Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken is a summer staple at my house! 🍗🍋 It’s zesty, flavorful, and so juicy, you’ll want to make it every weekend. The fresh lemon and herb marinade gives the chicken an amazing burst of flavor, and grilling it gives it that perfect smoky touch. My family loves it for dinner, and my kids can’t get enough of it on their lunch sandwiches the next day!

It’s one of those recipes that’s so easy to make, yet it feels special every time. Plus, the marinade is super versatile—you can use it for chicken thighs, breasts, or even veggies. Trust me, once you try this, it’ll be your go-to grilled chicken recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Lemon Herb Chicken

This chicken is the perfect balance of fresh and savory. The lemon brings a bright, tangy flavor, while the herbs—like garlic, thyme, and rosemary—add depth and earthiness. And the grilling gives it that perfect charred, crispy outside with a tender, juicy inside. You’ll be licking your fingers after each bite!

What You’ll Need to Make Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
2 teaspoons lemon zest
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
Salt and pepper, to taste

How to Make Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken

Make the marinade: In a bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
Marinate the chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a resealable bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Seal the bag or cover the dish, and let the chicken marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes—1-2 hours is even better if you have the time!
Preheat the grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat. If you’re using a grill pan, heat it on the stove over medium-high.
Grill the chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade and grill for 6-8 minutes per side, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Serve: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes, then slice and serve with your favorite sides. I love it with a fresh salad, grilled veggies, or even mashed potatoes!

More Dessert

Fun Variations

This recipe is so versatile! You can switch up the herbs—try basil or oregano instead of rosemary and thyme. Want a little kick? Add red pepper flakes to the marinade. You can also marinate the chicken overnight for even more flavor. For a lighter twist, serve it with a side of quinoa or couscous.

Perfect for Summer Grilling

Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken is the perfect recipe for warm summer nights. It’s quick to make, full of flavor, and doesn’t require much cleanup. You can even throw some veggies on the grill while the chicken cooks for a complete meal. Whether you’re having a backyard BBQ or just grilling for the family, this dish will never disappoint!

FAQs

Can I use bone-in chicken?
Yes, you can! Bone-in chicken may need a little longer on the grill, about 10-12 minutes per side. Just make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Can I make the marinade ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the marinade and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just add the chicken when you’re ready to cook.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It also makes a great topping for salads or wraps the next day!
Can I grill the chicken indoors?
Yes! If you don’t have an outdoor grill, you can cook the chicken on a grill pan or in the oven. Just preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Can I use this marinade for other meats?
Definitely! This lemon herb marinade works great with pork, lamb, or even fish. Just adjust the cooking time depending on the meat.