This Grilled Lemon Pepper Chicken is all about fresh flavors! It’s juicy, tender, and packed with zesty lemon and a dash of pepper that really wakes up your taste buds.
I love making this on sunny days, and it’s perfect for a backyard BBQ. Serve it with a salad or some grilled veggies, and you’ve got a tasty meal that everyone will enjoy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for grilling. If you want less meat, chicken thighs can be a juicy choice. They’re flavorful and tend to stay moist even if grilled a little longer.
Olive Oil: This is the base of your marinade, providing moisture. If you’re looking for a flavor twist, try avocado oil or even sesame oil for some nuttiness.
Lemons: Fresh lemons are crucial for that bright flavor. If you can’t get fresh ones, bottled lemon juice can work in a pinch, but fresh juice always tastes better. I also love adding lemon zest for a more intense citrus punch.
Black Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper gives a stronger flavor than pre-ground. If you like heat, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes or even a dash of cayenne for some spice.
Herbs: Dried oregano and thyme are classic choices, but feel free to mix in your favorites! Basil or rosemary can also bring different dimensions to the dish.
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken Stays Juicy on the Grill?
Grilling can dry out chicken if you’re not careful. Here are some tips to keep it juicy:
- Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes—1-2 hours is best. This not only adds flavor but keeps it moist.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high. If the grill is too hot, the outside will burn before the inside cooks through.
- Flip the chicken only once on the grill. This helps to make those beautiful grill marks and allows the juices to stay inside.
- Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. It should reach 165°F (75°C) for safety and perfect doneness.
- Let the chicken rest after grilling. This step really allows the juices to settle, making each bite tender and flavorful.
How to Make Grilled Lemon Pepper Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 lemons (1 for juice, 1 sliced for garnish)
- 2 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
- Fresh parsley or dried herbs, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 15-20 minutes for grilling. Allow additional time of about 30 minutes to 2 hours for marinating. In total, you’re looking at about 1 hour from start to finish, plus grilling time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
Start by taking a small bowl and combine the olive oil, juice from 1 lemon, black pepper, salt, oregano, garlic powder, and dried thyme (if you’re using it). Mix everything together very well until it forms a tasty marinade!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Next, grab a shallow dish or a zip-lock bag and place the chicken breasts inside. Pour your marinade over the chicken, making sure every piece is nicely coated. Cover the dish or seal the bag and pop it in the fridge. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, but if you can, let it sit for 1-2 hours to enhance the flavor even more!
3. Prepare to Grill:
Once the chicken has marinated, it’s time to grill! Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Then, take the chicken out of the marinade and shake off any extra marinade before placing it on the grill.
4. Grill the Chicken:
Cook the chicken for about 6-8 minutes on each side. You want to grill them until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and you see those lovely grill marks. This is the moment for deliciousness!
5. Rest and Serve:
Once grilled, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This step is super important as it helps the juices redistribute inside the chicken. After resting, serve your chicken with fresh lemon slices on top and sprinkle some extra black pepper and herbs if you like.
6. Optional Sides:
For a delightful meal, consider serving your grilled lemon pepper chicken alongside some grilled asparagus and a fresh salad with cherry tomatoes. It’s a perfect complement!
Enjoy your flavorful and juicy grilled chicken with that zesty lemon pepper taste!
Can I Use Other Cuts of Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While boneless, skinless chicken breasts are popular for grilling, you can also use thighs or drumsticks. Just be aware that cooking times may vary slightly since these cuts usually take longer to reach the safe internal temperature.
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Lemons?
No problem! If you’re in a pinch, you can substitute with bottled lemon juice. Use about 2-3 tablespoons to replace the juice of one lemon, but keep in mind fresh lemons provide the best flavor.
Can I Marinate the Chicken Overnight?
Yes, marinating overnight is a great idea! It allows the flavors to really penetrate the chicken, resulting in a more flavorful dish. Just be careful not to marinate for too long (over 24 hours) as the acid in the lemon juice can make the chicken mushy.
How Should I Store Leftover Grilled Chicken?
Store leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, use the microwave or warm it gently on the stove with a splash of chicken broth or water to keep it moist.
