Herb Citrus Grilled Chicken
This dish features chicken breasts marinated in a bright, herbaceous citrus blend, then grilled to develop crispy edges and caramelization. The high heat creates a juicy interior with a smoky, flavorful crust, resulting in tender, flavorful chicken with a vibrant appearance.
Equipment
- Grill or Grill Pan
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring spoons
Ingredients
- 4 pieces chicken breasts boneless, skinless
- 1/4 cup olive oil for marinade
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 evaporated lemon juiced and zested
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary chopped
- 1 teaspoon honey optional, for balance
- to taste salt and pepper
Instructions
- Place the chicken breasts in a large mixing bowl.
- You can start by preparing the marinade: whisk together olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice and zest, chopped herbs, honey (if using), salt, and pepper until well combined. The mixture should be bright and fragrant.
- Pour the marinade over the chicken breasts, making sure each piece is evenly coated. Use tongs or your hands to massage the marinade into the meat.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor infusion.
- Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat until hot. You should feel the heat when you hold your hand near the grates.
- Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing excess to drip off. Place the chicken breasts on the grill, presentation side down if applicable.
- Grill the chicken for about 6-8 minutes without moving it, until you see grill marks and the edges start to turn opaque.
- Flip the chicken breasts and continue grilling for another 6-8 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the meat is cooked through.
- Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a cutting board and let it rest for 5 minutes. This helps keep it juicy and develop more flavor.
- Slice the chicken against the grain into thick, juicy pieces. The exterior should be nicely charred with a vibrant, moist interior.
- Serve the grilled chicken hot, garnished with extra herbs or lemon slices if desired.
Notes
Adjust marinade time for extra flavor. Be careful not to overcook to maintain juiciness.