Quick Hit: Lemon Herb Chicken

Good evening everyone! As the weather turns warmer (I swear, it will get warmer eventually…) we tend to find ourselves grilling out more frequently. After enjoying an afternoon outdoors or simply working on projects around the house, the phrase “Let’s throw something on the grill” becomes to the go-to when dinner time rolls around. The problem is, while grilling is quick and relatively easy, the recipe options surrounding it can be rather simple and limited – due in large part to the off the cuff nature of grilling (you decide to grill 20 minutes before dinner – for example). That’s why it’s handy to have a few “Go-to” recipes on standby. A simple marinade or side dish can truly transform grilled chicken / steaks / veggies into a fulfilling recipe.

Tonight’s recipe fits that description to the letter. It’s easy to throw together, is low on required prep time and includes ingredients you’re likely to have in your pantry already. Oh, and it’s quite delicious too (which really is the entire point, after all).

The Recipe: Lemon Herb Chicken

Original Recipe Inspired by: ‘Lemon Grilled Chicken’ – The Best of Food Network Cookbook

What You’ll Need:

2-4 Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts

2 Garlic Cloves (Minced)

2 Lemons (Juiced)

2 Cups Fresh Parsley, Thyme, Oregano (A blending of all or one of them)

½ Teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes

½ Teaspoon Onion Powder

If you look at your spice rack, you may find that you have a seasoning called “Chicken Seasoning” this rather innocuous sounding spice could make your life even easier for this recipe. Most chicken seasonings are composed of parley, thyme, sage, red pepper flakes, garlic seasoning – and a few other proprietary spices (depending on the brand) as you can see, those are all things required in our recipe. Long story short – if you have chicken seasoning on hand, simply substitute the last three items above with 2 tablespoons of the dried spice.

To begin, add the juice from the lemons into a large zip top bag. Add the chicken breasts to the bag along with the minced garlic, herbs, red pepper flakes and onion powder (Or the chicken seasoning, if you have it). Seal the bag and give it a few good “tosses” until the seasoning and lemon juice are well blended and the chicken is evenly coated in the marinade. Place the sealed bag in your refrigerator for at least an hour (up to 4 hours) before grilling.

To prepare the chicken, simply set your grill to 300 degrees and cook the breast for 5 to 7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees. Serve with a side of your choice and enjoy the fresh lemon, herb flavor of a well prepared (and grill seared) chicken breast.