The tantalizing aroma of grilled lemon herb chicken wafts through the air like a fragrant hug on a sunny day. The juicy chicken sizzles on the grill, kissed by zesty citrus and aromatic herbs that dance together in a deliciously fragrant symphony. Picture yourself surrounded by friends and family on Memorial Day, laughter ringing as you unveil this delightful dish that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.
Ah, Memorial Day—the unofficial start of summer! It’s a time when we gather around grills, share stories, and feast on mouthwatering dishes that warm our hearts. Our hero today? The spectacular Memorial Day grilled lemon herb chicken. With each bite bursting with flavor and freshness, this dish perfectly captures the spirit of celebration while creating lasting memories.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This flavorful lemon herb marinade is incredibly easy to prepare and makes meal prep a breeze
- The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning at any gathering
- Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing
- This dish pairs beautifully with salads or fresh vegetables for a balanced meal
When I first tried my hand at grilling lemon herb chicken for a family barbecue, the compliments rolled in like waves at the beach. My uncle even declared it “the best thing since sliced bread,” which is quite the endorsement coming from him!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 breasts; adjust based on your crowd size.
- Fresh Lemons: Use ripe lemons for juicing; they bring brightness that elevates the entire dish.
- Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds richness and helps the marinade cling to the chicken beautifully.
- Garlic Cloves: Fresh minced garlic packs a punch; it’s essential for that aromatic flavor you crave.
- Fresh Herbs (Parsley & Thyme): Choose vibrant herbs; they add freshness and a pop of color to your dish.
- Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings; adjust according to your taste preference.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Grilling up this sensational lemon herb chicken involves several simple steps that will have you feeling like a culinary genius in no time!
Create the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, chopped parsley, thyme leaves, salt, and pepper until well combined. You want it to be fragrant!
Marinate the Chicken: Add your boneless chicken breasts to the marinade ensuring they’re well coated. Cover with plastic wrap or place them in a resealable bag; let them soak in those flavors for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight if you’re feeling fancy).
Preheat Your Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375°F). Brush grates with oil before placing your marinated chicken on it—this prevents sticking and keeps cleanup easy.
Grill Time!: Place the marinated chicken breasts onto the hot grill. Cook for about 6-8 minutes per side until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F—a good meat thermometer can be your best friend here!
Add Final Touches: Once cooked through and beautifully charred on both sides, remove from heat and let rest for a few minutes before slicing. This allows juices to redistribute so every bite stays juicy!
Serve & Enjoy!: Serve your grilled lemon herb chicken warm alongside fresh salad or roasted veggies—don’t forget those extra lemon wedges for squeezing right before digging in!
This Memorial Day grilled lemon herb chicken isn’t just food; it’s an experience! Each bite bursts with zesty flavor while transporting you straight into summer bliss!
Now gather around that grill—friends are waiting!
You Must Know
- This Memorial Day Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken is not just flavorful; it’s a grilling game changer
- The bright citrus and herb notes make it perfect for summer gatherings
- Easy to prepare and even easier to devour, it’s a surefire hit at any cookout
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by marinating the chicken for at least two hours. Grill over medium heat, turning occasionally until cooked through, about 15-20 minutes.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap in your favorite herbs like rosemary or thyme. Add some garlic for an extra punch of flavor that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- A well-rested chicken ensures juiciness; let it sit for 5 minutes before slicing
- Always use a meat thermometer to check doneness at 165°F
- Marinate overnight for deeper flavor infusion that will impress your guests
Memorial Day barbecues remind me of my Uncle Joe’s legendary grill skills. He once grilled chicken so perfectly juicy that he still gets requests every summer!
FAQ
How long should I marinate the chicken?
Marinate for at least two hours, but overnight is even better for 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 grilled lemon herb chicken?
Consider fresh salads, grilled vegetables, or corn on the cob for delightful accompaniments.
Memorial Day Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken
- Total Time: 46 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
This grilled lemon herb chicken is a vibrant dish bursting with zesty flavors and fresh herbs, making it the perfect centerpiece for your Memorial Day celebration.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (1.5 lbs)
- 2 fresh lemons (juiced)
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped)
- 2 tbsp fresh thyme (chopped)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper to create the marinade.
- Coat chicken breasts thoroughly with the marinade and let them sit for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight in the refrigerator.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (375°F). Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
- Grill the marinated chicken for about 6-8 minutes per side until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm with fresh salad or roasted vegetables.
Notes
- For extra flavor, marinate overnight.
- Feel free to substitute herbs like rosemary or oregano based on your preference.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 16 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast (approximately 6 oz)
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 120mg