Are you tired of the same old chicken recipes? Lemon pepper grilled chicken could be the flavorful twist you need to shake things up. Imagine juicy, tender chicken infused with zesty lemon and a hint of pepper, sizzling on the grill. It’s the perfect dish for a summer barbecue or a quick weeknight dinner.
Key Takeaways
- Simple Marinade: Combine lemon juice, olive oil, and lemon pepper seasoning for a zesty marinade that infuses flavor into the chicken.
- Marination Time: For optimal flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but up to 4 hours for deeper taste.
- Proper Grilling Technique: Preheat the grill to 375°F – 400°F and cook the chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, ensuring it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Rest Before Serving: Allow the grilled chicken to rest for 5 minutes after grilling to let the juices redistribute, ensuring tenderness.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair grilled chicken with sides like grilled vegetables, fresh salads, or creamy dips to enhance the meal experience.
- Experiment with Ingredients: Feel free to add optional ingredients like garlic powder, paprika, or fresh herbs to customize the flavor profile of the dish.
How to Make Lemon Pepper Grilled Chicken
Making lemon pepper grilled chicken is simple and rewarding. Follow these steps for a delicious meal.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons lemon pepper seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, lemon pepper seasoning, and salt. Whisk until well mixed.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high, around 375°F to 400°F.
- Grill the Chicken: Remove chicken from the marinade. Discard the leftover marinade. Place chicken on the grill. Grill each side for about 6-7 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Rest and Serve: Let the grilled chicken rest for about 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: Ensure perfect doneness by checking the temperature at the thickest part of the chicken.
- Experiment with Marinade Time: Longer marination adds more flavor; adjust according to your preference.
- Serve with Sides: Pair the grilled chicken with grilled vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Ingredients Required
To make lemon pepper grilled chicken, gather the following essential ingredients. These components create a vibrant flavor profile that’s both refreshing and satisfying.
Essential Ingredients
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use 2-4 pieces, about 6 ounces each, for best results. Chicken breasts provide a lean base for marination and grilling.
- Lemon Pepper Seasoning: Choose your favorite brand or make homemade seasoning. You’ll need 2 tablespoons to achieve that zesty flavor.
- Olive Oil: Use 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil to help the seasoning adhere to the chicken and enhance moisture during grilling.
- Fresh Lemon Juice: Squeeze 2 tablespoons from about one medium lemon. Fresh juice brightens the marinade and elevates the chicken’s flavor.
- Garlic Powder: Add 1 teaspoon for a subtle garlic flavor. This ingredient complements the lemon and pepper nicely.
- Paprika: Include 1 teaspoon for extra warmth and slight sweetness. This adds depth to the seasoning.
- Chopped Fresh Parsley: Use as a garnish to enhance presentation. Fresh herbs add color and a fresh aroma when serving.
- Lemon Zest: Grate the zest of one lemon for added intensity. This boosts the lemony flavor without adding extra acidity.
Gather these ingredients to embark on a culinary adventure that results in a flavorful and juicy lemon pepper grilled chicken.
Preparation Steps
Follow these straightforward steps to prepare lemon pepper grilled chicken that’s juicy and flavorful.
Marinating the Chicken
- Mix Ingredients: In a bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of lemon pepper seasoning, 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil, and 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice. Add optional ingredients like 1 teaspoon of garlic powder and 1 teaspoon of paprika for extra flavor.
- Coat the Chicken: Place 2-4 pieces of boneless, skinless chicken breasts in the marinade. Ensure the chicken is evenly coated on all sides.
- Marinate: Cover and refrigerate the chicken for at least 30 minutes. For a more intense flavor, aim for 2-4 hours.
- Prepare the Chicken: After marinating, remove the chicken from the refrigerator. Let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before grilling.
- Heat the Grill: Preheat your grill on medium-high heat for about 10-15 minutes. A well-heated grill ensures nice sear marks and helps prevent sticking.
- Oil the Grate: Lightly oil the grill grates using a paper towel dipped in vegetable oil. Use tongs to hold the paper towel for safety.
- Check Temperature: Aim for a grill temperature of around 400°F to 450°F. This range cooks the chicken evenly while sealing in the juices.
- Grill the Chicken: Place the marinated chicken on the hot grill. Cook each side for 6-8 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Rest Before Serving: Remove the chicken from the grill and allow it to rest for about 5 minutes. This step lets the juices redistribute, ensuring tenderness.
Grilling Process
Grilling lemon pepper chicken involves precise cooking techniques to achieve juicy, flavorful results. Follow these steps for the best outcome.
Cooking Time and Temperature
Grilling time is crucial for achieving perfectly cooked chicken. Preheat your grill to 400°F to 450°F. Place the marinated chicken breasts on the grill and cook for 6-8 minutes per side. Check to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F. For best results, use a meat thermometer for accuracy. If you prefer a nice char, increase the grilling time slightly, but avoid overcooking to maintain moisture.
Checking for Doneness
Checking for doneness ensures your chicken is safe to eat and tender. Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken. If it reads 165°F, it’s done. If you don’t have a meat thermometer, cut into the center; the juices should run clear, not pink. Letting the chicken rest for 5 minutes after grilling allows juices to redistribute, enhancing flavor and tenderness.
Serving Suggestions
Pair lemon pepper grilled chicken with vibrant sides to enhance your meal. Here are some satisfying options:
Grilled Vegetables
Complement the chicken’s flavor with grilled vegetables. Choose zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus. Toss them in olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and grill alongside the chicken for a colorful plate.
Fresh Salad
Serve the chicken with a fresh green salad. Use a mix of romaine lettuce, spinach, and arugula. Add cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette for a refreshing crunch.
Rice or Quinoa
Opt for a side of rice or quinoa to absorb the chicken’s juices. Lemon or herb-infused rice or quinoa enhances the dish’s flavors. Cook according to package instructions for a perfect, fluffy side.
Creamy Dips
Pair the grilled chicken with creamy dips like tzatziki or avocado ranch. These dips add a rich and cool contrast to the zesty chicken.
Fresh Fruit
Consider fresh fruit as a light and juicy side. Sliced mango, pineapple, or a mixed fruit salad balances the savory flavors with sweetness.
Breads
Include warm, crusty bread or pita to round out the meal. Serve it with olive oil or hummus on the side for added flavor.
Wine Pairing
If you’re enjoying a drink, select a chilled white wine. A Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the zesty notes of the chicken beautifully.
These suggestions create a complete meal that highlights the lemon pepper grilled chicken while offering variety and balance on the plate.
Conclusion
Now that you know how to make delicious lemon pepper grilled chicken it’s time to fire up that grill and impress your family and friends. This dish not only brings a burst of flavor but also pairs perfectly with a variety of sides.
Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or enjoying a cozy weeknight dinner you’ll find that this recipe is both simple and satisfying. Don’t forget to let the chicken rest before serving to ensure every bite is juicy and tender.
Enjoy your culinary adventure and savor the bright, zesty flavors that make this dish a standout on any table!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is lemon pepper grilled chicken?
Lemon pepper grilled chicken is a flavorful dish featuring tender, juicy chicken breasts marinated in lemon juice, lemon pepper seasoning, and olive oil before being grilled. It’s a refreshing alternative to traditional chicken recipes, perfect for summer barbecues or quick dinners.
What ingredients are needed for lemon pepper grilled chicken?
To make lemon pepper grilled chicken, you need boneless, skinless chicken breasts, lemon pepper seasoning, olive oil, fresh lemon juice, and optional ingredients like garlic powder, paprika, and chopped parsley. These create a zesty and delicious flavor profile.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes. For more intense flavor, consider marinating it for up to 4 hours. Always refrigerate the chicken during the marination process for safety.
What temperature should I grill the chicken?
Preheat your grill to a temperature between 400°F and 450°F. This ensures a great sear and helps cook the chicken evenly while keeping it juicy.
How do I know when the chicken is done?
The chicken is safe to eat when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature. Alternatively, cut into the center to check if the juices run clear.
What should I serve with lemon pepper grilled chicken?
Serve lemon pepper grilled chicken with grilled vegetables, fresh salads, rice, or quinoa. It pairs well with creamy dips, fresh fruit, and warm bread. A chilled white wine like Sauvignon Blanc enhances the meal beautifully.
Can I use skin-on chicken for this recipe?
While the recipe is designed for boneless, skinless chicken breasts, you can use skin-on chicken. Just be sure to adjust cooking times to ensure the chicken cooks thoroughly while the skin becomes crispy and flavorful.
