Simple Lemon Garlic Chicken

Name: Simple Lemon Garlic Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1/4 cup olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; Juice of 2 lemons; Zest of 1 lemon; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

I absolutely love making Simple Lemon Garlic Chicken because it's such a quick and tasty dish that bursts with fresh flavors. The combination of lemon and garlic creates a zesty marinade that perfectly complements the tender chicken. It’s a dish I can whip up in under an hour, making it ideal for busy weeknights or an effortless dinner party. Plus, the aroma that fills the kitchen while it cooks is simply irresistible. I often serve it with a side of roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-16T15:54:19.451Z

When I first tried this recipe, I was amazed at how such simple ingredients could create such a vibrant dish. The key to my success was letting the chicken marinate in the lemon garlic mixture for as long as possible, ideally overnight. This not only enhances the flavor but also keeps the chicken moist and tender during cooking. I always recommend using fresh garlic and lemons for the best taste!

One day, I decided to experiment by adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade for a little heat, and it transformed the dish beautifully! It added a lovely balance that I now find indispensable. If you love a kick of spice, feel free to adjust to your liking!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Bright and zesty lemon flavor with a hint of garlic
Quick preparation—perfect for busy weeknights
Can easily be paired with various sides for a full meal

      

Mastering the Marinade

Marinating the chicken in the lemon-garlic mixture is critical for achieving flavor depth. The acidity from the lemon juice not only imparts a bright flavor but also helps to tenderize the chicken. Be sure to let it marinate for at least 15 minutes, but if you have time, letting it sit for several hours or even overnight in the refrigerator will give you a much more flavorful result. Just remember to keep it sealed to avoid contamination.

The inclusion of fresh garlic is essential to this recipe, as it adds a robust flavor that balances out the tanginess of the lemon. If you prefer a milder garlic taste, consider reducing the amount to two cloves, or if you're a garlic lover, feel free to add an extra clove. Just ensure it's finely minced to blend seamlessly into the marinade.

Cooking Techniques

For the best results, preheating your grill or skillet is crucial. Aim for medium-high heat, which allows the chicken to sear properly, creating a nice golden crust that seals in the juices. Cooking for about 6-7 minutes on each side should give you perfectly cooked chicken, but keep an eye on the internal temperature, which should reach 165°F (75°C). Overcooking can lead to dryness, so use a meat thermometer for accuracy.

If you notice the chicken sticking to the grill or skillet, it may not be fully cooked yet. Allow it to cook until you can see that golden color before attempting to flip it. For added flavor, you might consider basting it with some of the reserved marinade during the last minute of cooking, bringing that zesty flavor directly to the surface.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create this delicious lemon garlic chicken:

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1/4 cup olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
Juice of 2 lemons
Zest of 1 lemon
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

With these ingredients on hand, you're ready to make a delightful meal!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your lemon garlic chicken:

Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, whisk together the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, pepper, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag and pour the marinade over them. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes, or up to overnight for maximum flavor.

Cook the Chicken

Preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off. Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Rest and Serve

Once cooked, remove the chicken from the heat and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve with your favorite sides and enjoy your delicious Simple Lemon Garlic Chicken!

Enjoy your meal and share it with loved ones!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding fresh herbs such as parsley or basil as a garnish before serving. You can also grill or roast vegetables alongside the chicken to complement the dish. If you're preparing this for a crowd, you can easily double the recipe without any difficulty!

Serving Suggestions

This Simple Lemon Garlic Chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. I recommend serving it alongside roasted vegetables, such as asparagus or bell peppers, which not only complement the brightness of the dish but also add color to your plate. A light quinoa or couscous salad would be a great alternative, providing a contrasting texture and earthy flavor.

If you're looking to switch things up, consider a simple green salad with a lemon vinaigrette to echo the chicken’s flavors. This will maintain the freshness and lightness of the meal, making it a perfect option for summer dinners or casual gatherings.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

For meal prep enthusiasts, this chicken can be marinated a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator, making weeknight dinners a breeze. Cooked chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. It also freezes well, so if you have leftovers, consider portioning them into individual meal containers for easy thawing and reheating later.

To reheat, it's best to use an oven set to 350°F (175°C) to preserve the chicken's juiciness. Warm it for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through, avoiding the microwave if possible as it can lead to a rubbery texture. Thaw frozen chicken overnight in the fridge before reheating for the best results.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use bone-in chicken instead?

Yes, just adjust the cooking time as bone-in chicken generally requires a longer cook time.

→ What can I serve with this chicken?

This chicken pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken a day in advance for enhanced flavor.

→ Is it possible to freeze the marinated chicken?

Yes, you can freeze the marinated chicken for up to 3 months. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge before cooking.