy sauce, olive oil, garlic, ginger, onion powder and red pepper flakes together in a gallon sized Ziploc bag.
- Add chicken to marinade and seal bag closed.
- Place bag in fridge and let chicken marinate for 4-6 hours (or overnight).
- Remove chicken from bag and discard marinade.
- Place chicken on grill heated to medium-high, cooking 5-6 minutes on each side or until the internal temperature is 165 degrees F.