How to Make Lemon Pepper Chicken on the Grill: A Simple Recipe for Juicy, Flavorful Meals

Craving a delicious meal that’s easy to whip up on the grill? Lemon pepper chicken might just be what you need. It’s the perfect blend of zesty and savory flavors that can elevate any backyard barbecue or weeknight dinner.

Key Takeaways

• Ingredient Selection: Choose boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for optimal grilling results, using uniform sizes for even cooking.
• Flavor Enhancement: Create a zesty homemade lemon pepper seasoning or use a pre-made option, and pair it with a simple marinade for added moisture and taste.
• Marinating Time: Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, with 4 hours being ideal, to allow flavors to penetrate deeply.
• Grilling Technique: Preheat the grill to medium-high (400°F to 450°F), oil the grates to prevent sticking, and grill chicken for 6-7 minutes per side while aiming for an internal temperature of 165°F.
• Resting Period: Allow the grilled chicken to rest for 5 minutes post-cooking to ensure juiciness and flavor distribution.
• Serving Suggestions: Pair lemon pepper chicken with grilled vegetables, rice pilaf, or various dipping sauces like tzatziki or chimichurri to elevate your meal.

Ingredients Needed

To create delicious lemon pepper chicken on the grill, you’ll need a few key ingredients. Gather the following items for the best flavor and grilling experience.

Chicken Selection

Choose boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for grilling. Breasts provide lean protein, while thighs offer more juiciness. Select chicken pieces that are uniform in size for even cooking. A typical serving is about 6 to 8 ounces per person.

Lemon Pepper Seasoning

Look for pre-made lemon pepper seasoning for convenience. Check the label for zesty lemon peel and coarsely ground black pepper. Alternatively, make your own by mixing the following:

• 2 tablespoons lemon zest
• 1 tablespoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon sea salt
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

Combine these ingredients in a bowl for a fresh seasoning option that enhances the chicken’s flavor.

Additional Marinade Ingredients

Enhance the chicken’s taste with a simple marinade. You’ll need:

• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons honey (optional for a touch of sweetness)
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (or 1/2 teaspoon dried)

Mix these ingredients together, then marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate. The marinade helps keep the chicken moist on the grill.

Preparation Instructions

Preparing lemon pepper chicken for the grill involves marinating the chicken and ensuring the grill reaches the right temperature for cooking. Follow these steps for optimal flavor and texture.

Marinating the Chicken

1. Combine your marinade ingredients. Mix ¼ cup olive oil, ¼ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice, 1 tablespoon honey, and 1 teaspoon dried thyme in a bowl.
2. Add seasoning. Stir in 2 tablespoons of lemon pepper seasoning or the homemade mix made from lemon zest, black pepper, sea salt, and garlic powder.
3. Coat the chicken. Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring an even coat.
4. Seal and refrigerate. Remove excess air from the bag or cover the dish tightly. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours for enhanced flavor.
5. Remove and discard excess marinade. Before grilling, take out the chicken and let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes.

1. Preheat the grill. Set your gas grill to medium-high heat or prepare a charcoal grill for direct heat.
2. Clean the grill grates. Use a grill brush to remove any debris or residue from previous grilling sessions for better flavor and easier cooking.
3. Oil the grates. Lightly brush the grates with vegetable oil or spray non-stick grill spray before placing the chicken on them.
4. Test the heat. Hold your hand about 6 inches above the grill. If you can only hold it there for 2-4 seconds, the grill is at the right temperature for grilling chicken.
5. Get ready to grill. Once preheated and prepared, place the marinated chicken on the grill grates.

These preparation steps set you up for a delicious lemon pepper chicken meal that’s sure to impress.

Grilling Process

Grilling lemon pepper chicken is straightforward when you follow the right steps. Here’s how to set everything up and ensure perfectly cooked chicken.

Setting Up the Grill

1. Clean the grill grates with a grill brush to remove any residue.
2. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat, around 400°F to 450°F.
3. Oil the grates lightly to prevent sticking.
4. Arrange the chicken pieces evenly on the grill, leaving space between them for even cooking.

Cooking the Chicken

1. Place the marinated chicken on the grill.
2. Grill for 6 to 7 minutes per side, depending on the thickness.
3. Flip the chicken only once to achieve good grill marks and prevent drying out.
4. Optionally, baste the chicken with leftover marinade during cooking for extra flavor.

1. Use a meat thermometer to check the chicken temperature.
2. Ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption.
3. If you don’t have a thermometer, you can cut into the thickest part of the chicken; juices should run clear, not pink.
4. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after removing it from the grill to allow juices to redistribute.

Following these steps ensures a flavorful lemon pepper chicken that’s juicy and perfectly grilled.

Serving Suggestions

Lemon pepper chicken pairs well with various side dishes and sauces, enhancing its fresh flavors. Here are some suggestions to elevate your meal.

Side Dishes

1. Grilled Vegetables: Bell peppers, zucchini, and asparagus add color and nutrition. Toss them in olive oil and season with salt before grilling.
2. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf flavored with herbs complements the zesty chicken. You can mix in almonds or peas for extra texture.
3. Potato Salad: A light, tangy potato salad works well. Use Greek yogurt and fresh herbs to keep it refreshing.
4. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw with a citrus vinaigrette balances the dish’s flavors. The crunch pairs nicely with the tender chicken.
5. Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn brushed with butter and lime adds sweetness, creating a delightful contrast to the savory chicken.

1. Tzatziki Sauce: This cool, creamy sauce made with yogurt, cucumber, and dill offers a refreshing taste with every bite.
2. Honey Mustard: The sweetness of honey combined with tangy mustard creates a dip that complements the lemon pepper flavor.
3. Chimichurri: This herbaceous sauce made with parsley, garlic, and vinegar introduces a vibrant kick that enhances the grilled chicken.
4. Sriracha Aioli: Blend mayonnaise with sriracha for a spicy, creamy dip. It adds a bold flavor contrast to the chicken.
5. Lemon Garlic Butter: Melted butter with lemon juice and minced garlic allows for a rich, flavorful drizzle over the grilled chicken.

These suggestions can enhance your lemon pepper chicken experience, making each meal memorable and satisfying.

Conclusion

Grilling lemon pepper chicken is a fantastic way to bring vibrant flavors to your table. With just a few simple ingredients and easy steps you can create a dish that’s perfect for any occasion.

Don’t forget to let the chicken rest after grilling to keep it juicy and tender. Pair it with your favorite sides and sauces to make the meal even more enjoyable.

So fire up that grill and get ready to impress your family and friends with this delicious lemon pepper chicken. Happy grilling!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is lemon pepper chicken?

Lemon pepper chicken is a flavorful dish made from grilled chicken seasoned with lemon and black pepper. It combines zesty and savory flavors, making it perfect for barbecues and quick weeknight meals.

What ingredients do I need for lemon pepper chicken?

Key ingredients include boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, lemon pepper seasoning, olive oil, lemon juice, honey, and thyme. You can use store-bought seasoning or make your own with lemon zest, black pepper, sea salt, and garlic powder.

How do I prepare the marinade for lemon pepper chicken?

To make the marinade, mix olive oil, freshly squeezed lemon juice, honey, and thyme in a bowl. Coat the chicken in this mixture, ensuring each piece is well-covered, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to enhance flavor and tenderness.

What are the grilling instructions for lemon pepper chicken?

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Clean and lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking. Grill the marinated chicken for 6 to 7 minutes on each side, flipping only once. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F before serving.

How should I serve lemon pepper chicken?

Lemon pepper chicken pairs well with side dishes like grilled vegetables, rice pilaf, potato salad, coleslaw, or corn on the cob. Complement it with sauces like tzatziki, honey mustard, or lemon garlic butter for added flavor.