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Lemon Garlic Marinade for Grilled Chicken Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 3.9 from 90 reviews
  • Author: admin
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 2 hours 25 minutes (including marinating time)
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: American

Description

This zesty Lemon Garlic Marinade infuses boneless skinless chicken breasts with bright citrus and savory garlic flavors. Perfectly balanced with Dijon mustard and seasonings, this marinade tenderizes the chicken and adds a delicious tang. Marinate for at least 2 hours, then grill the chicken for a flavorful, juicy dish ideal for a healthy weeknight dinner or summer barbecue.


Ingredients

Scale

Marinade Ingredients

  • ½ cup olive oil
  • 4 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 6 large garlic cloves, minced
  • 1½ tsp sea salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • Zest and juice of 2 lemons

Main Ingredient

  • 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts


Instructions

  1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together the olive oil, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, sea salt, black pepper, and the zest and juice of two lemons until the mixture is well combined.
  2. Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a shallow dish or resealable plastic bag and pour the marinade over them. Ensure each piece is thoroughly coated. Cover and refrigerate for a minimum of 2 hours, or up to 12 hours for maximum flavor and tenderness.
  3. Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken breasts from the marinade, shaking off any excess. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the meat is cooked through, with nice grill marks and slight char for flavor.
  4. Serve: Let the grilled chicken rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring moist and flavorful bites.

Notes

  • For even more flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.
  • If you don’t have a grill, you can cook the chicken on a grill pan or bake it in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes.
  • Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the most vibrant citrus flavor.
  • Discard any leftover marinade that has come into contact with raw chicken to avoid cross-contamination.