Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Lemon Pepper Grilled Chicken Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

3.9 from 13 reviews

  • Author: Lea
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Diet: Low Fat

Description

This Lemon Pepper Grilled Chicken recipe offers juicy, flavorful chicken thighs marinated in a zesty lemon and honey mixture, then perfectly grilled to achieve a delightful char and tenderness. Ideal for a quick weeknight meal or weekend barbecue, it combines fresh citrus, garlic, and spices for a vibrant and healthy dish.

Ingredients

Chicken

  • 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs

Marinade

  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  • 1/3 cup freshly-squeezed lemon juice
  • 1/3 cup olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 3 cloves garlic, pressed or finely minced
  • 1 teaspoon coarsely-ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

Instructions

  1. Make the marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together the lemon zest, lemon juice, olive oil, Dijon mustard, honey, garlic, sea salt, black pepper, and onion powder until fully combined to create a flavorful marinade.
  2. Marinate the chicken: Place the chicken thighs in a large bowl or zip-top bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken and toss or shake until the chicken is evenly coated. Cover or seal and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld, or up to 8 hours for deeper flavor.
  3. Heat the grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 400°F. Clean the grill grates and oil them lightly to prevent sticking and ensure perfect grill marks.
  4. Grill the chicken: Remove the chicken thighs from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off, then discard the remaining marinade. Place the chicken on the grill and cook for 5 to 7 minutes on one side. Close the lid between flips to maintain heat. Flip and grill for another 5 to 7 minutes on the other side until the chicken is well charred and cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F.
  5. Rest the chicken: Transfer the grilled chicken to a clean plate and let it rest for 5 minutes. This resting period helps retain the juices ensuring each bite is moist and delicious. Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

  • Marinating for longer than 30 minutes helps deepen the lemon and garlic flavor but avoid exceeding 8 hours to prevent the acid from breaking down the chicken texture too much.
  • If you don't have a grill, you can cook the chicken on a grill pan or in a skillet over medium-high heat, although grilling imparts the best flavor.
  • Make sure to oil the grill grates thoroughly to prevent sticking.
  • Letting the chicken rest after grilling ensures maximum juiciness.
  • Use a meat thermometer to verify the chicken is cooked safely to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: American

Find it online: https://recipesbylea.com/lemon-pepper-grilled-chicken-recipe/