Description
A classic, flavorful grilled chicken recipe featuring bright lemon and aromatic herbs, perfect for any backyard BBQ. This is one of the best chicken on the grill recipes for a juicy, tender result every time.
Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each), or 6-8 chicken thighs
1/4 cup olive oil
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (from 1-2 lemons)
1 tablespoon lemon zest
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, thyme, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to combine all ingredients for these chicken on the grill recipes.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts or thighs into the marinade, ensuring each piece is fully coated. Cover the bowl or transfer to a resealable bag. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for optimal flavor (overnight for chicken thighs).
Step 3: Preheat the Grill: About 15-20 minutes before grilling, preheat your grill to medium-high heat (400-450°F or 200-230°C). Clean the grill grates thoroughly with a wire brush and lightly oil them to prevent sticking.
Step 4: Grill the Chicken: Remove chicken from the marinade, letting excess drip off. Place the chicken pieces directly on the hot grill grates. Grill for 5-7 minutes per side for chicken breasts, or 6-8 minutes per side for chicken thighs, until an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) is reached and juices run clear.
Step 5: Rest and Serve: Transfer the grilled chicken to a clean cutting board or platter. Cover loosely with foil and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing or serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring tender and juicy results for your chicken on the grill recipes.
Notes
For even cooking, especially with chicken breasts, pound them to an even thickness before marinating. Always preheat your grill thoroughly and oil the grates to prevent sticking. Resting the chicken after grilling is crucial for juicy results in all chicken on the grill recipes.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Category: Chicken
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 breast (approx. 6 oz)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 320 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 3 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 38 g
- Cholesterol: 105 mg