Chicken & Turkey

Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Breast

Name: Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Breast
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 (6 oz) boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 cup (250ml) chicken broth; 1/2 cup (125ml) freshly squeezed lemon juice; 1/4 cup (15g) chopped fresh rosemary; 1/4 cup (15g) chopped fresh thyme; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp (5g) kosher salt; 1 tsp (5g) black pepper; 2 tbsp (30g) olive oil; 1 tsp (5g) lemon zest

By Tyler Brooks · June 18, 2026 · Chicken & Turkey

Prep20 min

Cook15 min

Total40 min

Serves4

Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Breast — Juicy grilled chicken breast

As a former competitive rower turned recipe developer, I know how important it is to fuel your body with healthy, delicious meals. That's why I'm excited to share my recipe for Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Breast, a protein-forward meal that's perfect for a quick and easy dinner. This dish is a staple in my household, and I love serving it to my family and friends because it's so flavorful and moist.

I've always been a fan of grilled chicken, but I used to struggle with getting it to turn out juicy and tender. That was until I discovered the secret to making the perfect grilled chicken breast: a quick wet brine before grilling. This simple step makes all the difference in the world, and I'm excited to share it with you.

So, what makes this recipe so special? For starters, the combination of lemon, herbs, and garlic creates a flavor profile that's both bright and savory. The lemon adds a nice acidity, while the herbs provide a subtle earthiness. And let's not forget the garlic - it adds a depth of flavor that complements the chicken perfectly.

This recipe is perfect for anyone looking for a healthy, easy meal that's packed with flavor. Whether you're a busy professional or an athlete like me, you'll love how quickly this dish comes together. And the best part? It's incredibly versatile - you can serve it with your favorite sides, from roasted vegetables to quinoa or brown rice.

So, what are you waiting for? Let's get started and make some delicious Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Breast! This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion - it's sure to impress your family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is incredibly easy to make, requiring only a few ingredients and minimal preparation time.
The dish is perfect for a quick and easy dinner, and can be made in under 30 minutes.
The combination of lemon, herbs, and garlic creates a flavor profile that's both bright and savory.
The chicken is moist and tender, thanks to the quick wet brine and proper temperature control.
This recipe is versatile and can be served with a variety of sides, from roasted vegetables to quinoa or brown rice.
The dish is healthy and packed with protein, making it a great option for athletes or health-conscious individuals.
The recipe is easy to scale up or down, making it perfect for large groups or small families.

Why This Recipe Works

The key to this recipe is the quick wet brine that the chicken breasts soak in before grilling. This step helps to lock in moisture and flavor, ensuring that the chicken stays juicy and tender. The acidity in the lemon juice also helps to break down the proteins in the chicken, making it even more tender.

Another important factor is the temperature control. By grilling the chicken over medium-high heat, we're able to get a nice sear on the outside while keeping the inside juicy. And by letting the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing, we're allowing the juices to redistribute, making the chicken even more tender and flavorful.

The combination of herbs and garlic also plays a crucial role in this recipe. The herbs add a bright, freshness to the dish, while the garlic provides a depth of flavor that complements the chicken perfectly. By mixing these ingredients into the brine, we're able to infuse the chicken with flavor from the inside out.

Finally, the layering of flavors in this recipe is what really makes it shine. By starting with a flavorful brine, then adding a tangy and herby sauce, we're creating a dish that's both complex and balanced. And by serving the chicken with a side of roasted vegetables or quinoa, we're able to round out the meal and make it feel more complete.

Ingredients You’ll Need

When it comes to making Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Breast, the ingredients are just as important as the technique. That's why I've carefully selected each ingredient to ensure that it adds flavor, texture, and moisture to the dish. From the fresh herbs to the tangy lemon juice, every component plays a crucial role in creating a dish that's both delicious and satisfying.

When shopping for ingredients, be sure to choose fresh and high-quality items. This will make a big difference in the flavor and texture of the final dish. For example, use fresh lemons and herbs, and opt for organic chicken breasts if possible.

4 (6 oz) boneless, skinless chicken breastsI like to use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this recipe because they're easy to work with and cook evenly. Look for organic or hormone-free chicken if possible, as it will have a better flavor and texture.
1 cup (250ml) chicken brothChicken broth adds moisture and flavor to the dish, and helps to keep the chicken tender and juicy. You can use low-sodium broth or make your own by simmering chicken bones in water.
1/2 cup (125ml) freshly squeezed lemon juiceFresh lemon juice is essential for this recipe, as it adds a bright and tangy flavor to the dish. Use a manual or electric juicer to extract the juice from 2-3 lemons, depending on their size and juiciness.
1/4 cup (15g) chopped fresh rosemaryFresh rosemary has a piney and herbaceous flavor that pairs perfectly with the chicken and lemon. Use a pair of kitchen shears to chop the rosemary leaves, and be sure to remove any stems or woody bits.
1/4 cup (15g) chopped fresh thymeFresh thyme has a slightly minty and earthy flavor that complements the rosemary and lemon. Use a pair of kitchen shears to chop the thyme leaves, and be sure to remove any stems or woody bits.
2 cloves garlic, mincedGarlic adds a depth of flavor to the dish and helps to bring all the ingredients together. Use a microplane or garlic press to mince the garlic, and be sure to remove any excess oil or liquid.
1 tsp (5g) kosher saltKosher salt is a coarser and more flavorful salt than table salt, and helps to bring out the flavors of the other ingredients. Use a mortar and pestle to grind the salt into a finer texture if desired.
1 tsp (5g) black pepperBlack pepper adds a subtle kick to the dish and helps to balance out the flavors. Use a pepper mill to grind the pepper into a fine texture, and be sure to remove any excess oil or liquid.
2 tbsp (30g) olive oilOlive oil is used to brush the chicken breasts before grilling, and helps to add flavor and moisture to the dish. Use a high-quality extra-virgin olive oil for the best flavor and texture.
1 tsp (5g) lemon zestLemon zest adds a bright and citrusy flavor to the dish, and helps to bring all the ingredients together. Use a microplane or zester to remove the zest from 1-2 lemons, depending on their size and flavor.

Ingredients for Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Breast

Equipment You’ll Need

Large heavy skillet or grill panSharp chef's knifeCutting boardMeasuring cups and spoonsWhiskTongs or spatulaInstant-read thermometer

How to Make Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Breast

1
In a large bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, lemon juice, chopped rosemary, chopped thyme, garlic, kosher salt, and black pepper to make the brine.
2
Add the chicken breasts to the brine and make sure they're fully submerged. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3
Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken breasts from the brine and pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
4
Brush the chicken breasts with olive oil on both sides, making sure they're evenly coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5
Place the chicken breasts on the grill and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the grill and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This will help the juices to redistribute and the chicken to stay tender.
7
While the chicken is resting, mix together the lemon zest and chopped herbs in a small bowl. This will be used as a garnish for the chicken.
8
Slice the chicken breasts against the grain and serve with the lemon herb garnish on top. You can also serve with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables or quinoa.
9
To add extra flavor to the dish, you can brush the chicken with a mixture of lemon juice and olive oil during the last few minutes of cooking. This will help to create a crispy and caramelized crust on the outside of the chicken.
10
If you don't have a grill, you can also cook the chicken in a skillet on the stovetop. Simply heat a couple of tablespoons of oil in the skillet over medium-high heat and cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
11
To make the dish more substantial, you can serve the chicken with a side of roasted vegetables or a salad. Simply toss the vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast in the oven at 425°F (220°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and lightly browned.
12
To make the dish more flavorful, you can add a few cloves of minced garlic to the brine or the skillet when cooking the chicken. This will help to create a rich and savory flavor that complements the lemon and herbs.

Expert Tips

Make sure to not overcook the chicken, as it can become dry and tough. Use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature and remove the chicken from the heat when it reaches 165°F (74°C).
Don't overcrowd the grill or skillet, as this can lower the temperature and affect the cooking time. Cook the chicken in batches if necessary, to ensure that it's cooked evenly and thoroughly.
Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing, as this will help the juices to redistribute and the chicken to stay tender.
Use a cast-iron or stainless steel skillet, as these retain heat well and can help to create a crispy crust on the chicken.
Don't be afraid to experiment with different herbs and spices, as this can help to create a unique and flavorful dish.
Make sure to pat the chicken dry with paper towels before cooking, as excess moisture can affect the texture and flavor of the dish.
Use a mixture of olive oil and lemon juice to brush the chicken during the last few minutes of cooking, as this will help to create a crispy and caramelized crust.
Let the chicken come to room temperature before cooking, as this will help it to cook more evenly and thoroughly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the chicken, which can make it dry and tough.
Not letting the chicken rest before slicing, which can cause the juices to run out and the chicken to become dry.
Not patting the chicken dry with paper towels before cooking, which can affect the texture and flavor of the dish.
Using low-quality ingredients, such as old or stale herbs, which can affect the flavor and aroma of the dish.
Not using enough oil or lemon juice when cooking the chicken, which can cause it to stick to the skillet or grill.
Not checking the internal temperature of the chicken, which can cause it to be undercooked or overcooked.

Variations and Substitutions

Add a few cloves of minced garlic to the brine or skillet for extra flavor.
Use different herbs, such as thyme or oregano, for a unique flavor profile.
Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to the chicken during the last few minutes of cooking.
Use a mixture of olive oil and butter to brush the chicken, for a richer and more savory flavor.
Serve the chicken with a side of roasted vegetables or quinoa, for a more substantial meal.
Add a few sprigs of fresh rosemary to the skillet or grill, for a fragrant and herbaceous flavor.
Use chicken thighs or legs instead of breasts, for a more tender and juicy texture.

What to Serve With Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Breast

This dish is perfect for serving with a variety of sides, such as roasted vegetables, quinoa, or a salad. You can also serve it with a side of garlic bread or a green salad, for a more substantial meal. The lemon and herbs add a bright and refreshing flavor to the dish, making it perfect for spring or summer.

Some other ideas for sides include roasted asparagus, grilled bell peppers, or a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette. You can also serve the chicken with a side of roasted potatoes or sweet potatoes, for a more filling meal.

Serve with roasted vegetables, such as asparagus or Brussels sproutsServe with quinoa or brown rice, for a more substantial mealServe with a side salad, such as a simple green salad or a caprese saladServe with garlic bread or a crusty baguette, for a more indulgent meal

Make-Ahead, Storage, Freezing and Reheating

This dish can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or frozen for up to 2 months. To store, simply place the cooked chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate or freeze. You can also store the brine in the refrigerator for up to 1 week, and use it to marinate other proteins such as pork or beef.

To reheat, simply place the chicken in the oven at 350°F (180°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also reheat the chicken in the microwave, but be careful not to overcook it. To freeze, simply place the cooked chicken in a freezer-safe bag or container and store in the freezer. To thaw, simply place the chicken in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as desired.

It's also important to note that the chicken can be cooked ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator or freezer. Simply cook the chicken as directed, then let it cool to room temperature before storing. This can be a great time-saver for busy weeknights or special occasions.

When reheating the chicken, make sure to check the internal temperature to ensure that it reaches 165°F (74°C). You can also add a few tablespoons of chicken broth or lemon juice to the chicken when reheating, to help keep it moist and flavorful.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to cook chicken breasts?

The best way to cook chicken breasts is to grill or pan-fry them, as this helps to create a crispy crust on the outside while keeping the inside juicy and tender. Make sure to not overcook the chicken, as it can become dry and tough.

How do I know when the chicken is cooked?

The best way to know when the chicken is cooked is to use an instant-read thermometer, which can check the internal temperature of the chicken. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) for cooked chicken.

Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe. Simply thaw the chicken breasts according to the package instructions, then proceed with the recipe as directed.

What is the best way to store cooked chicken?

The best way to store cooked chicken is to place it in an airtight container and refrigerate or freeze. Make sure to label the container with the date and contents, and use the chicken within a few days of cooking.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this recipe ahead of time. Simply cook the chicken as directed, then let it cool to room temperature before storing in the refrigerator or freezer. Reheat the chicken as desired, making sure to check the internal temperature to ensure that it reaches 165°F (74°C).

What are some variations of this recipe?

Some variations of this recipe include adding different herbs or spices to the brine, using chicken thighs or legs instead of breasts, or serving the chicken with a side of roasted vegetables or quinoa. You can also try using a mixture of olive oil and butter to brush the chicken, for a richer and more savory flavor.

How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?

To prevent the chicken from drying out, make sure to not overcook it and to let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. You can also try brushing the chicken with a mixture of olive oil and lemon juice during the last few minutes of cooking, to help keep it moist and flavorful.

Can I use this recipe for a crowd?

Yes, you can use this recipe for a crowd. Simply multiply the ingredients as needed, and cook the chicken in batches if necessary. Make sure to have enough brine and oil on hand, and to let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

The Full Recipe

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