Simple Lemon Thyme Grilled Chicken

Name: Simple Lemon Thyme Grilled Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 3 tablespoons olive oil; Juice and zest of 1 large lemon; 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves (or 1 tablespoon dried thyme); Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Healthy Recipe Ideas

I’m thrilled to share my favorite go-to recipe for Simple Lemon Thyme Grilled Chicken. This dish transforms ordinary chicken into a flavor-packed meal with just a handful of ingredients. The fresh lemon juice and thyme make it irresistibly fragrant, while the grilling technique locks in moisture, resulting in juicy, tender bites every single time. It’s perfect for summer barbecues or a quick weeknight dinner. I often serve it with a light salad for a refreshing and satisfying meal.

Created by

Emma Johnson

Last updated on 2026-02-07T21:29:28.128Z

When I first tried my hand at grilling chicken, I quickly learned that the key to success lies in the marinade. I decided to use lemon and thyme for a fresh, aromatic flavor that perfectly complements the chicken. After trying various combinations, I found that letting the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes intensifies the taste and makes the final dish truly outstanding. Grilling it at the right temperature allowed the chicken to achieve that beautiful caramelization without overcooking.

One tip I highly recommend is to always let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. This simple step allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more succulent bite. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply enjoying a family dinner, this recipe is sure to become a cherished favorite in your household!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Bright, zesty flavors that brighten up any meal
Juicy chicken with a perfectly charred exterior
Quick and easy to prepare, making weeknight dinners a breeze

Perfecting Your Marinade

The marinade for this Simple Lemon Thyme Grilled Chicken is the heart of the dish, infusing the chicken with bright citrus and herbal flavors. Fresh lemon juice not only adds a zesty flavor but also helps tenderize the meat, so don't skip the marination step! For maximum flavor, aim for at least 30 minutes of marinating time, but if you can, let it sit for 2 hours or even overnight in the refrigerator. This allows the chicken to absorb the aromatics, resulting in juicier and more flavorful bites.

When mixing the marinade, ensure you whisk it until well combined and glossy. This helps emulsify the olive oil with the lemon juice, creating a cohesive flavor profile. Feel free to experiment with the proportions; if you love lemon, add a bit more zest. If thyme isn't your favorite, you can substitute with rosemary or oregano for a different yet delicious twist!

The Grilling Process

Grilling is where the magic happens. For the best results, preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 400-450°F (204-232°C). This temperature ensures that the chicken develops a beautiful char while remaining juicy inside. A visual cue to look for is the grill marks becoming pronounced and the surface of the meat turning golden brown. If the chicken is sticking to the grill, give it a little more time before attempting to flip—it should release easily when properly seared.

Cooking time will vary slightly depending on the thickness of your chicken breasts. Aim for about 6-8 minutes per side for an even cook. Using a meat thermometer can simplify your grilling; you want the internal temperature to reach 165°F (74°C). After removing the chicken from the grill, allow it to rest for 5 minutes. This step is crucial as it lets the juices redistribute, ensuring no dry bites when you slice into the chicken.

Serving and Storing

Once grilled to perfection, this chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. A light salad, quinoa, or grilled vegetables all complement the bright lemon and herb flavors. You can make it a hearty meal by adding a starch, like garlic mashed potatoes or couscous. Feel free to drizzle some extra lemon juice over the top right before serving for an extra punch of freshness, or add a sprinkle of fresh thyme to garnish.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the cooked chicken for up to 3 months. Just ensure it's cooled completely before freezing. To reheat, do so gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist, or microwave in short bursts to avoid drying out.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
3 tablespoons olive oil
Juice and zest of 1 large lemon
2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves (or 1 tablespoon dried thyme)
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.

Instructions

Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, thyme, salt, and pepper to create a marinade.

Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Seal or cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Preheat the Grill

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Make sure to lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.

Grill the Chicken

Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the remaining marinade. Grill the chicken for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and nicely charred.

Rest and Serve

Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve hot with your favorite sides.

Enjoy the delicious grilled chicken with a squeeze of fresh lemon on top!

Pro Tips

For additional flavor, try adding minced garlic to the marinade or serve with a lemon herb sauce.

Ingredient Variations

While this recipe shines with lemon and thyme, consider experimenting with different citrus fruits. Lime or orange juice can impart unique flavor notes, adding a refreshing twist to the dish. Additionally, if you’re looking to make it vegan, you can substitute the chicken with firm tofu or portobello mushrooms, adding the same marinade for flavor.

If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade or serve the grilled chicken with a side of spicy dipping sauce. Adjusting the herbs can also create different flavor profiles; parsley or cilantro are excellent substitutes that work well with the lemon.

Tips for Grilling Success

To prevent the chicken from drying out, monitor the grill temperature closely. If you notice that the grill is too hot, reduce the heat slightly or move the chicken to a cooler part of the grill. If using a charcoal grill, arranging the coals for indirect heat can also help manage the temperature effectively while grilling thicker cuts.

Another tip is to use a meat mallet to gently pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness before marinating. This ensures that they cook uniformly, reducing the chances of having some parts over-cooked while others remain underdone. Consistency is key to achieving juicy chicken with even grill marks.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use bone-in chicken?

Yes, just adjust the cooking time as bone-in chicken may take a bit longer to cook through.

→ Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! The grilled chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and is great for salads or sandwiches.

→ Can I bake this chicken instead of grilling?

Yes, you can bake the marinated chicken at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes or until fully cooked.

→ What sides go well with this dish?

This chicken pairs well with roasted vegetables, a refreshing salad, or rice for a complete meal.