Craving a flavorful, healthy meal that’s simple to prepare? This Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken is a perfect light dinner recipe, offering tender chicken bursting with bright, fresh tastes. It’s incredibly easy to make and guaranteed to become a family favorite.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well too.
- Fresh Herbs: A mix of parsley, oregano, and thyme adds the best flavor. Dried herbs can be used, but use about half the amount.
- Lemons: Essential for that vibrant citrus kick.
- Olive Oil: Any neutral cooking oil can be substituted.
- Garlic: Garlic powder works if fresh isn’t available (use 1/2 teaspoon per clove).
Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs total)
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (from 1 lemon)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon chopped fresh oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Optional Garnish:
- Lemon wedges
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories per serving: Approximately 250-300 (depending on chicken size and oil used)
- Tools Needed: Mixing bowl, grill or grill pan, tongs, meat thermometer.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade
In a medium bowl, combine the lemon juice, olive oil, fresh parsley, oregano, thyme, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until well mixed. This creates the flavor base for your light dinner recipe.
2. Marinate the Chicken
Add the chicken breasts to the bowl with the marinade. Turn the chicken to coat each piece thoroughly. Cover the bowl and let it marinate at room temperature for at least 15 minutes, or in the refrigerator for up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat Your Grill
Preheat your outdoor grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F / 200°C). If using a grill pan, place it over medium-high heat on your stovetop until hot. A properly heated grill ensures a nice sear.
4. Grill the Chicken
Place the marinated chicken breasts directly on the preheated grill. Cook for 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) with a meat thermometer. Avoid overcooking to keep the chicken juicy.
5. Rest and Serve
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest on a cutting board for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping your light dinner recipe tender. Garnish with fresh lemon wedges and parsley before serving.
Variation Ideas:
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade for a little heat.
- Mediterranean Twist: Include a tablespoon of chopped fresh dill and a sprinkle of dried sumac in the marinade.
- Veggie Skewers: Thread cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, and red onion onto skewers and grill alongside the chicken.
- Sheet Pan Meal: Instead of grilling, bake the chicken and some chopped vegetables (like zucchini and bell peppers) on a sheet pan at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes.
Storage Instructions:
Store any leftover Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, gently warm in a microwave or a skillet over medium heat until heated through. This makes for a quick and easy lunch the next day.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Can I make this chicken in advance?
You can marinate the chicken up to 2 hours ahead of time in the refrigerator.
What side dishes pair well with this chicken?
This grilled chicken pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, quinoa, or brown rice for a complete light dinner recipe.
How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?
The safest way is to use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the chicken; it should read 165°F (74°C).
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
Yes, but use about half the amount of dried herbs compared to fresh, as they are more concentrated.
My chicken always comes out dry. How can I prevent this?
Avoid overcooking! Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches exactly 165°F (74°C) and no higher. Also, letting it rest after grilling helps keep it juicy.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This is a fantastic light dinner recipe for meal prepping. Cook a larger batch and portion it out for quick and healthy meals throughout the week.