Description
This Easy Lemon Garlic Chicken recipe features tender boneless, skinless chicken breasts marinated in a vibrant blend of fresh lemon juice, garlic, and herbs, then perfectly grilled or pan-seared to juicy perfection. It’s a quick and flavorful dish ideal for a healthy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 1.5 to 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts
Marinade
- 2 large fresh lemons (zested and juiced)
- 4 large garlic cloves (minced)
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
- ¼ cup chopped fresh herbs (parsley or thyme)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the marinade. In a bowl, combine the lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, olive oil, chopped fresh herbs, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly to blend the flavors.
- Marinate the chicken. Place the chicken breasts in the bowl with the marinade, ensuring each piece is well coated. Cover and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator for more intense flavor.
- Preheat cooking surface. Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat until hot, preparing it for cooking the chicken evenly.
- Cook the chicken. Place the marinated chicken breasts on the grill or skillet. Cook for about 6 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) indicating the chicken is fully cooked.
- Rest and serve. Remove the chicken from heat and let it rest briefly for a few minutes to retain juices, then serve hot for a delicious meal.
Notes
- Marinate the chicken longer for a more pronounced lemon and garlic flavor.
- Use fresh herbs like parsley or thyme depending on your taste preference.
- If you don’t have fresh lemons, bottled lemon juice can be used but fresh is preferred.
- Ensure chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F for food safety.
- Leftover chicken can be refrigerated up to 3 days and reheated gently.
