Tender, juicy, and packed with fresh flavors, Rosemary Lemon Grilled Chicken is a perfect dish for summer barbecues or a light, healthy dinner. The combination of zesty lemon, aromatic rosemary, and smoky grilled chicken creates an irresistible meal that’s both simple and delicious.
Origin Rosemary Lemon Grilled Chicken
Grilled chicken has been a culinary staple across cultures for centuries, but the combination of rosemary and lemon has strong Mediterranean roots. This flavor pairing is widely used in Greek and Italian cuisines, where fresh herbs and citrus are essential components of marinades.
What I Love About This Recipe
The balance of flavors in this dish is simply amazing. The lemon adds brightness, the rosemary brings an earthy depth, and the grilling gives it that perfect smoky char. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it ideal for weeknights or weekend gatherings.
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Rosemary Lemon Grilled Chicken
6
servings10
minutes30
minutes250
kcalIngredients
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or 4 chicken thighs)
3 tablespoons olive oil
Juice of 1 large lemon
Zest of 1 lemon
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried rosemary)
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
Directions
- In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, rosemary, salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Place the chicken in a resealable bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over it. Coat well and let it marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes (or up to 24 hours for deeper flavor).
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (about 375-400°F). Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
- Remove the chicken from the marinade and shake off excess liquid. Grill for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- If you don’t have a grill, cook the chicken in a grill pan or bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes.
- For extra juiciness, pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness before marinating.
- Pairs well with grilled vegetables, quinoa, or a fresh green salad.
