Grilled Chicken Breast With Garlic Lemon Marinade
Description
This vibrant dish features tender chicken breasts marinated in a zesty blend of fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, olive oil, and black pepper. The marinade penetrates the meat, ensuring every bite is flavorful and moist, while the high heat of the grill creates a deliciously charred exterior. It is a perfect weeknight dinner that feels special enough for guests. Serve it alongside roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete Mediterranean-inspired meal. The simplicity of the ingredients allows the natural flavors of the chicken and citrus to shine through without overpowering the palate.Ingredients
Directions
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In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, black pepper, cumin (if using), and salt until well combined.
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Place chicken breasts in a shallow dish or a resealable plastic bag.
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Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are evenly coated on both sides.
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Cover the dish or seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for deeper flavor.
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Preheat your grill to medium-high heat or set your oven broiler to high.
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Remove chicken from the marinade, letting excess drip off.
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Grill chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or broil for 6-8 minutes per side, until the internal temperature reaches 165&# 194;°F (74ðC) and juices run clear.
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Remove from heat, let rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 6
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 216.6kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 15.6g24%
- Saturated Fat 2.2g12%
- Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
- Sodium 2446.5mg102%
- Total Carbohydrate 18.4g7%
- Dietary Fiber 1.6g7%
- Sugars 0.7g
- Protein 3.6g8%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Storage: Store leftover cooked chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Variation: For a Garlic-Herb Marinade, omit the cumin and reduce black pepper to 1/2 teaspoon. Add 1 teaspoon of dried thyme or oregano and 1/2 teaspoon of minced fresh rosemary to the marinade mixture.
Tip: For best results, pound chicken breasts to an even thickness before marinating to ensure uniform cooking.
Safety: Never reuse marinade that has touched raw chicken unless it is boiled first. Always use separate utensils for raw and cooked meat.