Elevate your next backyard cookout with this Grilled Lemon Chicken Marinade inspired by Ina Garten—a delicious blend of zesty citrus and Mediterranean herbs. Featuring freshly squeezed lemon juice, fragrant lemon zest, and aromatic garlic, this simple yet flavorful marinade permeates tender, juicy chicken breasts with vibrant flavor. A touch of fresh thyme and a balance of kosher salt and black pepper bring sophistication to every bite. After marinating to perfection, the chicken is grilled to a golden char, locking in its succulence while delivering a smoky finish. Ready in just 30 minutes (plus marinating time), this recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or summer parties. Serve with a squeeze of fresh lemon wedges for a bright, tangy finish that's sure to delight!
In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, freshly squeezed lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, chopped thyme, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper to create the marinade.
Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure all pieces are coated evenly.
Seal the bag or cover the dish, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or up to overnight for maximum flavor.
Preheat a grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent the chicken from sticking.
Remove the chicken from the marinade, shaking off any excess. Discard the remaining marinade.
Grill the chicken breasts for 6-8 minutes per side, or until they are fully cooked and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Transfer the grilled chicken to a platter, cover loosely with foil, and let rest for 5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.
Serve the grilled lemon chicken with fresh lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of citrus flavor.
Calories |
2208 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 137.6 g | 176% | |
| Saturated Fat | 24.3 g | 122% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 10.6 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 592 mg | 197% | |
| Sodium | 1114 mg | 48% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 15.1 g | 5% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 3.8 g | 14% | |
| Total Sugars | 4.8 g | ||
| Protein | 217.4 g | 435% | |
| Vitamin D | 2.3 mcg | 11% | |
| Calcium | 136 mg | 10% | |
| Iron | 7.8 mg | 43% | |
| Potassium | 2064 mg | 44% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.