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Citrus-Marinated Grilled Chicken Breasts

Juicy chicken breasts are marinated in a bright citrus blend with garlic and herbs, then grilled to perfection with a smoky char. The result is tender, flavorful meat with a golden sear and slight caramelization, showcasing a balance of acidity, sweetness, and smoky aroma. This simple yet vibrant dish highlights the power of straightforward ingredients treated with care.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Grilled
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 pieces chicken breasts boneless, skinless
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice about 2 lemons
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil extra virgin preferred
  • 1 teaspoon salt kosher
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon paprika smoked if available
  • 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup optional, for caramelization
  • 1 tablespoon fresh herbs thyme or rosemary, chopped, optional

Equipment

  • Grill or grill pan
  • Meat mallet or rolling pin
  • Tongs
  • Instant-read thermometer
  • Bowl or zip-top bag

Method
 

  1. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels, then place them on a cutting board. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to gently pound each piece to an even thickness of about 1.5 inches, ensuring they cook uniformly and stay juicy.
  2. In a bowl or zip-top bag, whisk together fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, black pepper, paprika, and honey or maple syrup if using. This vibrant marinade will brighten and tenderize the chicken.
  3. Add the chicken breasts to the marinade, ensuring they are fully coated. Seal the bag or cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, ideally up to 2 hours, to allow flavors to meld and the citrus to tenderize the meat.
  4. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat, around 200°C (390°F). You want a hot surface to achieve a good sear without burning.
  5. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting excess drip off. Place the breasts on the hot grill and cook for about 6-8 minutes per side, until they develop a golden brown sear with slight charring and are cooked through.
  6. Use tongs to flip the chicken gently, checking for a nice caramelized surface. Insert an instant-read thermometer into the thickest part; it should read 74°C (165°F) to ensure they’re safe and juicy.
  7. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate and let it rest for 5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the meat tender and moist.
  8. Slice the chicken breasts against the grain and serve immediately, with a squeeze of fresh lemon or herbs if desired, to enhance the bright, smoky flavors.

Notes

Adjust marinade time and grill temperature as needed based on your equipment. For extra flavor, sprinkle chopped herbs or a dash of smoked paprika before serving.