If you’re looking for a delicious, healthy dinner that’s packed with flavour and perfect for a balanced lifestyle, this Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken recipe ticks all the boxes. It’s simple to prepare, uses fresh ingredients, and is a great option for those looking to maintain a low-carb, wholefood diet.
This recipe is gluten-free, grain-free, dairy-free, and refined sugar-free, making it an excellent choice for clean eating. Serve it with your favourite fresh veggies or a crisp salad for a complete meal.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 60ml olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (from about half a lemon)
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary (or 1 teaspoon dried rosemary)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. This simple marinade gives the chicken a light and tangy flavour with a fresh herbaceous twist.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts in a shallow dish or a large resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring that each piece is well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for a deeper flavour infusion.
Step 3: Grill the Chicken
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Once ready, grill the marinated chicken breasts for 6-7 minutes on each side. Ensure the chicken is cooked through with an internal temperature of 75°C (165°F).
Step 4: Rest and Serve
Once grilled, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This step allows the juices to redistribute, making your chicken more tender and juicy. Serve with your choice of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a vibrant, nutritious meal.
Tips for the Best Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken
- Marinade time matters: While 30 minutes will do the trick, marinating for up to 4 hours will give you even more intense flavour.
- Fresh vs dried herbs: If you don’t have fresh herbs, dried ones work just fine. Just remember that dried herbs are more potent, so use less.
- Perfect sides: This chicken pairs beautifully with steamed broccoli, courgette, or roasted cauliflower, all of which are low-carb, nutrient-dense options. You can also opt for a fresh salad with leafy greens, cucumbers, and tomatoes, tossed with a light olive oil and lemon dressing.
Why This Meal is Perfect for a Low-Carb Lifestyle
This grilled chicken recipe is ideal for those following a low-carb or ketogenic lifestyle. The combination of protein-rich chicken and healthy fats from olive oil helps maintain energy levels and satiety throughout the day. It’s a simple, satisfying option that fits into a wholefoods-based diet.
Enjoy this wholesome, flavour-packed chicken recipe the next time you’re looking for a quick, nutritious meal that’s easy to prepare and bursting with fresh flavours. Happy cooking!