Description
A simple, juicy grilled chicken breast recipe featuring a bright charred lemon topping. This weeknight-friendly meal is ready in 20 minutes, costs under $10, and requires only basic pantry ingredients.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs / 680g)
- 2 large lemons
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano (optional)
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Prep the chicken: Place chicken breasts between plastic wrap or in a bag and pound to an even ¾-inch thickness using a meat mallet or rolling pin.
- Make the marinade: In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, juice of one lemon, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and oregano (if using). Add chicken and coat completely. Let sit for at least 10 minutes (or up to 4 hours).
- Preheat the grill: Heat grill to medium-high (400°F / 200°C). Clean grates and brush with oil to prevent sticking.
- Grill the chicken: Place chicken on grill. Cook undisturbed for 6-7 minutes until grill marks form. Flip and cook for another 5-7 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove from grill.
- Char the lemon: While chicken rests, cut the second lemon in half crosswise. Place cut-side down on grill (or in a hot cast iron skillet) for 2-3 minutes until blackened and caramelized.
- Rest and serve: Transfer chicken to a cutting board and rest for 5 minutes. Slice against the grain, squeeze charred lemon juice over top, and garnish with parsley if desired.
Notes
Pounding the chicken to an even thickness is crucial for preventing dry edges. Do not overcrowd the grill; cook in batches if necessary. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes to retain juices. The charred lemon is essential for the flavor profile; do not skip charring it until blackened. Chicken thighs can be substituted by increasing cooking time by 2-3 minutes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast wit
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3
- Sodium: 450
- Fat: 18
- Saturated Fat: 3
- Carbohydrates: 8
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 35
Keywords: grilled chicken, charred lemon, weeknight dinner, easy chicken recipe, healthy dinner, gluten-free, dairy-free, low-carb, budget meal