This grilled lemon pepper chicken is super tasty and easy to make. The juicy chicken is bursting with zesty lemon and a sprinkle of pepper for extra flavor!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken is ideal for this recipe. If you’re looking for quick cooking, consider chicken thighs; they’re juicier. For a lighter option, try using turkey cutlets instead.
Olive Oil: This is a great base for your marinade. You can swap it with avocado oil if you prefer a higher smoke point, or any other light cooking oil you have on hand.
Lemon Pepper Seasoning: If you don’t have lemon pepper, mix black pepper with lemon zest and a little salt as a substitute. It keeps that fresh citrus kick!
Dried Oregano: Italian seasoning can replace oregano in a pinch. Fresh herbs are even better, if you have them on hand!
How Can You Make Sure Your Chicken is Juicy and Flavorful?
Marinating the chicken is key to keeping it juicy and enhancing its flavor. Here’s how to get the most out of your marinade:
- Mix olive oil and seasonings in a bowl as described but don’t rush! Let it sit for a few minutes to meld.
- Make sure to coat the chicken thoroughly in the marinade before sealing it in a bag. Massage it gently!
- Let the chicken marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. The longer, the better—up to a few hours if you can!
After grilling, don’t skip the resting step. It helps the juices redistribute, making your chicken even more tender!
How to Make Grilled Lemon Pepper Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons lemon pepper seasoning
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 lemon (zested and sliced)
For Garnishing:
- Fresh parsley or chives
- Lettuce leaves and cherry tomatoes (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes of prep time, and you should allow at least 30 minutes to 1 hour for marinating. Cooking the chicken on the grill will take about 10-14 minutes. In total, you’re looking at about 1 hour and 20 minutes from start to finish, depending on how long you marinate the chicken!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
Start by combining the olive oil, lemon pepper seasoning, dried oregano, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and lemon zest in a small bowl. Mix everything together nicely to create a flavorful marinade.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Next, take your chicken breasts and place them in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish, then pop it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to an hour. This marinating step is crucial for flavor!
3. Prepare the Grill:
While the chicken is marinating, preheat your grill to medium-high heat so it’s nice and hot when you’re ready to cook.
4. Grill the Chicken:
After marinating, take the chicken out of the fridge and let any extra marinade drip off. Once the grill is hot, place the chicken breasts on it, cooking for 5-7 minutes on one side. Look for the grill marks to know it’s time to flip!
5. Add Lemon Slices and Flip:
When it’s time to flip the chicken, add lemon slices on top of each piece. Grill for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and is no longer pink in the middle.
6. Let the Chicken Rest:
Once grilled to perfection, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps to keep the juices in!
7. Serve It Up:
Arrange the grilled chicken on a serving plate over a bed of lettuce leaves. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives, and include cherry tomatoes if you’re using them. For a little extra zing, feel free to squeeze some fresh lemon juice on top before serving. Enjoy your delicious Grilled Lemon Pepper Chicken!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s essential to thaw it completely before marinating. Thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight or place it in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water until it’s thawed.
Can I Marinate the Chicken Overnight?
Absolutely! Marinating the chicken overnight can enhance the flavor even more. Just make sure to store it in the refrigerator to keep it safe!
What Should I Serve with Grilled Lemon Pepper Chicken?
This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad. Grilled vegetables also make a great complement!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or on the stove over low heat, ensuring not to dry it out.
