Zesty Herb Grilled Lemon Thyme Chicken Breasts
Elevate your dinner with these juicy grilled chicken breasts infused with the bright flavors of lemon and fresh thyme. This dish is perfect for summer barbecues or cozy indoor meals alike. After marinating for just 30 minutes, these chicken breasts become tender and flavorful, making them a fantastic option for quick weeknight dinners or meal prep. For a delightful twist, feel free to swap the thyme for tarragon for a unique flavor profile. Serve with a light salad or your favorite sides for a wholesome meal that will satisfy everyone at the table.
4
Servings
120
Calories
5
Ingredients
Ingredients
olive oil
2 (tablespoons)
lemon juice
1 (tablespoon)
fresh thyme, chopped
1 (tablespoon)
garlic cloves, minced
2 (cloves)
boneless skinless chicken breast halves
4 (halves)
Instructions
1
In a medium bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, chopped fresh thyme, and minced garlic until well combined.
2
Place the chicken breasts in a shallow dish or a resealable plastic bag and pour the marinade over them, making sure to coat all sides well.
3
Cover the dish or seal the bag and refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the chicken to tenderize.
4
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, or prepare to broil the chicken by preheating the broiler.
5
Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the remaining marinade.
6
For grilling, place the chicken directly on the grill grates, 4 to 6 inches above medium coals. Grill each side for about 7-9 minutes, turning once, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the juices run clear.
7
For broiling, place the chicken on a broiler pan and position it in the oven 4 to 6 inches from the heat source. Broil for approximately 14-18 minutes, flipping once halfway through, until fully cooked through.
8
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the heat and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy the flavorful and tender chicken with your favorite sides!
Nutrition Information
5g
Fat
0.5g
Carbs
16.25g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the flavor profile of the Zesty Herb Grilled Lemon Thyme Chicken Breasts?
The dish features bright flavors of lemon and fresh thyme, complemented by minced garlic and olive oil for a savory, zesty taste.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe is designed to serve 4 people.
How many calories are in one serving of this chicken?
Each serving contains approximately 120 calories.
How long should I marinate the chicken breasts?
The chicken should be marinated in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the meat to tenderize.
Can I substitute the fresh thyme with another herb?
Yes, you can swap fresh thyme for fresh tarragon to create a unique and delightful flavor profile.
What is the recommended internal temperature for the chicken?
The chicken is fully cooked when the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the juices run clear.
What are the main ingredients in the marinade?
The marinade consists of olive oil, lemon juice, chopped fresh thyme, and minced garlic.
How long does it take to grill the chicken?
Grill each side for about 7 to 9 minutes over medium-high heat, turning only once.
How do I broil the chicken if I don't have a grill?
Place the chicken on a broiler pan 4 to 6 inches from the heat source and broil for 14 to 18 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Should I reuse the marinade after the chicken is finished?
No, you should remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the remaining liquid for food safety.
Why is it recommended to let the chicken rest after cooking?
Resting the chicken for a few minutes allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring the meat stays tender and flavorful when served.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, these grilled chicken breasts are a fantastic and versatile option for meal prep or quick weeknight dinners.
What sides go well with Lemon Thyme Chicken?
It pairs beautifully with a light salad, grilled vegetables, or your favorite wholesome side dishes.
How much protein is in each serving?
Each serving provides 16.25g of protein.
What is the fat content of this recipe?
There are 5g of fat per serving in this recipe.
Is this a low-carbohydrate recipe?
Yes, this dish is very low in carbohydrates, containing only 0.5g per serving.
How many chicken breasts do I need for this recipe?
You will need 4 boneless skinless chicken breast halves.
What heat setting should I use for my grill?
You should preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
How much olive oil is required?
The recipe calls for 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
Can I use a plastic bag for the marinating process?
Yes, a resealable plastic bag is a great way to ensure the marinade coats all sides of the chicken well.
How much lemon juice is needed?
You will need 1 tablespoon of lemon juice.
Does this recipe include garlic?
Yes, it uses 2 cloves of minced garlic for the marinade.
Is this recipe considered a quick meal?
Yes, with only 30 minutes of marinating time and quick cooking, it is perfect for weeknights.
How far should I place the broiler pan from the heat?
Position the broiler pan approximately 4 to 6 inches from the heat source.
Can I use this recipe for a summer barbecue?
Absolutely, this dish is a perfect option for summer barbecues.
Is there any sugar in this recipe?
No, this recipe contains no sugar according to the nutritional data.
How should I prepare the fresh thyme?
The fresh thyme should be chopped before being whisked into the marinade.
What type of chicken cut is used in this recipe?
This recipe specifically uses boneless skinless chicken breast halves.
Is this dish dairy-free?
Yes, there are no dairy products in this recipe's ingredients.
How many total ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 5 main ingredients: olive oil, lemon juice, fresh thyme, garlic, and chicken breast.