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Perfect Lemon Zest Grilled Chicken – Easy & Juicy

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This lemon zest grilled chicken is juicy, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make with a simple marinade of olive oil, lemon, garlic, and oregano. Perfect for weeknight dinners or backyard gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs total)
  • 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon zest (from about 2 large lemons)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the chicken: Place chicken breasts on a cutting board. If thick, butterfly or pound to an even thickness of 1/2 to 3/4 inch. Pat dry with paper towels.
  2. Make the marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
  3. Marinate the chicken: Place chicken in a resealable bag or shallow dish. Pour marinade over chicken, coat well, and seal. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes and up to 2 hours.
  4. Preheat the grill: About 15 minutes before cooking, preheat grill to medium-high heat (400-450°F).
  5. Grill the chicken: Remove chicken from marinade, letting excess drip off. Place on hot grill. Close lid and cook 6-8 minutes per side, until golden brown with grill marks and internal temperature reaches 165°F.
  6. Rest the chicken: Transfer to a cutting board and let rest 5-10 minutes before slicing.
  7. Slice and serve: Slice against the grain and serve warm.

Notes

Do not over-marinate (max 2 hours) or the acid will make the chicken mushy. Use fresh lemon zest and garlic for best flavor. Let the chicken rest before slicing to keep it juicy. For extra flavor, brush with reserved fresh marinade during the last minute of grilling.

Nutrition

Keywords: lemon chicken, grilled chicken, lemon zest chicken, easy chicken recipe, juicy chicken, weeknight dinner

Find it online: https://swooshspice.com/perfect-lemon-zest-grilled-chicken-easy-and-juicy/