Grilled or Broiled Lemon Thyme Chicken Breasts
Infused with the vibrant flavors of lemon and fresh thyme, these grilled or broiled chicken breasts are a simple yet elegant recipe perfect for any occasion. Tender, juicy, and perfectly seasoned, the chicken is marinated in a zesty blend of olive oil, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, and thyme, ensuring every bite bursts with refreshing citrus and herbal notes. Whether you're searing them to perfection on the grill or achieving a golden char under the broiler, this recipe requires minimal prep time and delivers maximum flavor. Ideal for everything from weeknight dinners to summer cookouts, pair this delightful dish with roasted vegetables, a crisp salad, or fluffy rice for a complete and satisfying meal.
Try SnapCalorie's FREE AI assisted nutrition tracking free in the App store or on Android.
Scan with your phone to download!
Ingredients
- 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves
- 2 cloves garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
Directions
Step 1
1. Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper and pound them lightly with a meat mallet until they are an even thickness (about 1 inch).
Step 2
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, fresh thyme leaves, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper to make the marinade.
Step 3
3. Place the chicken breasts in a large resealable bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are evenly coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 8 hours for more flavor.
Step 4
4. If grilling, preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375–400°F). If broiling, preheat your oven's broiler and position the rack about 6 inches from the heat source.
Step 5
5. Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard any remaining marinade. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels to promote even browning.
Step 6
6. For grilling: Lightly oil the grill grates and grill the chicken breasts for 5–7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). For broiling: Place the chicken on a broiler pan or a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil and cook for 6–8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Step 7
7. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the heat and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps retain the juices.
Step 8
8. Garnish with additional fresh thyme, lemon slices, or a sprinkle of lemon zest, if desired. Serve with your favorite sides.
Nutrition Facts
| Serving size | (797.1g) |
|---|
| Amount per serving | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|
| Calories | 1549.2 |
| Total Fat 67.2g | 0% |
| Saturated Fat 13.5g | 0% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat 4.0g | |
| Cholesterol 591.6mg | 0% |
| Sodium 2878.3mg | 0% |
| Total Carbohydrate 6.0g | 0% |
| Dietary Fiber 0.7g | 0% |
| Total Sugars 1.1g | |
| Protein 216.4g | 0% |
| Vitamin D 7.0IU | 0% |
| Calcium 99.0mg | 0% |
| Iron 7.1mg | 0% |
| Potassium 1870.7mg | 0% |
Source of Calories