Description
Lemon Herb Chicken sizzles with Mediterranean charm, packed with protein and flavor that makes dinner feel like a quick culinary vacation. Fresh herbs and zesty citrus combine to create a lean protein powerhouse that turns your weeknight meal into something special.
Ingredients
Scale
Proteins:
- 1.5 lbs (680 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Herbs and Seasonings:
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Liquids and Fats:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
- 1 lb (454 g) mixed vegetables (e.g., broccoli florets, carrot sticks, bell pepper strips)
Instructions
- Fire up the grill to medium-high heat, aiming for a temperature around 400-425°F (204-218°C).
- Create a zesty marinade by combining 2 tablespoons olive oil, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1 teaspoon dried thyme, salt, and black pepper in a mixing bowl.
- Submerge 1.5 lbs of boneless, skinless chicken breasts into the marinade, ensuring every surface gets thoroughly coated. Allow the chicken to soak up flavors for 15-20 minutes at room temperature.
- Clean and lightly oil your grill grates to prevent sticking and help create beautiful char marks.
- Carefully transfer marinated chicken to the hot grill, positioning breasts diagonally across the grates for professional-looking sear lines.
- Grill chicken for 6-7 minutes on the first side, watching for golden-brown edges and nice caramelization.
- Flip chicken and continue grilling another 5-7 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when checked with a meat thermometer.
- While chicken cooks, steam 1 lb of mixed vegetables like broccoli florets, carrot sticks, and bell pepper strips until they’re vibrant and tender-crisp.
- Remove chicken from grill and let rest for 3-4 minutes to redistribute internal juices.
- Plate grilled chicken alongside your steamed vegetable medley and serve immediately.
Notes
- Marinate chicken for maximum flavor by letting it sit in the herb mixture for up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
- Check chicken doneness using a meat thermometer to ensure safe internal temperature without overcooking.
- For a gluten-free and low-carb version, serve with roasted zucchini or cauliflower instead of traditional sides.
- If grilling isn’t possible, bake the chicken in a 400°F oven for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through cooking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12-16 minutes
- Category: Chicken
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3
- Calories: 310 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 9 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 35 g
- Cholesterol: 90 mg