Go Back

Marinated Grilled Chicken Breast

This dish features chicken breasts marinated overnight in a vibrant mix of lemon juice, garlic, and fresh herbs, which tenderizes the meat and infuses it with bright, aromatic flavors. Grilled to perfection, the chicken develops beautiful grill marks and a smoky, tangy crust, remaining juicy inside with a tender texture. The result is a flavorful, visually appealing main course perfect for summer cookouts or weeknight dinners.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

  • 4 pieces chicken breasts preferably skinless and boneless
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil good quality for best flavor
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice about 2 lemons
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh herbs such as thyme or rosemary, chopped
  • to taste salt and pepper adjust to preference

Equipment

  • Grill or grill pan
  • Tongs
  • Sharp knife
  • Meat thermometer
  • Small bowl

Method
 

  1. Pound each chicken breast to an even thickness of about 1.5 inches using a sharp knife or meat mallet. This helps ensure uniform cooking and juiciness.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, minced garlic, chopped herbs, olive oil, salt, and pepper to create the marinade. You’ll notice it coming together with a bright, fragrant aroma.
  3. Place the chicken breasts in a large resealable bag or shallow dish, then pour the marinade over them, ensuring each piece is well coated. Cover or seal and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, ideally overnight, to allow the flavors to penetrate and tenderize the meat.
  4. Preheat your grill or grill pan to high heat, aiming for about 200°C / 390°F. Lightly oil the grates or pan to prevent sticking, then carefully place the chicken breasts on the hot surface.
  5. Cook the chicken for about 5-6 minutes on one side, until you see deep grill marks and a slight char. Then, flip using tongs and cook for another 5-6 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 75°C / 165°F.
  6. During the last minute of grilling, optionally brush the chicken with a little leftover marinade for extra flavor and caramelization. Keep a close eye to avoid burning.
  7. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate and let it rest for 5 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat moist and tender.
  8. Slice the chicken against the grain into strips or serve whole, garnished with a squeeze of fresh lemon or additional herbs for a bright finishing touch.
  9. Enjoy your flavorful, juicy grilled chicken, perfect alongside salads, rice, or grilled vegetables.