Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest (zest from 1 lemon)
- 2 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon honey (optional for a touch of sweetness)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Marinade:
- In a medium-sized bowl, combine the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, freshly ground black pepper, sea salt, minced garlic, dried oregano, and dried thyme. If you prefer a slightly sweet marinade, add a teaspoon of honey and mix well until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Marinate the Chicken:
- Place the chicken breasts in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish.
- Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, but preferably 2-4 hours. For maximum flavor, you can marinate the chicken overnight.
- Preheat the Grill or Oven:
- If grilling, preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- If baking, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Grill the Chicken:
- Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off.
- If grilling, place the chicken breasts on the preheated grill. Cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- If baking, place the chicken breasts in a baking dish and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Rest and Serve:
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill or oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring a moist and flavorful chicken.
- Slice the chicken and serve it with your favorite sides, such as a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or a light quinoa salad.
Tips:
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the marinade in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Marinating Time: While 30 minutes is the minimum recommended marinating time, marinating overnight will yield the best results in terms of flavor.
- Cooking Variations: This marinade is versatile and can also be used for bone-in chicken pieces, chicken thighs, or even chicken wings. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
Benefits:
- Flavorful: The combination of lemon and pepper provides a bright, zesty, and slightly spicy flavor that enhances the natural taste of the chicken.
- Healthy: Olive oil and lemon juice are healthier alternatives to heavier marinades, making this a lighter option without compromising on taste.
- Versatile: This marinade pairs well with various side dishes and can be used for grilling, baking, or even pan-searing the chicken.
- Simple: With just a few pantry staples, you can create a delicious marinade that requires minimal preparation time.
Conclusion:
The Lemon Pepper Chicken Marinade is a simple yet flavorful way to elevate your everyday chicken dish. With the zesty brightness of lemon, the subtle heat of freshly ground black pepper, and the aromatic herbs, this marinade transforms ordinary chicken into a succulent and delicious meal. Its versatility allows you to grill, bake, or pan-sear the chicken, making it suitable for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or hosting a weekend barbecue, this marinade promises to deliver a burst of flavor with every bite. Enjoy the health benefits of olive oil and lemon, and delight in the ease of preparation. Serve this marinated chicken with your favorite sides for a meal that’s sure to impress family and friends alike. Happy cooking!
Enjoy your Lemon Pepper Chicken with family and friends, and savor the fresh, vibrant flavors!