Description
Tuscan Lemon Chicken is a vibrant and juicy Italian classic, marinated with fresh lemon, rosemary, and garlic, then grilled to smoky perfection. The bright citrus and herbaceous notes deliver a simple yet sophisticated flavor that pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes, making it the perfect main-course for summer gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
For the Marinade:
- 1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
- 1 tablespoon finely grated lemon zest
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary leaves, chopped
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 2 lbs)
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced (optional, for garnish/grilling)
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, rosemary, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a large zip-top bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are coated. Seal or cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, ideally up to 4 hours for best flavor.
- Preheat the Grill: Preheat an outdoor grill (or grill pan) over medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
- Grill the Chicken: Remove chicken from marinade, letting excess drip off. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side, or until grill marks appear and the internal temperature reaches 165ยฐF (74ยฐC). Optionally, grill lemon slices alongside for garnish.
- Rest and Serve: Transfer the chicken to a platter and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Garnish with grilled lemon slices and a sprinkle of fresh rosemary, if desired.
Notes
- For more intense flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.
- Bone-in, skin-on chicken can also be used; adjust grill times accordingly.
- Serve with grilled vegetables, roasted potatoes, or a crisp leafy salad.
- This recipe can also be made on a stovetop grill pan if outdoor grilling isn’t available.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 120mg