A sunny day, the smell of freshly cut grass, and friends gathered around a grill—Memorial Day is the start of summer fun. You can almost hear the sizzle of chicken hitting the grates as you dream about biting into succulent pieces of Memorial Day grilled lemon herb chicken. Juicy, tangy, and simply irresistible, this dish is not just food; it’s an experience that brings everyone together.
my family hosting an epic backyard BBQ last summer. The sun shone brightly as we gathered around the grill, laughter filling the air. As the aroma of lemon and herbs wafted through our yard, even the neighbors peeked over the fence! This grilled chicken became an instant favorite, proving that food can create unforgettable moments.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The ease of preparation makes this chicken a weeknight winner.
- Its zesty flavor profile dances on your taste buds with every bite.
- Visually appealing with its vibrant colors, it’s a feast for both eyes and stomach.
- Versatile enough for any occasion from picnics to potlucks or even a cozy dinner at home.
Sharing meals is what life is all about; I remember how everyone went back for seconds during that BBQ! Nothing like delicious food to bring smiles all around.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Aim for 3-4 pieces depending on your gathering size for juicy bites.
- Fresh Lemons: Use ripe lemons for their juice and zest; they add brightness to your dish.
- Fresh Garlic: Choose bulbs that feel firm; fresh garlic lends depth to flavors in marinades.
- Fresh Herbs (Thyme and Parsley): Opt for vibrant herbs that complement the zesty flavors beautifully.
- Olive Oil: A good-quality olive oil enhances richness while helping marinate flavors meld together.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that boost all other ingredients’ flavors without overpowering them.
- Lemon Zest: Adds a concentrated burst of citrus flavor; don’t skip this step!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prepare Your Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, chopped thyme, parsley leaves, salt, pepper, and lemon zest until well combined.
Marinate the Chicken: Place boneless chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag. Pour marinade over them and seal tightly. Allow it to rest in your fridge for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours for maximum flavor.
Preheat Your Grill: Light your grill over medium-high heat until it’s hot enough to sear but not too hot to burn everything. Aim for around 400°F (200°C).
Grill the Chicken: Place marinated chicken on the grill grates. Cook each side for about 6-8 minutes until beautifully charred and cooked through—160°F (70°C) internal temperature is your target.
Add Some Zest While Cooking!: Brush leftover marinade over the chicken while grilling to keep it moist and intensify those fresh flavors as it cooks.
Rest Before Serving: Once done grilling, remove chicken from heat and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing to allow juices to redistribute—nobody likes dry meat!
This Memorial Day grilled lemon herb chicken will steal the show at any gathering! Get ready to enjoy moments filled with laughter and joy while savoring every bite of this flavor-packed dish.
No doubt about it—this recipe will become a staple at all your summer celebrations!
You Must Know
- This Memorial Day Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken recipe is not just delicious; it’s a crowd-pleaser.
- The bright citrus flavor paired with fresh herbs makes it perfect for summer gatherings.
- Plus, it’s easy to make, ensuring you spend less time cooking and more time enjoying the festivities.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by marinating the chicken in the lemon herb mixture to enhance the flavor. Preheat your grill while the chicken soaks up all that goodness, then cook over medium-high heat for juicy results.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out herbs based on your preferences or what’s available. Experiment with different citrus juices or even add a spicy kick with red pepper flakes if you’re feeling adventurous.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on a skillet to maintain its juicy texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Marinate your chicken for at least two hours to maximize flavor absorption.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F for safety.
- Let it rest after grilling for juicy bites every time.
The first time I made this dish, my friends devoured it before I could even plate it! Their compliments made me realize how special this recipe is for gatherings.
FAQ
What can I serve with Memorial Day Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken?
Pair this chicken with grilled vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Can I use other meats instead of chicken?
Yes! This marinade works well with fish or turkey for a delicious alternative.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
Marinate your chicken for at least two hours, but overnight is even better for deeper flavor.
Memorial Day Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken
Memorial Day Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken is a zesty and juicy dish that elevates your summer BBQ, perfect for gatherings and easy to prepare!
- Total Time: 26 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 2 ripe lemons (juiced and zested)
- 4 cloves fresh garlic (minced)
- 2 tablespoons fresh thyme (chopped)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped)
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, thyme, parsley, salt, pepper, and lemon zest.
- Place chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag and pour marinade over them. Seal tightly and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F).
- Grill chicken for 6-8 minutes on each side until internal temperature reaches 160°F. Brush with leftover marinade while cooking.
- Remove from grill and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
Notes
- For added flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.
- Feel free to substitute thyme with rosemary or oregano based on your preference.
- Serve with grilled vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 16 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast (approximately 6 oz)
- Calories: 294
- Sugar: 0 g
- Sodium: 532 mg
- Fat: 17 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 3 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 31 g
- Cholesterol: 90 mg
