Garlic, Lemon, and Herb Grilled Chicken Breasts

This recipe for Garlic, Lemon, and Herb Grilled Chicken Breasts is perfect for summer grilling! The zesty lemon combined with garlic and herbs create a flavor explosion that will have your guests coming back for seconds. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or preparing a family dinner, this dish shines on any occasion. It’s easy to make and results in juicy, tender chicken every time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful Marinade: The combination of garlic, lemon juice, and herbs infuses the chicken with delicious flavors.
• Quick Preparation: With just 25 minutes of prep time, you can enjoy this dish without spending all day in the kitchen.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it hot off the grill or use leftovers in salads, wraps, or sandwiches.
• Healthy Choice: Packed with protein and low in carbohydrates, this grilled chicken fits well into various diets.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Great for making ahead and enjoying throughout the week!

Tools and Preparation

Before you get started on your Garlic, Lemon, and Herb Grilled Chicken Breasts, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smooth.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Ziploc bag (or plastic container)
• Whisk
• Colander
• Instant-Read Meat Thermometer

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Essential for achieving those beautiful grill marks and smoky flavor.
• Ziploc bag: Perfect for marinating the chicken evenly without mess.
• Instant-Read Meat Thermometer: Helps ensure your chicken is cooked to the safe temperature of 165°F/74°C.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 6 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 3 T fresh-squeezed lemon juice
• 1 T garlic powder
• 2 tsp. Spike Seasoning (or another all-purpose seasoning blend)
• 2 tsp. dried basil
• 1 tsp. dried oregano
• 1 tsp. onion powder
• 1/2 tsp. dried sage
• 1/2 tsp. black pepper

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Garlic, Lemon, and Herb Grilled Chicken Breasts

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Trim any visible fat from the chicken breasts. If some breasts are thicker than others, trim them to ensure even cooking. Save any scraps to make homemade chicken stock later.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Cut short shallow slits crosswise down each chicken breast. In a bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, Spike Seasoning (or other seasoning), dried basil, dried oregano, onion powder, dried sage, and black pepper to create a marinade.

Step 3: Marinate Time

Place the chicken in a single layer inside a Ziploc bag or plastic container. Pour in the marinade and seal it tightly. Marinate in the fridge for at least 5–8 hours; turning occasionally if possible.

Step 4: Preheat Your Grill

When ready to cook, drain off the marinade using a colander. Ensure that your grill is clean; spray with non-stick grill spray or brush with oil before preheating it to medium-high heat.

Step 5: Grill the Chicken

Lay each chicken breast top side down on an angle against the grill grates. Cook for 3–4 minutes until you see nice grill marks forming.

Step 6: Flip for More Flavor

Rotate each chicken breast so it’s at an opposite angle to create criss-cross grill marks; cook for an additional 3–4 minutes.

Step 7: Finish Cooking

Turn the chicken over and cook for another 4–6 minutes on the other side. Check that it feels firm but not hard when pressed down gently.

Step 8: Check Doneness

Ensure that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F/74°C using an Instant-Read Meat Thermometer for safety.

Step 9: Serve Hot!

Once cooked through, serve your Garlic, Lemon, and Herb Grilled Chicken Breasts hot off the grill! Enjoy as is or use leftovers creatively over salads or in wraps with avocado and salsa.

How to Serve Garlic, Lemon, and Herb Grilled Chicken Breasts

Serving Garlic, Lemon, and Herb Grilled Chicken Breasts is simple yet versatile. This flavorful chicken pairs well with a variety of dishes, making it perfect for summer meals or gatherings.

Salad Topping

• Use the grilled chicken to add protein to a fresh garden salad. Top with your favorite dressing for a light meal.

Lettuce Wraps

• Slice the chicken and serve it in crisp lettuce leaves with avocado and salsa for a refreshing, low-carb option.

Pita Bread Sandwiches

• Place chunks of chicken inside low-carb pita bread and drizzle with Tzatziki sauce for a tasty Mediterranean-inspired meal.

Grain Bowl

• Combine diced grilled chicken with quinoa or brown rice, roasted vegetables, and a light vinaigrette for a wholesome grain bowl.

Cold Pasta Salad

• Chop the chicken and mix it into a pasta salad with cherry tomatoes, olives, and Italian dressing for a filling side dish.

Skewers

• Cut the grilled chicken into cubes and thread onto skewers with bell peppers and onions for easy serving at parties.

How to Perfect Garlic, Lemon, and Herb Grilled Chicken Breasts

Perfecting your Garlic, Lemon, and Herb Grilled Chicken Breasts is all about technique. Follow these tips to ensure juicy and flavorful results every time.

• Marinate Longer: The longer you marinate the chicken (up to 8 hours), the more flavor it will absorb. This enhances the lemony and herby taste.
• Even Thickness: Make sure your chicken breasts are of even thickness. This ensures they cook evenly on the grill without drying out any parts.
• Check Grill Temperature: Preheat your grill to medium-high before cooking. A hot grill gives you nice sear marks while keeping the inside juicy.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: Cooking chicken to an internal temperature of 165F/74C is crucial. It guarantees safety while ensuring it’s not overcooked.
• Let Rest After Cooking: Allow the chicken to rest for about 5 minutes after grilling. This helps retain juices within the meat.
• Experiment with Herbs: Feel free to swap out or add different herbs like thyme or rosemary in your marinade for unique flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Garlic, Lemon, and Herb Grilled Chicken Breasts

Pairing sides with Garlic, Lemon, and Herb Grilled Chicken Breasts can elevate your meal. Choose from these delicious options that complement the flavors beautifully.

1. Grilled Vegetables: Charred zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus provide a colorful addition that matches well with grilled chicken.
2. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic create a comforting side that balances the zesty flavors of the chicken.
3. Couscous Salad: Light couscous mixed with cucumbers, tomatoes, and herbs offers a refreshing contrast to the rich grilled chicken.
4. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potato wedges seasoned simply enhance both flavor and nutrition alongside your main dish.
5. Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb option, cauliflower rice sautéed in garlic is an excellent way to keep your meal light yet fulfilling.
6. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and brightness that works perfectly alongside juicy grilled chicken.
7. Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn brushed with butter makes for a classic summer side that’s always popular at barbecues.
8. Herbed Quinoa: Fluffy quinoa tossed with parsley or cilantro complements grilled meats well while adding protein to your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Garlic, Lemon, and Herb Grilled Chicken Breasts, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Skipping the Marinade: Not allowing the chicken to marinate can lead to bland flavors. Always marinate for at least 5-6 hours for the best taste.
• Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking chicken for too long can dry it out. Use an Instant-Read Meat Thermometer to ensure it reaches 165F/74C.
• Ignoring Grill Temperature: Cooking on a grill that is too hot or too cold can ruin your chicken. Preheat your grill properly before cooking.
• Cutting Chicken Too Soon: Slicing into the chicken immediately after grilling can cause juices to escape. Let it rest for a few minutes before cutting.
• Using Thick Chicken Breasts: Unevenly sized chicken breasts cook unevenly. Trim them to uniform thickness for even cooking.
• Not Cleaning the Grill: A dirty grill can cause sticking and flare-ups. Always clean your grill before cooking for the best results.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store grilled chicken in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 4 days in the fridge.
• Make sure it’s completely cool before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing Garlic, Lemon, and Herb Grilled Chicken Breasts

• Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped chicken in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating Garlic, Lemon, and Herb Grilled Chicken Breasts

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in short intervals of 30 seconds until warmed evenly.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat with a little oil. Add chicken and cook until heated through, about 3-5 minutes per side.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other herbs for Garlic, Lemon, and Herb Grilled Chicken Breasts?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with other herbs like thyme or rosemary for different flavor profiles.

How long should I marinate Garlic, Lemon, and Herb Grilled Chicken Breasts?

Marinate for at least 5-6 hours but ideally up to 8 hours for maximum flavor.

What should I serve with Garlic, Lemon, and Herb Grilled Chicken Breasts?

This dish pairs well with salads, grilled vegetables, or rice pilaf.

Can I make Garlic, Lemon, and Herb Grilled Chicken Breasts ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it ahead of time and store leftovers in the fridge or freezer.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This grilled chicken is great for meal prep as it keeps well and is versatile in various dishes.

Final Thoughts

Garlic, Lemon, and Herb Grilled Chicken Breasts is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Its bright flavors make it perfect for summer grilling gatherings or quick weeknight dinners. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite herbs or serve it alongside seasonal vegetables. Give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!

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Garlic, Lemon, and Herb Grilled Chicken Breasts

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• Author: Aileen
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Garlic, Lemon, and Herb Grilled Chicken Breasts is a must-try dish for summer cookouts or quick weeknight dinners. This recipe combines juicy chicken breasts with a vibrant marinade of fresh lemon juice, garlic, and aromatic herbs. The result is a flavorful and tender chicken that will impress your family and guests alike. With minimal prep time of just 25 minutes and a marinating period of 5-8 hours, you can easily prepare this dish ahead of time. Whether served hot off the grill or repurposed in salads and wraps, this recipe is versatile and healthy, making it perfect for any occasion.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 6 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 2 teaspoons Spike Seasoning (or all-purpose seasoning)
• 2 teaspoons dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried sage
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

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Instructions

1. Trim visible fat from chicken breasts to ensure even cooking.
2. Make shallow slits on each breast for better marinade absorption.
3. Whisk olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, spices, and herbs in a bowl for the marinade.
4. Place chicken in a Ziploc bag, pour marinade over it, seal tightly, and refrigerate for 5-8 hours.
5. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
6. Drain the marinade; grill chicken for 3-4 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 165°F.

• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 chicken breast (170g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 0g
• Sodium: 350mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 19g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 28g
• Cholesterol: 90mg