Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken

Name: Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1/4 cup olive oil; Juice of 2 lemons; 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped; 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped; 4 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

Highlighted under: Comfort Recipes

When I think of summer barbecues, Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken always comes to mind. The zesty and vibrant flavors paired with the juicy chicken create a dish that is both refreshing and satisfying. I've made this recipe countless times for friends and family, and it never fails to impress. The combination of fresh herbs and lemon juice truly enhances the chicken, making it a staple in my grilling repertoire. Plus, it's simple enough for weeknight dinners yet elegant for entertaining.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-20T12:54:28.844Z

As I experimented with different marinades, I discovered that the acidity of lemon not only tenderizes the chicken but also infuses it with an incredible flavor. The fresh herbs, such as rosemary and thyme, add a delightful aroma that wafts through the air as the chicken grills. This combination has turned into a family favorite that everyone looks forward to during summer cookouts.

One tip I’ve learned is to allow the chicken to marinate for at least an hour—or even overnight—if possible. This extra time allows the flavors to penetrate deeper, ensuring every bite is bursting with that bright lemony goodness. Trust me, it’s worth the wait!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Bright and zesty flavor that shines through every bite
Juicy and tender chicken grilled to perfection
Quick preparation time makes it a weeknight favorite

      

Choosing the Right Chicken

When selecting chicken breasts for Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken, opt for those that are uniform in thickness to ensure even cooking. This helps prevent dry, overcooked edges while the center remains raw. If necessary, you can pound thicker cuts to a more consistent thickness of about 3/4 inch. This technique not only promotes even grilling but also helps the marinade penetrate better, enhancing the overall flavor of the chicken.

For this recipe, boneless skinless chicken breasts are ideal due to their quick cooking time and ability to absorb flavors from the marinade. However, if you prefer a more juicy and flavorful option, consider using bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs. Just remember to adjust the cooking time, as thighs will take longer than breasts to reach the necessary internal temperature of 165°F.

Mastering the Marinade

The marinade is crucial to achieving the vibrant flavor profile of this dish. Fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme not only add aroma but also contribute to the overall brightness of each bite. If fresh herbs aren't available, you could use dried herbs, but adjust the quantity to about one-third of the fresh amount, as dried herbs are more concentrated. The lemon juice acts as a tenderizer, breaking down the chicken proteins while adding a refreshing zing.

Make sure to whisk the marinade well until the ingredients are fully combined and emulsified. This will ensure that the oils and acids blend properly, coating the chicken evenly. If you prefer a bit of heat, adding red pepper flakes can elevate the flavor without overpowering the fresh herbal notes. For a sweeter touch, a teaspoon of honey or agave syrup can be incorporated into the marinade.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to make the Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken:

For the Marinade:

1/4 cup olive oil
Juice of 2 lemons
2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Chicken:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

Make sure to marinate the chicken for at least an hour for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these steps to grill the perfect Lemon Herb Chicken:

Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, rosemary, thyme, garlic, salt, and pepper.

Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken breasts in a zip-top bag and pour the marinade over them. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

Preheat the Grill

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat to ensure a nice sear on the chicken.

Grill the Chicken

Remove the chicken from the marinade and let any excess liquid drip off. Grill each breast for 6–7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked.

Rest and Serve

Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve with your favorite sides.

Enjoy your delicious Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken with fresh vegetables or a salad!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade for a mild kick.

Grilling Tips

Preheating the grill is a critical step for achieving those beautiful grill marks and a nice sear. Aim for a medium-high heat of about 375°F to 450°F. This allows the chicken to cook thoroughly without drying out, sealing in the juices. To prevent sticking, consider oiling the grill grates or lightly brushing the chicken with oil before placing it on the grill.

While grilling, resist the urge to constantly flip the chicken. Letting it sit for 6–7 minutes on each side develops a nice crust and enhances the flavor. You'll know it's ready to flip when it releases easily from the grate and has developed golden-brown grill marks. Always use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, ensuring it reaches 165°F for safety.

Serving Suggestions

Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. For a light summer meal, consider serving it with a refreshing cucumber salad or grilled vegetables like asparagus and bell peppers. A side of garlic bread or quinoa also complements the dish beautifully, soaking up the remaining marinade flavors on your plate.

If you're hosting a gathering, this chicken is versatile enough for meal prepping. You can prepare a larger batch, slice the cooked chicken, and serve it on a bed of mixed greens with a tangy vinaigrette for a quick, flavorful salad option. Alternatively, you can serve it as a sandwich with fresh toppings, turning leftovers into a delightful next-day lunch.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use bone-in chicken instead?

Yes, just adjust the cooking time to ensure the chicken is fully cooked, as bone-in pieces take longer.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze the marinated chicken?

Absolutely! Freeze the marinated chicken in a zip-top bag for up to 3 months. Just thaw it in the refrigerator before grilling.

→ What sides pair well with this dish?

This chicken goes wonderfully with a fresh green salad, grilled vegetables, or a fluffy quinoa salad.