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Grilled Chicken With Herbs

Category: Satisfying Main Dishes

Experience the vibrant flavors of grilled chicken elevated by a blend of rosemary, thyme, oregano, and lemon. Marinating the chicken in aromatic herbs and olive oil creates juicy, charred meat with every bite. The marinade not only infuses the chicken with fresh, herbaceous notes but also keeps it deliciously moist during grilling. Simple to prepare and endlessly adaptable, this dish shines alongside crisp salads or savory sides. Let the marinade do the work, preheat your grill, and enjoy a meal that brings out the best in humble chicken using timeless techniques and fresh ingredients.

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Updated on Thu, 29 May 2025 22:30:16 GMT
A plate of grilled chicken with herbs. Pin
A plate of grilled chicken with herbs. | easydiyrecipes.com

You are about to try grilled chicken with herbs because you crave something both easy and flavorful without much fuss. In just a short time, olive oil, lemon, and fresh aromatics work their magic to transform basic chicken into a show-stopping main with a hint of char and an herby burst in every bite. Every time I make this my family thinks I have done something special when really it is all about the simple blend and a hot grill.

The first time I made this was on a summer evening with friends and it instantly became my grilled chicken go-to because nobody could stop talking about it

Ingredients

  • Boneless skinless chicken breasts: choose plump and firm pieces for juiciness
  • Olive oil: coats the chicken and helps herbs stick use good extra-virgin for maximum flavor
  • Fresh rosemary thyme oregano and parsley: these bring bright herby taste choose fresh stems that are perky and fragrant
  • Fresh garlic: for punchy depth look for firm unblemished cloves
  • Lemon juice: adds brightness always use freshly squeezed for best results
  • Salt and pepper: essential for balance and a crisp finish go for kosher salt and fresh ground black pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions

Make the Marinade:
Mix olive oil chopped herbs minced garlic lemon juice salt and pepper in a wide shallow bowl until evenly combined the aroma should be bright and inviting
Marinate the Chicken:
Place chicken breasts in the marinade press to fully coat every side cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes but up to 2 hours for more flavor
Prep the Grill:
Heat your grill to medium-high and brush the grates well with oil this wards off sticking and helps get those grill marks
Grill the Chicken:
Lift chicken from marinade let excess drip off and place directly on hot grates grill for six to eight minutes per side turning once use tongs to check for a golden sear and clear juices
Rest and Serve:
Remove chicken to a plate and let it rest uncovered for five minutes which helps juices redistribute and keeps it tender
A plate of grilled chicken with herbs. Pin
A plate of grilled chicken with herbs. | easydiyrecipes.com

Grilled chicken with herbs always reminds me of the holiday barbecues at my aunt’s house where everyone rushed outside when the grill lid opened and that wave of herby aroma filled the backyard

Storage tips

Keep leftovers covered in the fridge for up to three days Slice any extra and use in wraps grain bowls or topping for salads You can reheat gently or eat cold Both work great This chicken also freezes beautifully Seal tightly and thaw overnight in the fridge

Ingredient substitutions

Boneless thighs work in place of breasts and bring extra juiciness Try basil or cilantro for a different herbal twist If out of lemon lime juice or a splash of vinegar works in a pinch For richer flavor swap half the olive oil with plain yogurt in the marinade

Serving suggestions

Pair with couscous grilled veggies or a big Greek salad I love adding a drizzle of tzatziki or just a squeeze of fresh lemon It is also delicious tucked into soft pita bread with crunchy lettuce and tomatoes

A bowl of chicken with herbs. Pin
A bowl of chicken with herbs. | easydiyrecipes.com

Cultural context

This method has roots stretching back to the Mediterranean where grilling over open flames and seasoning with local herbs created a style of chicken that traveled around the world Today those same essentials bring us together at every backyard cookout

Recipe FAQs

→ What herbs pair best with grilled chicken?

Classic options like rosemary, thyme, oregano, and parsley provide bright, earthy flavors that complement grilled chicken beautifully.

→ How long should chicken marinate for maximum flavor?

Allow chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes and up to 2 hours to fully absorb the herb and lemon marinade.

→ What's the ideal grilling time for chicken breasts?

Grill boneless chicken breasts over medium-high heat for 6-8 minutes per side, ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

→ How can I prevent grilled chicken from drying out?

Marinating beforehand, preheating the grill, and not overcooking help maintain juicy, tender grilled chicken every time.

→ Can I use other cuts of chicken?

Yes, thighs or drumsticks work well—simply adjust the grilling time based on thickness and make sure to cook through.

→ What sides complement grilled chicken with herbs?

Fresh green salads, roasted vegetables, or rice pilaf all pair excellently with the herby, savory chicken flavors.

Grilled Chicken With Herbs

Herb-marinated grilled chicken bursts with juicy, lemony flavor—perfect with salad, roasted vegetables, or rice.

Prep Time
10 min
Cook Time
16 min
Total Time
26 min
By: Evelyn

Category: Main Dishes

Skill Level: Easy

Cuisine: Mediterranean

Yield: 4 Servings

Dietary Preferences: Low-Carb, Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free

Ingredients

→ Marinade

01 60 ml extra virgin olive oil
02 30 ml freshly squeezed lemon juice
03 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
04 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
05 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, finely chopped
06 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, finely chopped
07 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
08 1 teaspoon sea salt
09 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

→ Chicken

10 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (approximately 150 g each)

Steps

Step 01

In a shallow dish, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, rosemary, thyme, oregano, parsley, sea salt, and black pepper until thoroughly combined.

Step 02

Place chicken breasts in the marinade, ensuring each piece is fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for 30 to 120 minutes to allow flavors to infuse.

Step 03

Clean grill grates and preheat to medium-high heat (200–220°C) for consistent cooking surface.

Step 04

Remove chicken breasts from marinade, discarding excess liquid. Pat chicken dry with paper towels and season both sides lightly with additional salt and pepper if desired.

Step 05

Grill chicken over direct heat for 6 to 8 minutes per side, until the internal temperature reaches 74°C and juices run clear. Avoid moving the chicken excessively for optimal grill marks.

Step 06

Transfer cooked chicken to a clean plate and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve hot, garnished with extra fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

  1. For maximum tenderness, do not marinate chicken longer than 2 hours; acidic lemon juice can toughen the meat if left too long.
  2. A meat thermometer ensures the chicken is cooked safely without overcooking.
  3. Try pairing with seasonal vegetables, a green salad, or whole grain pilaf for a balanced meal.

Tools Required

  • Grill or grill pan
  • Mixing bowl or shallow dish
  • Tongs
  • Cutting board
  • Meat thermometer

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

These details are for informational purposes only and shouldn’t replace professional medical advice.
  • Calories: 280
  • Fats: 11 g
  • Carbohydrates: 2 g
  • Proteins: 42 g