Lemon herb grilled chicken has become my absolute go-to for a quick and incredibly flavorful weeknight dinner. I remember the first time I made it for friends; the aroma wafting from the grill was so inviting, and everyone raved about how juicy and bright the chicken was. The combination of zesty lemon and fragrant herbs truly transforms simple chicken breasts into something special. It’s honestly the easiest lemon herb grilled chicken recipe I’ve found, and it always gets requests for seconds. Get ready to impress yourself and your loved ones, because we’re about to make some delicious grilled chicken with lemon and herbs. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken
- Incredible flavor: The lemon and herb combination is bright, zesty, and utterly delicious.
- Super quick prep time: You can have this marinated and ready for the grill in about 15 minutes.
- Healthy and satisfying: This is a wonderfully healthy lemon herb grilled chicken option, packed with protein.
- Budget-friendly: Chicken breasts are often on sale, making this an economical choice for feeding a family.
- Family-approved: Even picky eaters will love the juicy, tender texture and familiar flavors.
- Versatile meal: It pairs perfectly with almost any side dish you can imagine.
- A truly healthy lemon herb grilled chicken meal that doesn’t compromise on taste.
- Easy to customize: Feel free to swap out herbs or add your favorite spices to the marinade.
Ingredients for Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken
Gather these simple ingredients for a truly delicious meal. The combination of fresh lemon, aromatic herbs, and quality olive oil creates the perfect flavor base, essentially acting as your lemon herb chicken seasoning. I love using fresh herbs whenever possible because their brightness really shines through, especially the lemon zest, which adds a wonderful floral note. The chicken broth is key for making the couscous light and fluffy, while the cherry tomatoes and cucumber add a lovely pop of freshness and color.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts – about 6-8 oz each
- 1 cup couscous – a quick-cooking grain
- 2 cups chicken broth or water – for cooking the couscous
- 1 lemon (juiced and zested) – use the zest for extra flavor
- 3 tablespoons olive oil – extra virgin for the best taste
- 2 cloves garlic (minced) – fresh garlic is a must
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped) – adds a clean, green flavor
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil (chopped) – sweet and slightly peppery
- 1 teaspoon salt – to enhance all the flavors
- ½ teaspoon black pepper – freshly ground is best
- ½ teaspoon paprika – for a hint of color and mild sweetness
- Optional: 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
- Optional: ½ cup cucumber (diced)
How to Make Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken
Follow these simple steps to create a fantastic meal. This recipe is a great example of how to make lemon herb grilled chicken that’s bursting with fresh flavors.
- Step 1: Marinate the Chicken. In a medium bowl, whisk together the fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and paprika. This mixture serves as the best lemon herb grilled chicken marinade. Place your chicken breasts into the bowl, ensuring they are fully coated. Let them marinate for at least 15 minutes at room temperature. For an even deeper flavor, you can marinate it in the refrigerator for up to an hour.
- Step 2: Prepare the Couscous. While the chicken marinates, get your couscous ready. In a medium saucepan, bring the 2 cups chicken broth or water to a rolling boil. Stir in the 1 cup couscous, then immediately cover the saucepan and remove it from the heat. Let it sit undisturbed for about 5 minutes.
- Step 3: Fluff the Couscous. After the couscous has steamed, uncover the pot. Use a fork to gently fluff the grains, separating them. Stir in the chopped fresh parsley and basil. If you’re adding the optional cherry tomatoes and cucumber, fold them in now for a vibrant and fresh couscous salad.
- Step 4: Grill the Chicken. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully remove the chicken breasts from the marinade, letting any excess drip off. Place the chicken on the hot grill grates. Grill for approximately 6-7 minutes per side. You’re looking for lovely grill marks and for the chicken to be cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) when checked with a meat thermometer.
- Step 5: Rest the Chicken. This is a crucial step for juicy chicken! Once the chicken is cooked, transfer it to a clean cutting board. Tent it loosely with foil and let it rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring every bite is moist and tender.
- Step 6: Serve and Enjoy. Slice the rested chicken breasts against the grain. Serve the delicious slices over a generous portion of the prepared lemon herb couscous. Garnish with extra fresh herbs or a wedge of lemon for an extra burst of brightness.
Pro Tips for the Best Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken
I’ve learned a few tricks over the years to make sure this lemon herb grilled chicken is always perfect.
- Don’t skip the marinade time; it really infuses the chicken with flavor and helps tenderize it.
- Ensure your grill is clean and properly preheated to medium-high heat for those beautiful grill marks and even cooking.
- Letting the chicken rest after grilling is non-negotiable! It keeps the chicken juicy and tender.
- For extra zest, add a bit more lemon zest to the couscous or use fresh lemon wedges for serving.
What’s the secret to perfect Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken?
The real secret is the balance of fresh ingredients, especially the best herbs for grilled chicken like parsley and basil, combined with the bright acidity of lemon. Marinating for at least 15 minutes is key for juicy, flavorful results. For more delicious recipes, check out our full recipe collection.
Can I make Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken ahead of time?
Yes, you can marinate the chicken up to an hour ahead, or even overnight for deeper flavor. The couscous can also be prepared a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. For other quick meal ideas, consider our turkey meatloaf recipe.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken?
Avoid overcooking the chicken by using a meat thermometer to check for 165°F (75°C). Also, don’t overcrowd the grill; cook in batches if necessary to ensure proper searing and prevent steaming. Learning about safe food temperatures is crucial, and you can find more information on food safety guidelines.
Best Ways to Serve Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken
This vibrant chicken is incredibly versatile! For a light and refreshing meal, I love serving it alongside a Greek salad with feta and olives, or with a side of quinoa. It’s a fantastic example of how simple grilled chicken with lemon and herbs can be elevated with the right accompaniments. Another favorite pairing of mine is with roasted asparagus and creamy polenta; the earthy asparagus and smooth polenta provide a lovely contrast to the bright, zesty chicken. Don’t forget a sprinkle of fresh parsley for that extra pop of color and flavor!
Nutrition Facts for Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken
Here are the estimated nutritional values for one serving of this delicious lemon herb grilled chicken, served with couscous.
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Fat: 16g
- Protein: 32g
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used and portion sizes. For more healthy options, explore our Zepbound weight loss recipes.
How to Store and Reheat Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken
Got delicious lemon herb grilled chicken leftovers? Lucky you! Once the chicken has cooled completely, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. It’s perfect for packing in lunches or whipping up a quick dinner later in the week. If you want to freeze it for longer storage, wrap the cooled chicken tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, and pop it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen chicken, thaw it overnight in the fridge. To reheat, I love to gently warm it on the stovetop in a skillet over medium-low heat, or even pop it back on the grill for a few minutes to recapture that smoky flavor. You can also reheat it in the oven at 325°F (160°C) until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions About Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken
What are the best herbs for grilled chicken?
For this recipe, parsley and basil are fantastic, offering a fresh, slightly sweet flavor. However, you can also use rosemary, thyme, or oregano in your marinade. Experimenting with different combinations lets you create your own signature flavorful lemon herb grilled chicken breast.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
I usually marinate for at least 15 minutes at room temperature for a good flavor boost. If you have more time, marinating in the refrigerator for up to an hour, or even overnight, will result in an even more intensely flavored and tender chicken breast. For a different flavor profile, try our Korean BBQ meatballs.
Can I grill chicken breasts without marinating?
While marinating is highly recommended for the best flavor and tenderness, you can grill chicken breasts without it. You’ll want to season them generously with a good lemon herb chicken seasoning before grilling, and be extra careful not to overcook them, as they can dry out more easily.
What sides pair well with lemon herb grilled chicken?
This dish is so versatile! Besides couscous, I love serving it with a fresh Greek salad, grilled asparagus, roasted potatoes, or even a simple cucumber and tomato salad. The bright flavors of the chicken complement a wide variety of sides beautifully. For a great side dish, consider crispy roasted cauliflower.
Variations of Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken You Can Try
Looking to switch things up? This lemon herb grilled chicken is so adaptable! Here are a few ideas to keep things exciting.
- Dietary Swap: For a dairy-free or vegan option, use firm tofu or tempeh marinated in the same lemon herb mixture. Grill it just like the chicken! You can also make a zesty lemon herb grilled chicken variation using cauliflower steaks for a vegetarian delight.
- Cooking Method Change: No grill? No problem! You can achieve fantastic results by pan-searing the marinated chicken in a hot skillet or baking it in a 400°F (200°C) oven for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Flavor Boost: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade for a little heat, or include a teaspoon of Dijon mustard for a tangy kick. You could also add a sprig of fresh rosemary to the marinade for a more robust, earthy flavor.
- Lemon Herb Chicken Marinade Upgrade: Mix in finely chopped shallots or a tablespoon of capers into the marinade for an extra layer of complex flavor.
Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken: 4 Juicy Tips
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken with Couscous is a flavorful and nutritious dish featuring tender, juicy chicken marinated in lemon and herbs, grilled to perfection and served alongside fluffy couscous. It’s a simple yet impressive meal suitable for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup couscous
- 2 cups chicken broth or water
- 1 lemon (juiced and zested)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped)
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil (chopped)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Optional: 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
- Optional: ½ cup cucumber (diced)
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix together lemon juice, lemon zest, olive oil, garlic, salt, pepper, and paprika. Add the chicken breasts and coat them evenly with the marinade. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes.
- Prepare the Couscous: In a saucepan, bring chicken broth (or water) to a boil. Stir in the couscous, cover, and remove from heat. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until the couscous absorbs the liquid.
- Fluff the Couscous: After the couscous has rested, use a fork to fluff it. Add chopped parsley and basil to the couscous, mixing well. If desired, mix in halved cherry tomatoes and diced cucumber for added freshness.
- Grill the Chicken: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade, shaking off excess. Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Rest the Chicken: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute back into the meat.
- Serve: Slice the grilled chicken and serve it over a bed of the prepared couscous. Garnish with more fresh herbs or lemon wedges if desired.
Notes
- Use quality ingredients for the best flavor.
- Ensure your grill is preheated properly for a good sear.
- Adjust lemon zest to your taste preference.
- Marinate chicken for up to an hour or overnight for deeper flavors.
- Experiment with adding nuts or dried fruits to the couscous.
- This dish can be made ahead and is great for meal prep.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
- Chicken can be frozen without couscous for up to 3 months.
- Reheat chicken on a grill or stovetop until warmed through.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Fat: 16g
- Protein: 32g
