Garlic, Lemon, and Herb Grilled Chicken Breasts

This recipe for Garlic, Lemon, and Herb Grilled Chicken Breasts is perfect for summer grilling! Simple to prepare and bursting with flavor, this dish elevates any meal. Ideal for barbecues, family dinners, or meal prep, it’s sure to become a favorite. The combination of garlic and lemon creates a vibrant taste that pairs wonderfully with fresh herbs.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, you can have this dish ready in no time.
• Flavorful Marinade: The blend of garlic, lemon juice, and herbs infuses the chicken with delicious flavors.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it hot off the grill or use leftovers in salads or wraps for quick meals.
• Healthy Choice: Packed with protein and low in carbohydrates, it fits perfectly into various diets.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a batch ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Ziploc bag or plastic container
• Colander

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Essential for getting those beautiful char marks while enhancing the flavor through grilling.
• Mixing bowl: Perfect for combining your marinade ingredients easily.
• Whisk: Helps to mix the marinade thoroughly, ensuring an even distribution of flavors.
• Colander: Useful for draining excess marinade before grilling to prevent flare-ups.

Ingredients

• 6 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 3 T fresh-squeezed lemon juice
• 1 T garlic powder
• 2 tsp. Spike Seasoning (or another all-purpose seasoning blend)
• 2 tsp. dried basil
• 1 tsp. dried oregano
• 1 tsp. onion powder
• 1/2 tsp. dried sage
• 1/2 tsp. black pepper

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Garlic, Lemon, and Herb Grilled Chicken Breasts

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Trim any visible fat from the chicken breasts. If some are thicker than others, trim them to make even thickness. Save scraps in the freezer for homemade chicken stock.

Step 2: Score the Chicken Breasts

Cut short shallow slits crosswise down each chicken breast. This helps the marinade penetrate better.

Step 3: Make the Marinade

In a mixing bowl, whisk together:
1. Olive oil
2. Fresh-squeezed lemon juice
3. Garlic powder
4. Spike Seasoning (or another all-purpose seasoning)
5. Dried basil
6. Dried oregano
7. Onion powder
8. Dried sage
9. Black pepper

Step 4: Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken in a Ziploc bag or a plastic container in a single layer. Pour in the marinade and seal tightly. Marinate in the fridge for at least 5-6 hours—preferably up to 8 hours.

Step 5: Preheat the Grill

Clean your grill and spray it with non-stick grill spray or brush with oil. Preheat to medium-high heat.

Step 6: Grill the Chicken

Remove chicken from marinade using a colander to drain excess liquid:
1. Place chicken top side down on an angle against grill grates.
2. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until nice grill marks form.
3. Rotate each breast to create criss-cross marks; cook for another 3-4 minutes.

Step 7: Flip and Cook Through

Once you have good grill marks:
1. Flip each piece over.
2. Cook on this side for about 4-6 minutes more until firm but not hard when pressed.
3. Ensure internal temperature reaches at least 165F/74C using an instant-read meat thermometer if available.

Step 8: Serve Hot

Enjoy your delicious garlic, lemon, and herb grilled chicken breasts right off the grill! Leftovers are great in salads or wraps with avocado and salsa or inside low-carb pita bread with Tzatziki sauce.

This recipe is guaranteed to impress everyone at your next gathering! Enjoy!

How to Serve Garlic, Lemon, and Herb Grilled Chicken Breasts

Serving Garlic, Lemon, and Herb Grilled Chicken Breasts can elevate your meal experience. This dish is versatile and can be paired with various sides or toppings to create different flavor profiles.

Fresh Salads

• Mixed Greens Salad: Toss together arugula, spinach, and cherry tomatoes with a light vinaigrette.
• Greek Salad: Combine cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, olives, and feta cheese for a refreshing option.

Grain Bowls

• Quinoa Bowl: Serve the chicken over quinoa mixed with roasted vegetables and a drizzle of olive oil.
• Rice Pilaf: Pair with lemon-infused rice pilaf for a hearty complement.

Lettuce Wraps

• Lettuce Wraps: Use large lettuce leaves to wrap the grilled chicken along with avocado and salsa for a low-carb option.
• Herbed Yogurt Sauce: Top with herbed yogurt for added creaminess.

Sandwiches

• Grilled Chicken Sandwich: Place sliced chicken on a toasted bun with lettuce, tomato, and your favorite sauce.
• Pita Pockets: Fill whole grain pita bread with sliced chicken and tzatziki sauce for a Mediterranean twist.

How to Perfect Garlic, Lemon, and Herb Grilled Chicken Breasts

To achieve juicy and flavorful Garlic, Lemon, and Herb Grilled Chicken Breasts every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Marinate adequately: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 5-6 hours to enhance flavor absorption.
• Uniform thickness: Ensure all chicken breasts are of similar thickness for even cooking.
• Preheat your grill: A hot grill helps achieve perfect grill marks while locking in moisture.
• Use a meat thermometer: Check that your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.
• Let it rest: After grilling, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing to retain juices.
• Experiment with herbs: Feel free to add fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for an extra burst of flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Garlic, Lemon, and Herb Grilled Chicken Breasts

Pairing side dishes with Garlic, Lemon, and Herb Grilled Chicken Breasts can enhance the overall meal. Here are some delicious options to consider.

1. Grilled Vegetables: Zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus tossed in olive oil make a colorful side.
2. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and complements the flavors beautifully.
3. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with garlic powder are always a hit.
4. Couscous Salad: Light couscous mixed with herbs and lemon juice provides a refreshing contrast.
5. Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread on the side to soak up any juices from the chicken.
6. Steamed Broccoli: Simple steamed broccoli adds nutrition without overpowering the main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Marinating chicken can be tricky. Here are some common mistakes that can affect the flavor and texture of your Garlic, Lemon, and Herb Grilled Chicken Breasts.

• Skipping the Marinade: Not marinating the chicken long enough will result in bland flavor. Aim for at least 5-6 hours for best results.
• Using a Dirty Grill: A dirty grill can lead to sticking and uneven cooking. Always clean your grill before cooking to ensure perfect grill marks.
• Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking chicken too long can make it dry. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; aim for 165F/74C.
• Ignoring Thickness: Unevenly thick chicken breasts can cook inconsistently. Trim them to an even thickness for uniform cooking.
• Not Letting Chicken Rest: Cutting into grilled chicken immediately can cause juices to run out. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container.
• It will last for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Garlic, Lemon, and Herb Grilled Chicken Breasts

• Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, where they can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating Garlic, Lemon, and Herb Grilled Chicken Breasts

• Oven: Preheat to 350F (175C). Place chicken on a baking sheet and cover with foil; heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in short intervals (30 seconds) until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or broth and cover; cook for about 5 minutes until heated.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Garlic, Lemon, and Herb Grilled Chicken Breasts more flavorful?

Adding fresh herbs or different spices to the marinade can enhance flavor. Consider using fresh garlic instead of garlic powder for a stronger taste.

Can I use bone-in chicken instead?

Yes, you can use bone-in chicken, but adjust the cooking time as it will take longer to cook through compared to boneless breasts.

What side dishes pair well with Garlic, Lemon, and Herb Grilled Chicken Breasts?

This dish pairs well with grilled vegetables, salads, or quinoa. The bright flavors complement light sides perfectly.

How do I store leftovers of Garlic, Lemon, and Herb Grilled Chicken Breasts?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or freeze them for longer storage.

Can I customize this recipe?

Absolutely! You can add different herbs like thyme or rosemary or adjust the acidity by using lime juice instead of lemon juice.

Final Thoughts

Garlic, Lemon, and Herb Grilled Chicken Breasts are not only delicious but also versatile! This recipe is perfect for summer grilling and can easily be customized with your favorite herbs and spices. Enjoy leftovers in salads or wraps for a quick meal any day of the week!