Grilled Lemon Chicken

Grilled Lemon Chicken: A Burst of Flavor on Your Plate

Are you looking for a delicious and flavorful dish to add to your summer grilling repertoire? Look no further than Grilled Lemon Chicken! This recipe combines tender chicken breasts with zesty lemon, garlic, and Dijon mustard for a mouthwatering flavor that will have your taste buds dancing. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or simply craving a light and refreshing meal, this grilled lemon chicken is sure to hit the spot. Join us as we dive into the details of this delectable dish, including ingredients, instructions, cook notes, variations, and even keto and low-carb versions.

Ingredients:

  • 4 Chicken breast, skinless boneless halves
  • 2 large cloves Garlic
  • 2 tbsp Red bell pepper
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 1/3 cup Lemon juice
  • 1/4 tsp Black pepper, ground
  • 1/2 tsp Salt
  • 1/4 cup Olive oil

Instructions:

  1. Prepare Marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together the minced garlic, diced red bell pepper, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, black pepper, salt, and olive oil until well combined.
  2. Marinate Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a shallow dish or resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure to coat each piece evenly. Cover or seal the dish/bag and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
  3. Preheat Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 375-400°F (190-200°C).
  4. Grill Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard any excess marinade. Place the chicken breasts on the preheated grill and cook for 6-8 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
  5. Rest and Serve: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in juicier and more flavorful chicken.
  6. Garnish and Enjoy: Garnish the grilled lemon chicken with fresh lemon slices, chopped parsley, or additional red bell pepper for a pop of color and flavor. Serve hot and enjoy!

Cook Notes and Variations:

  • Citrus Variations: Feel free to experiment with different citrus fruits such as lime or orange juice for a unique twist on this recipe.
  • Herbaceous Additions: Enhance the flavor profile of the marinade by adding fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or basil.
  • Spice it Up: For an extra kick of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions:

For those following a keto or low-carb diet, here are some simple modifications to make this recipe keto-friendly:

  • Reduce Lemon Juice: While lemon juice adds flavor, it also contains natural sugars. Reduce the amount of lemon juice used in the marinade to lower the carb content.
  • Adjust Mustard: Opt for a Dijon mustard with no added sugars to keep the carb count down.
  • Serve with Low-Carb Sides: Pair your grilled lemon chicken with keto-friendly sides such as grilled vegetables, cauliflower rice, or a fresh green salad.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):

Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts? A: Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used in place of chicken breasts for this recipe. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly.

Q: Can I grill this indoors if I don’t have an outdoor grill? A: Absolutely! You can use a grill pan or indoor electric grill to achieve similar results.

Q: How long can I marinate the chicken for? A: You can marinate the chicken for up to 24 hours for maximum flavor, but 30 minutes to an hour will still yield delicious results.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time? A: While it’s best to grill the chicken fresh, you can prepare the marinade ahead of time and marinate the chicken in advance for a quicker cooking process.

Grilled Lemon Chicken is a fantastic dish that’s bursting with bright and zesty flavors, making it perfect for summertime grilling or any time you’re craving a light and tasty meal. With its simple yet flavorful marinade and juicy chicken, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re serving it up at a barbecue, family dinner, or casual weeknight meal, this grilled lemon chicken is guaranteed to impress. So fire up the grill, grab your ingredients, and get ready to savor every delicious bite!