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If you’re looking for a quick, flavorful, and healthy main meal, this Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken is perfect! It’s juicy, aromatic, and infused with fresh citrus and herbs, making it an easy go-to recipe for lunch or dinner. Whether you’re grilling outdoors or using a stovetop grill, this dish guarantees tender, perfectly seasoned chicken every time.
This high-protein, low-carb recipe is ideal for meal prep, family dinners, or summer barbecues. Plus, it pairs well with many side dishes!
Why You’ll Love This Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken Recipe
✔ Packed with fresh flavors – The lemon juice adds brightness, while herbs and garlic provide a deep, earthy aroma.
✔ Perfectly juicy chicken – The marinade locks in moisture, preventing dry, tough meat.
✔ Easy and quick – Only 5 minutes of prep and 15 minutes of cooking!
✔ Versatile – Works with chicken breasts, thighs, or drumsticks.
✔ Healthy – A great low-carb, high-protein meal for a balanced diet.
Ingredients for Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken
• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
• ¼ cup olive oil
• 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 tbsp lemon zest
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp paprika (optional, for a smoky touch)
📌 Pro Tip: Want extra juiciness? Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness before marinating.
Step-by-Step Instructions for the Best Grilled Chicken
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
1️⃣ In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, rosemary, and thyme.
2️⃣ Pour the marinade over the chicken breasts in a resealable bag or shallow dish.
3️⃣ Marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours for deeper flavor).
📌 Pro Tip: Avoid marinating for more than 4 hours—the acidity of the lemon can make the chicken tough.
Step 2: Preheat the Grill
1️⃣ Heat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
2️⃣ Brush with a little oil to prevent sticking.
Step 3: Grill the Chicken
1️⃣ Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing excess to drip off.
2️⃣ Place on the hot grill and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, flipping once, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
3️⃣ Transfer to a plate and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
📌 Secret Tip: Letting the chicken rest locks in the juices, keeping it tender and flavorful.
What to Serve with Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken?
🍟 Crispy French Fries – A classic side that adds a satisfying crunch.
🥗 Greek Salad – Fresh cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese with a light vinaigrette.
🌾 Garlic Butter Rice – Fluffy, aromatic, and perfect for soaking up the juices.
🥦 Steamed Vegetables – A healthy, light option to balance the meal.
📌 Meal Prep Tip: Slice leftovers and add them to wraps, sandwiches, or salads for easy meals!
Tasty Variations & Add-Ins
🌶 Spicy Kick: Add ½ tsp red pepper flakes for extra heat.
🍊 Citrus Blend: Swap lemon for orange or lime juice for a different flavor twist.
🧄 Extra Garlic: Double the garlic for a bolder taste!
🧀 Parmesan Crust: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving.
🥡 How to Store & Reheat Grilled Chicken
🔹 Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
🔹 Freezing: Wrap cooked chicken in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months.
🔹 Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat or microwave in 30-second intervals to retain juiciness.
📌 Tip: To prevent dryness, sprinkle a little chicken broth or olive oil before reheating!
Frequently Asked Questions
💬 Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
Yes! Use 1 tsp dried rosemary and 1 tsp dried thyme instead of fresh.
💬 Can I bake instead of grilling?
Absolutely! Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until fully cooked.
💬 How can I make this recipe keto-friendly?
This dish is already low-carb and keto-friendly! Just pair it with keto sides like avocado salad or roasted veggies.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
📌 Estimated values
• Calories: 290 kcal
• Protein: 35g
• Carbs: 3g
• Fat: 14g
• Fiber: 1g
This lean, high-protein dish is perfect for healthy eating and weight management!
Tried This Recipe? Show Us Your Dish!
Tag us on Instagram @sweetspotrecipes and use #LemonHerbChicken – we’d love to see your creations!
💬 What’s your favorite grilled chicken side? Let us know in the comments!
Related Recipes You’ll Love
🔹 Want something heartier? Try our Moroccan Chicken Tagine!
🔹 Looking for a creamy dish? Check out our Garlic Chicken Recipe!
📌 Need the best grill pan? Check out expert reviews here.
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