a sunny day, the grill sizzling away while the aroma of Memorial Day Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken wafts through the air, making everyone’s mouths water. That vibrant burst of citrus mingling with fresh herbs is not just food; it’s an experience that brings people together.
Every bite of this juicy chicken takes you back to family gatherings filled with laughter and sunshine. Whether it’s a backyard barbecue or a potluck picnic at the park, this dish is your ticket to flavor town and fun memories.
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This recipe is simple enough for beginner cooks while still impressing seasoned chefs. The flavor profile combines zesty lemon with fragrant herbs, creating a taste explosion. Visually stunning with a golden brown crust and vibrant green herbs, it’s as delightful to look at as it is to eat. Perfect for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to festive holiday gatherings.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This delicious grilled lemon herb chicken makes meal prep a breeze while delivering amazing flavors
- Customize it with your favorite herbs or spices based on what you have on hand
- The vibrant colors will make your dinner table pop
- Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing
I remember my friends’ jaws dropping when I served this chicken at last year’s summer barbecue—it was a hit!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 pieces; they cook evenly and are easy to marinate.
- Fresh Lemons: Choose bright yellow lemons; their juice adds tanginess while the zest enhances flavor.
- Olive Oil: Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil; it brings richness and helps keep the chicken moist during grilling.
- Fresh Herbs (Parsley and Thyme): Opt for fresh herbs over dried; they add vibrant flavor and aroma that dried simply can’t match.
- Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic is key here; crushed garlic elevates the marinade’s taste dramatically.
- Salt and Pepper: Don’t skimp on seasoning—these basics enhance all other flavors in your dish.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 375°F). This ensures perfect cooking without burning those lovely herb flavors.
Create the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, chopped parsley, thyme leaves, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Marinate the Chicken: Place your chicken breasts in a zip-top bag or shallow dish. Pour marinade over them and seal or cover tightly. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes—longer if you can wait!
Prepare Your Grill: Ensure grates are clean by scraping them down before you start grilling. You want those beautiful grill marks without any leftover bits from previous meals.
Grill Time!: Remove marinated chicken from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before grilling. Place on hot grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side until juices run clear.
Let It Rest: Once done cooking (internal temperature should be 165°F), transfer chicken to a plate and let rest for about 5 minutes—this helps retain moisture while you prepare sides.
Serve alongside your favorite salads or grilled veggies for an unforgettable meal that makes everyone fight over seconds!
You Must Know
- This flavorful Memorial Day Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken is a crowd-pleaser
- The marinade not only infuses the chicken with zing but also helps it stay juicy on the grill
- Perfect for outdoor gatherings, this dish presents vibrant colors and mouthwatering aromas that everyone will love
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by marinating your chicken for at least an hour to maximize flavor. Preheat your grill while the chicken absorbs those zesty herbs, then cook each side until golden brown, ensuring it’s cooked through.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap in different herbs like rosemary or thyme for a unique twist. You can also add chili flakes for a kick or toss in some veggies like zucchini and bell peppers alongside the chicken.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, place in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, ensuring it doesn’t dry out.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use fresh herbs for maximum flavor, as dried ones can dull the taste
- Always let your chicken rest after grilling; this keeps it juicy and tender
- A meat thermometer will ensure perfect doneness without guesswork
Memorial Day BBQs are unforgettable when friends rave about this lemon herb chicken. One year, my neighbor declared it “the best grilled chicken ever,” which made my day and fueled my passion for grilling!
FAQ
How long should I marinate Memorial Day Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken?
Marinate the chicken for at least one hour, or overnight for deeper flavor.
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, just ensure it’s fully thawed before marinating and grilling.
What sides pair well with lemon herb grilled chicken?
Fresh salads, grilled vegetables, or garlic bread complement this dish nicely!
Memorial Day Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Celebrate Memorial Day with this zesty Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken, bursting with fresh flavors and perfect for sunny gatherings.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Juice and zest of 2 fresh lemons
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (375°F).
- In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper. Whisk until well mixed.
- Place the chicken in a zip-top bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over it. Seal tightly and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Clean the grill grates before grilling.
- Remove chicken from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes.
- Grill chicken for approximately 6-7 minutes on each side until juices run clear and internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Transfer to a plate and let rest for about 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- For extra kick, add chili flakes to the marinade.
- Feel free to substitute herbs like rosemary or oregano.
- Serve with grilled veggies or a fresh salad.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast (approximately 6 oz)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 0 g
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 2 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 43 g
- Cholesterol: 100 mg