The Ina Garten Grilled Lemon Chicken Recipe is simple, fresh, and full of flavor. This dish is perfect for a summer dinner or a quick weekday meal. The chicken stays juicy while getting a light char from the grill.
Lemon adds bright, zesty taste and herbs make it aromatic. Many people love this recipe because it is easy and fast to cook. You do not need complicated tools or ingredients.
The Ina Garten Grilled Lemon Chicken Recipe is healthy, flavorful and impressive for guests. It is perfect for family meals or small gatherings. Try this recipe and enjoy a fresh, tasty dinner. You will love how simple it is to make.
My Experience With This Ina Garten Grilled Lemon Chicken
I tried this grilled lemon chicken last weekend. The smell of grilled lemon and herbs was amazing. The chicken came out juicy and soft. The grill gave perfect golden marks on each piece. My family enjoyed it with a side of vegetables.
The flavors were fresh and bright. It felt like a restaurant meal, but I made it easily at home. This recipe is fast, simple and delicious. It quickly became a favorite in our house.
Recipe Card info
- Recipe Name: Ina Garten Grilled Lemon Chicken
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins
- Total Time: 35 mins
- Course: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
- Calories: 280 kcal per serving
Equipment List
- Grill or grill pan
- Mixing bowl
- Tongs
- Basting brush
- Measuring spoons
- Knife and cutting board
- Serving platter
Ingredients You Need for Ina Garten Grilled Lemon Chicken (with Quantity)
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
Step-by-Step Guide
- Prepare the Marinade
Mix olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, salt, pepper, thyme and rosemary in a bowl. - Coat the Chicken
Place chicken breasts in the bowl. Rub marinade on all sides. Let them sit for 10 minutes. - Preheat the Grill
Heat grill to medium-high. Make sure it is hot for perfect sear marks. - Oil the Grill
Brush grill grates with a little olive oil. This prevents chicken from sticking. - Place Chicken on Grill
Put chicken on the grill. Cook over direct heat. - Cook First Side
Grill chicken for 5–6 minutes. Do not move them too much. - Flip the Chicken
Turn chicken using tongs. Cook another 5–6 minutes for even cooking. - Check Temperature
Use a meat thermometer. Chicken should reach 165°F for safe eating. - Rest the Chicken
Remove from grill. Cover loosely with foil. Rest for 5 minutes to keep juices. - Slice and Serve
Cut chicken into even slices. Serve on a platter with fresh lemon wedges.
Tips to Make the Best Ina Garten Grilled Lemon Chicken
- Use fresh lemon juice for the brightest flavor.
- Do not overcook chicken to keep it juicy.
- Let chicken rest before slicing.
- Use fresh herbs for stronger aroma.
- Preheat the grill well for perfect sear marks.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Do not skip marinating; it adds flavor and moisture.
- Do not cook chicken at too high heat; it dries out meat.
- Do not cut chicken immediately; resting keeps it juicy.
- Do not forget to oil the grill grates.
- Do not use bottled lemon juice; fresh is better.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this grilled lemon chicken with roasted vegetables, quinoa or a fresh green salad. Add garlic bread or rice for a complete meal.
Drizzle extra lemon juice on top for extra brightness. This dish is light, fresh and perfect for family dinners or summer gatherings.
Variations You Can Try
- Add paprika for a smoky flavor.
- Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for juicier meat.
- Add chopped parsley for extra freshness.
- Marinate overnight for stronger flavor.
- Serve with a yogurt-lemon sauce for creamy taste.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge.
- Keep for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in oven at 300°F to keep moist.
- Do not microwave for long; it can dry out chicken.
- Slices can be used cold in salads or sandwiches.
Nutrition Information
| Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 280 kcal |
| Protein | 35 g |
| Fat | 12 g |
| Carbs | 2 g |
Health Benefits
Grilled chicken is high in protein and low in fat. Fresh lemon adds vitamin C. Herbs provide antioxidants and boost flavor without extra calories. This dish is healthy, light and perfect for a balanced diet. It supports muscle growth and overall wellness.
Ina Garten Grilled Lemon Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice freshly squeezed
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary chopped
Instructions
Prepare the Marinade
- Mix olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, salt, pepper, thyme and rosemary in a bowl.
Coat the Chicken
- Place chicken breasts in the bowl. Rub marinade on all sides. Let them sit for 10 minutes.
Preheat the Grill
- Heat grill to medium-high. Make sure it is hot for perfect sear marks.
Oil the Grill
- Brush grill grates with a little olive oil. This prevents chicken from sticking.
Place Chicken on Grill
- Put chicken on the grill. Cook over direct heat.
Cook First Side
- Grill chicken for 5–6 minutes. Do not move them too much.
Flip the Chicken
- Turn chicken using tongs. Cook another 5–6 minutes for even cooking.
Check Temperature
- Use a meat thermometer. Chicken should reach 165°F for safe eating.
Rest the Chicken
- Remove from grill. Cover loosely with foil. Rest for 5 minutes to keep juices.
Slice and Serve
- Cut chicken into even slices. Serve on a platter with fresh lemon wedges.
Notes
- Use fresh lemon juice for the brightest flavor.
- Do not overcook chicken to keep it juicy.
- Let chicken rest before slicing.
- Use fresh herbs for stronger aroma.
- Preheat the grill well for perfect sear marks.
FAQs about Ina Garten Grilled Lemon Chicken
1. Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?
Yes, bone-in chicken works. Cook a little longer and check temperature to 165°F.
2. Can I make this in the oven instead of a grill?
Yes, bake at 400°F for 20–25 minutes. Broil for 2–3 minutes for grill marks.
3. How long should I marinate the chicken?
At least 10 minutes works, but 2 hours gives the best flavor.
4. Can I freeze this grilled chicken?
Yes, freeze cooked chicken in airtight containers for up to 2 months.
5. How do I keep chicken juicy while grilling?
Do not overcook and let it rest before slicing. Basting helps too.
Final Thoughts
The Ina Garten Grilled Lemon Chicken Recipe is easy, fresh and delicious. It is perfect for quick meals or special occasions.
Follow the steps, enjoy the process and serve it with love. Your family will enjoy the bright lemon flavor and tender chicken. This recipe will become a favorite in your kitchen.
Hi, I’m Emily Grace! I love cooking simple, tasty food that brings people together. On Bite Dive, I share easy recipes, fun food tips, and ideas to make every meal special. My kitchen is my happy place, and I’m so excited to share it with you!