Description
A vibrant and incredibly juicy grilled chicken recipe infused with fresh lemon, garlic, and oregano, perfect for any meal.
Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1/4 cup olive oil
Juice of 1 large lemon (about 3-4 tablespoons)
Zest of 1 large lemon
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish, optional)
Lemon wedges (for serving, optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to combine.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. If chicken breasts are very thick, pound them lightly to an even 3/4-inch thickness. Place chicken in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over it. Ensure chicken is fully coated. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for best flavor. Do not marinate longer than 6 hours.
Step 3: Preheat the Grill: Preheat your outdoor grill or indoor grill pan to medium-high heat (about 400°F / 200°C). Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
Step 4: Grill the Chicken: Remove chicken from the marinade, discarding any remaining marinade. Place chicken breasts on the hot grill. Grill for 5-7 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) for chicken breasts when checked with a meat thermometer. Cook time may vary based on chicken thickness and grill temperature.
Step 5: Rest the Chicken: Once cooked, transfer the grilled chicken to a clean cutting board. Tent loosely with foil and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken tender and moist.
Step 6: Serve: Slice the chicken if desired, garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro, and serve immediately with fresh lemon wedges for an extra burst of citrus flavor.
Notes
For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade for a subtle kick. This chicken is also excellent sliced and added to salads or sandwiches.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 380mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 95mg