Garlic, Lemon, and Herb Grilled Chicken Breasts

This recipe for Garlic, Lemon, and Herb Grilled Chicken Breasts is perfect for summer grilling! With its fresh flavors and simple preparation, it suits any occasion, from family dinners to backyard barbecues. This dish features juicy chicken marinated in zesty lemon juice and aromatic herbs, making it a go-to recipe that you’ll want to make all summer long.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation – With just a few simple steps, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time.
• Flavorful Marinade – The combination of garlic, lemon, and herbs infuses the chicken with mouthwatering flavor.
• Versatile Serving Options – Enjoy it on its own or use leftovers in salads and wraps for a tasty meal.
• Healthy Choice – Packed with protein and low in carbs, this grilled chicken is great for various diet plans.
• Perfect for Meal Prep – Make a big batch and use it throughout the week for quick lunches and dinners.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking your Garlic, Lemon, and Herb Grilled Chicken Breasts, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process much smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Ziploc bag or plastic container
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Colander

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill – A reliable grill ensures even cooking and perfect grill marks on your chicken.
• Ziploc bag or plastic container – Ideal for marinating the chicken; it keeps the flavors locked in.
• Whisk – Helps combine the marinade ingredients thoroughly for even flavor distribution.

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 use 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 down to ensure even cooking. Save any scraps in the freezer for homemade chicken stock later.

Step 2: Score the Chicken

Cut short shallow slits crosswise into each chicken breast. This helps the marinade penetrate better.

Step 3: Make the Marinade

In a bowl, whisk together:
1. Olive oil
2. Fresh-squeezed lemon juice
3. Garlic powder
4. Spike Seasoning (or another all-purpose seasoning)
5. Dried basil
6. Dried oregano
7. Onion powder
8. Dried sage
9. Black pepper

Step 4: Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken in a single layer inside a Ziploc bag or a plastic container with a snap-tight lid. Pour in the marinade and seal it tightly. Marinate in the fridge for at least 5 to 8 hours, turning occasionally if possible.

Step 5: Preheat Your Grill

When ready to cook, drain off the marinade using a colander to prevent flare-ups on the grill.

Step 6: Grill the Chicken

Ensure your grill is clean and preheated to medium-high heat:
1. Lay the chicken top side down on an angle to the grill grates.
2. Cook for 3–4 minutes until you see good grill marks.
3. Rotate each piece of chicken to create criss-cross marks; cook an additional 3–4 minutes.

Step 7: Finish Cooking

Turn each piece over and cook for another 4–6 minutes until fully cooked through (165°F/74°C).

Step 8: Serve

Serve hot with garnished parsley on top! This grilled chicken is also excellent as leftovers over salads or in wraps.

Enjoy your flavorful Garlic, Lemon, and Herb Grilled Chicken Breasts!

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

Serving Garlic, Lemon, and Herb Grilled Chicken Breasts can elevate any meal, especially during the warm months. Here are some delicious ways to enjoy this flavorful dish.

Over a Fresh Salad

• Mixed Greens: Top a bed of mixed greens with sliced grilled chicken for a light and healthy meal.
• Caesar Salad: Add chicken to a classic Caesar salad for extra protein and flavor.

In Lettuce Wraps

• Lettuce Cups: Use large lettuce leaves as wraps filled with grilled chicken, avocado, and salsa for a low-carb option.

With Tzatziki Sauce

• Mediterranean Style: Serve slices of chicken with creamy tzatziki sauce on the side for a refreshing dip.

In Pita Bread

• Pita Sandwiches: Stuff grilled chicken into whole wheat pita bread along with veggies for a quick lunch.

As Meal Prep

• Leftover Goodness: Shred leftover chicken to use in wraps or salads throughout the week.

With Grains

• Quinoa Bowl: Pair sliced chicken with quinoa, roasted veggies, and a drizzle of olive oil for a filling bowl meal.

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

Achieving perfectly grilled chicken breasts can be easy with the right tips. Follow these suggestions to enhance your grilling skills.

• Bold Marinade: Ensure you marinate the chicken for at least 5-6 hours to enhance flavor and tenderness.
• Equal Thickness: Trim chicken breasts to an even thickness before grilling to ensure uniform cooking.
• Preheat the Grill: Always preheat your grill to medium-high. This helps achieve those beautiful grill marks.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: Invest in an Instant-Read Meat Thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165F/74C for safety.
• Let It Rest: After grilling, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. This keeps it juicy.
• Experiment with Herbs: Feel free to add different herbs in the marinade based on your preference for variety.

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 experience. Here are some delightful options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make a comforting side dish.
2. Grilled Vegetables: A colorful mix of zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus grilled alongside the chicken adds freshness.
3. Couscous Salad: Light couscous mixed with diced tomatoes and cucumbers brings texture and flavor.
4. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes roasted until crispy complement the savory taste of grilled chicken beautifully.
5. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with butter is an easy and classic summer side.
6. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and balances out flavors well.
7. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf with herbs is an excellent base for grilled chicken slices.
8. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, basil drizzled with balsamic glaze pairs wonderfully with the lemony flavor of the chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Marinating chicken can be simple, but there are common pitfalls. Avoiding these mistakes will ensure your Garlic, Lemon, and Herb Grilled Chicken Breasts turn out perfectly every time.

• Skipping the marinating step – Marinating is essential for flavor. If you skip it, the chicken will be bland. Aim for at least 5-6 hours for the best taste.
• Not trimming the chicken properly – Uneven thickness can lead to uneven cooking. Always trim excess fat and make breasts similar in thickness for consistent results.
• Using a dirty grill – A clean grill is crucial for good flavor and preventing sticking. Always clean your grill before cooking to achieve those beautiful grill marks.
• Ignoring cooking temperature – Cooking chicken at too high a temperature can burn the outside while leaving the inside raw. Preheat to medium-high for even cooking.
• Rushing the resting time – Letting the chicken rest after grilling allows juices to redistribute. Skipping this step can lead to dry chicken when you cut into it.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Allow the chicken to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Garlic, Lemon, and Herb Grilled Chicken Breasts

• Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
• Place in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Garlic, Lemon, and Herb Grilled Chicken Breasts

• Oven – Preheat your oven 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 – Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate. Cover with a damp paper towel and heat for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
• Stovetop – Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a bit of oil or butter, then add the chicken. Cook until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Garlic, Lemon, and Herb Grilled Chicken Breasts so flavorful?

The marinade combines olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, and herbs that infuse the chicken with delicious flavors while it marinates.

How long should I marinate the chicken?

For optimal flavor, marinate for at least 5-6 hours but ideally up to 8 hours if possible.

Can I customize the herbs used in this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute your favorite herbs like thyme or rosemary based on your preferences.

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

This dish pairs well with salads, grilled vegetables, or even as a filling in wraps or sandwiches.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! The grilled chicken is great for meal prep and can be stored easily in the refrigerator or freezer.

Final Thoughts

Garlic, Lemon, and Herb Grilled Chicken Breasts are not only full of flavor but also versatile enough to fit any meal plan. This recipe is perfect for summer grilling but can be enjoyed year-round. Feel free to customize it with your favorite spices or sides! Give it a try; you won’t be disappointed!

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Garlic, Lemon, and Herb Grilled Chicken Breasts

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• Author: Lucille
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately six people 1x

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Description

Garlic, Lemon, and Herb Grilled Chicken Breasts are a must-try for any summer gathering. This delightful dish features juicy chicken breasts marinated in a zesty blend of garlic, fresh lemon juice, and aromatic herbs. Perfectly grilled to perfection, each bite is bursting with flavor, making it an ideal choice for family dinners, barbecues, or meal prep for the week ahead. Not only is this recipe easy to prepare, but it’s also versatile enough to complement salads, wraps, and grain bowls. Enjoy the freshness of summer with this deliciously simple grilled chicken!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

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

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Instructions

1. Trim any visible fat from the chicken breasts.
2. Score shallow slits crosswise into each breast for better marinade absorption.
3. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, Spike Seasoning, basil, oregano, onion powder, sage, and black pepper.
4. Place chicken in a Ziploc bag or container; pour marinade over it and seal tightly. Refrigerate for at least 5 to 8 hours.
5. Preheat grill to medium-high heat; drain excess marinade.
6. Grill chicken top-side down for 3–4 minutes until grill marks form; rotate to create criss-cross marks and cook an additional 3–4 minutes.
7. Flip and cook for another 4–6 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
8. Serve hot with chopped parsley on top.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 chicken breast (approximately 170g)
• Calories: 340
• Sugar: 0 g
• Sodium: 210 mg
• Fat: 22 g
• Saturated Fat: 3 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 17 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 0 g
• Fiber: 0 g
• Protein: 30 g
• Cholesterol: 115 mg