Lemon Garlic Marinade for Chicken
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour (marinating time)
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Category: Chicken Breast
Servings: 4
Description:
This Lemon Garlic Marinade for Chicken is a simple, flavorful way to enhance your chicken breasts. While the exact origin of the recipe is unknown, its success in the kitchen speaks for itself. The marinade can be easily made ahead of time and stored in the freezer, making it a convenient choice for busy days. Simply throw your chicken breasts into a Ziploc bag, add the marinade, freeze, and when you’re ready for a quick meal, thaw and grill. Perfectly marinated chicken can be enjoyed on its own or served atop a refreshing Caesar salad.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Garlic, minced | 2 cloves |
| Olive oil | 4 tablespoons |
| Fresh parsley, chopped | 2 tablespoons |
| Lemon juice | 3 tablespoons |
| Black pepper | 1/8 teaspoon |
| Boneless, skinless chicken breasts | 1.5 pounds |
Nutritional Information (per serving):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 319 kcal |
| Fat | 18 g |
| Saturated Fat | 2.8 g |
| Cholesterol | 109 mg |
| Sodium | 199.2 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 1.4 g |
| Fiber | 0.1 g |
| Sugar | 0.3 g |
| Protein | 36.3 g |
Instructions:
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Prepare the Chicken: Begin by placing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts in a large Ziploc bag. This will help the marinade evenly coat the chicken for maximum flavor.
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Make the Marinade: In a small mixing bowl, combine the minced garlic, olive oil, fresh parsley, lemon juice, and black pepper. Stir well to ensure all the ingredients are fully incorporated. This mixture will serve as the base for your marinade.
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Marinate the Chicken: Pour the freshly mixed marinade over the chicken breasts in the Ziploc bag. Seal the bag tightly, ensuring that the chicken is well-coated in the marinade. Let the chicken marinate for at least 1 hour. For an even more intense flavor, marinate it longer, up to 4 hours if you prefer.
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Grill the Chicken: After marinating, cook the chicken as desired. The most popular method is grilling, which enhances the flavor even further. Grill the chicken over medium heat for approximately 6-7 minutes per side or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
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Serve and Enjoy: Serve the grilled chicken immediately, or get creative by adding it to salads, sandwiches, or wraps. It’s especially delicious on a Caesar salad, giving a fresh twist to a classic dish.
Why You’ll Love It:
This Lemon Garlic Marinade is perfect for anyone looking for a quick yet flavorful meal. With minimal prep time and simple ingredients, it’s a versatile and easy way to elevate your chicken. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or prepping meals for the week ahead, this marinade is your new go-to for tender, juicy chicken with a burst of citrus and herb flavor. It’s also a great fit for those following low-carb or high-protein diets, providing a healthy yet delicious option for any meal.
