Are you looking for a simple yet flavorful meal that will delight your taste buds? If so, you’ll love this grilled lemon pepper chicken recipe. This dish is easy to make and perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a weekend barbecue with friends and family.
Ingredients
To make this grilled lemon pepper chicken recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves, chopped
Directions
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, black pepper, salt, garlic, and thyme.
- Place the chicken breasts in a large ziplock bag and pour the marinade over the chicken. Seal the bag and massage the chicken to coat it evenly with the marinade. Marinate the chicken in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the remaining marinade.
- Place the chicken on the grill and cook for 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165┬░F.
- Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Tips for Success
- Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the best flavor.
- Don’t marinate the chicken for too long, or the acid in the lemon juice will start to break down the proteins and make the chicken tough.
- If you don’t have a grill, you can also cook the chicken in a skillet on the stovetop or in the oven.
- Make sure to let the chicken rest before slicing it. This allows the juices to redistribute and makes for a juicier and more flavorful meal.
Serving Suggestions
This grilled lemon pepper chicken recipe pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Here are some ideas:
- Grilled vegetables, such as zucchini, eggplant, or bell peppers
- Roasted potatoes or sweet potatoes
- Rice pilaf or quinoa salad
- Green salad with a lemon vinaigrette
- Garlic bread or dinner rolls
Conclusion
This grilled lemon pepper chicken recipe is a great addition to your recipe collection. It’s simple to make, packed with flavor, and versatile enough to pair with a variety of side dishes. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a crowd, this dish is sure to please. So fire up your grill and give it a try!
