Get ready to elevate your grilling game with a Mediterranean-inspired dish that promises to transform an ordinary chicken dinner into an extraordinary culinary experience! This Grilled Lemon Mint Chicken is not just a recipe; it's a flavor explosion that combines the bright, zesty notes of fresh lemon with the cool, refreshing essence of mint. Perfect for summer gatherings or a quick weeknight meal, this recipe will have your family and friends begging for seconds and wondering how you became such a cooking maestro.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons fresh mint, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to ensure proper seasoning and grilling.
- In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together fresh lemon juice, chopped mint, olive oil, salt, and pepper to create a marinade.
- Place chicken breasts in a large resealable plastic bag and pour the marinade over them, ensuring each piece is evenly coated. Seal the bag and refrigerate for 15-30 minutes to allow flavors to penetrate.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 375-400°F), cleaning and lightly oiling the grates to prevent sticking.
- Remove chicken from marinade and discard remaining liquid. Pat chicken dry once more to promote better grill marks.
- Grill chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F, checking with a meat thermometer.
- Remove chicken from grill and let rest for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute, ensuring moist and tender meat.
- Garnish with additional fresh mint leaves and serve hot with your choice of side dishes like roasted vegetables or herbed rice.
Tips
- Marination Magic: Don't rush the marinating process. The 15-30 minute window allows the chicken to absorb maximum flavor without breaking down the meat's texture.
- Temperature is Key: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F. This guarantees juicy, perfectly cooked chicken every time.
- Pat Dry for Perfect Grill Marks: Removing excess moisture before grilling helps achieve those beautiful, appetizing char lines and prevents steaming.
- Let It Rest: Always allow your chicken to rest for 5 minutes after grilling. This helps redistribute the juices, keeping the meat tender and moist.
- Fresh Herbs Matter: Use freshly chopped mint for the most vibrant flavor. If possible, use mint from your garden or a local farmer's market for an extra flavor punch.
- Grill Preparation: Clean and oil your grill grates before cooking to prevent sticking and ensure easy chicken removal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 220kcal
Carbohydrates: 2g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 90mg
