Grilled Lemon Garlic Chicken Recipe ππ
Overview:
Grilled Lemon Garlic Chicken is a delightful summer dish that perfectly complements a fresh salad. It’s a go-to favorite, especially before heading out for a lively game of soccer on a sunny day. With its zesty flavors and tender texture, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s quick and easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings. Let’s dive into the recipe and discover how to whip up this delicious dish in just 20 minutes!
Ingredients:
Quantity | Ingredient |
---|---|
4 | Boneless chicken breasts |
1 | Lemon juice |
2 cloves | Garlic |
1 tsp | Lemon pepper seasoning |
To taste | Salt and pepper |
Instructions:
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Prepare the Marinade: Start by mixing together the lemon juice, minced garlic, lemon pepper seasoning, salt, and pepper in a bowl. This flavorful marinade will infuse the chicken with zesty goodness and tenderize it beautifully.
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Marinate the Chicken: Place the boneless chicken breasts in a shallow dish or a resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated. For maximum flavor, allow the chicken to marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, or ideally, several hours. This step is crucial for achieving succulent, juicy chicken with a burst of citrusy flavor in every bite.
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Preheat the Grill: While the chicken is marinating, preheat your grill to medium heat. Make sure the grill grates are clean and lightly greased to prevent sticking.
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Grill the Chicken: Once the grill is hot and ready, carefully place the marinated chicken breasts onto the greased grill grates. Grill the chicken for about 6-8 minutes on each side, or until it is cooked through and nicely charred on the outside. Use tongs to flip the chicken halfway through the cooking process, ensuring even cooking and those beautiful grill marks.
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Check for Doneness: To ensure the chicken is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165Β°F (75Β°C) when it’s done. Alternatively, you can make a small cut in the thickest part of the chicken to check if the juices run clear, indicating that it’s cooked through.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once the chicken is cooked to perfection, transfer it to a serving platter. Garnish with fresh lemon slices and chopped parsley for a vibrant touch. Grilled Lemon Garlic Chicken pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or your favorite side dishes. Serve it hot off the grill and watch as your family and friends devour every tender, flavorful bite.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 282.5
- Total Fat: 16.8g
- Saturated Fat: 4.3g
- Cholesterol: 92.8mg
- Sodium: 91.5mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 0.9g
- Dietary Fiber: 0.1g
- Sugar: 0.2g
- Protein: 30.3g
Recipe Notes:
- Variations: Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your taste preferences. You can add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or sprinkle some fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for an aromatic twist.
- Make-Ahead Tip: You can marinate the chicken ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before grilling. This makes it a convenient option for meal prep or entertaining guests.
- Grilling Tips: For perfectly juicy and flavorful chicken, avoid overcooking. Keep an eye on the grill and adjust the heat as needed to prevent burning. Remember to let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring maximum tenderness.
- Leftover Ideas: If you happen to have any leftovers (which is unlikely because this dish is so delicious!), you can slice the chicken and use it to make sandwiches, salads, or wraps for a quick and satisfying meal.
Conclusion:
Grilled Lemon Garlic Chicken is a simple yet sensational dish that captures the essence of summer in every mouthwatering bite. With its bright citrus flavors, savory garlic undertones, and juicy chicken perfection, this recipe is sure to become a staple on your menu rotation. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or enjoying a cozy dinner at home, this crowd-pleasing dish is guaranteed to delight your taste buds and leave you craving more. So fire up the grill, gather your ingredients, and get ready to savor the irresistible flavors of Grilled Lemon Garlic Chicken! ππ