Are you looking for a healthy and tasty grilled chicken recipe that’s easy to make and packed with flavor? Look no further than grilled lemon pepper chicken! This simple recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or hosting a barbecue with friends. In this article, we’ll show you step-by-step how to make this delicious dish, and discuss some of the health benefits of choosing grilled chicken over other types of meat.
Why Choose Grilled Chicken?
Grilled chicken is a healthier alternative to fried or processed meats, as it is lower in fat and calories, while still providing plenty of protein. In fact, a 3-ounce serving of grilled chicken breast contains just 140 calories and 26 grams of protein, making it an excellent choice for those looking to maintain a healthy diet. Additionally, grilling chicken can help to retain its natural flavors and juices, resulting in a delicious and tender dish.
Ingredients
To make grilled lemon pepper chicken, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 lemons, juiced and zested
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
Directions
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- In a small bowl, combine the lemon juice, zest, olive oil, garlic, salt, black pepper, paprika, and thyme.
- Place the chicken breasts in a large, shallow dish, and pour the lemon pepper marinade over them. Make sure each piece of chicken is coated evenly.
- Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours in the refrigerator.
- Once the chicken has marinated, remove it from the dish and discard any remaining marinade.
- Place the chicken on the grill and cook for 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the grill and allow it to rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Serving Suggestions
Grilled lemon pepper chicken pairs well with a variety of side dishes, such as grilled vegetables, roasted sweet potatoes, or a fresh green salad. You can also use the leftover chicken to make sandwiches or wraps for a quick and easy lunch option.
Health Benefits
Choosing grilled chicken over other types of meat can have several health benefits. For one, chicken is lower in fat and calories than red meat, which can help to maintain a healthy weight. It is also an excellent source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing muscle tissue. Additionally, chicken contains several essential vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin B6, vitamin B12, and potassium, which are important for overall health and wellbeing.
Conclusion
Grilled lemon pepper chicken is a delicious and healthy dish that’s perfect for any occasion. By choosing to grill your chicken instead of frying or using processed meats, you can enjoy all the flavor and nutrition without the added fat and calories. Try this recipe today and see for yourself how easy it is to make a healthy and delicious meal!
FAQs
- Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts for this recipe?
- Yes, you can use chicken thighs if you prefer. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- Can I marinate the chicken overnight?
- Yes, you can marinate the chicken for up to 24 hours in the refrigerator for even more flavor.
- Can I use fresh thyme instead of dried thyme?
Yes, you can use fresh thyme instead of dried thyme. Simply use three times the amount of fresh thyme as you would dried thyme in this recipe.
- Can I use a gas grill instead of a charcoal grill?
- Yes, you can use a gas grill for this recipe. Simply preheat your grill to medium-high heat and follow the cooking instructions as written.
- Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
- Yes, you can make this recipe ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat the chicken in the oven or on the grill before serving.