Lemon Herb Chicken

Herb Lemon Chicken on a plate with lemons.

5 from 1 vote

The most tender quick marinated lemon herb chicken makes for the perfect meal. Elevate any meal with this chicken, it’s tender, flavorful and perfect for spring and summer with the bright citrus notes.

Prep Time20

Cook Time17

Total Time40

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American

Diet: Gluten Free

Servings:

Author: Bailey Rhatigan

Equipment

mixing bowls
lemon zester or microplane

Ingredients

2 lb chicken breasts boneless/skinless

Lemon Herb Marinade

¼ Tbsp olive oil
3 Tbsp lemon zest one lemon
⅓ cup lemon juice, fresh squeezed More as needed. About 2 lemons
2 Tbsp Dijon mustard
1 tsp each salt & pepper
1 Tbsp dried thyme
1 Tbsp dried parsley
1 tsp each garlic & onion powder
fresh chives, chopped for garnish

Optional Sides

roasted potatoes & broccoli
grilled asparagus
long grain white rice

Instructions

Place your chicken breasts or thighs in large mixing bowl or a gallon Ziplock bag with all ingredients for the Lemon Herb Marinade.
Mix the chicken well so everything is evenly coated and cover or seal the bag, squeezing out any excess air. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes and up to 24 hours (The more marinade time the better!)
Grill or sauté your chicken depending on your preference. Both instructions are included below.
For the grill:
Remove each chicken breast or thigh from the marinade place on a hot grill or grill pan over medium heat, discard any leftover marinade. Grill 5 to 7 minutes on each side or until fully done and reaching 165º internally. Cooking time may increase depending on the size of the chicken breast (Juices should run clear.)
If cooking on the stovetop:
Add 1 Tablespoons of olive oil to a skillet on the stove. Heat the oil over medium-high heat. Add each chicken breast to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for about 5-7 minutes. Flip the chicken. Cook for an additional 5 minutes. Cooking time may vary depending on chicken breasts sizes it should ready 165º internally to be fully cooked.
Serve the chicken hot off the grill with a side of roasted veggies and a slice of lemon. Garnish with fresh herbs of choice. I typically do chopped chives.

Notes

Don't overcook the chicken! Always use a digital thermometer for the best cooked chicken.
For the BEST juicy chicken, marinate for up to 24 hours. But really you can't go wrong.
Add your favorite seasonings to the chicken. Lemon pepper is versatile. Add Italian seasoning or red pepper flakes, even dried basil would be great.
If you want an extra "oomph" of flavor, brush a little soy sauce on the finished chicken before serving. YUM.

Nutritional facts do not include sides*

Nutrition