Description
This Lemon Lime Chicken recipe features tender, juicy boneless skinless chicken breasts marinated in a zesty blend of olive oil, fresh lemon and lime juice, garlic, and diced onion. The chicken is grilled to perfection at 400ºF, delivering vibrant citrus flavors balanced with aromatic garlic and spices. Ideal for a refreshing summer meal with a bright, tangy profile.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Marinade
- 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 6 small pieces)
- 1 cup olive oil
- 1/3 cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1/3 cup lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic (about 2 cloves)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, lime juice, minced garlic, diced onion, salt, and pepper. Whisk the ingredients together thoroughly to create a flavorful marinade.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the boneless skinless chicken breasts into a large Ziploc or resealable plastic bag. Pour the prepared marinade over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are well coated. Seal the bag tightly and refrigerate for 8 to 12 hours to allow the flavors to fully penetrate the meat.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to 400ºF (about medium-high heat), ensuring it is properly cleaned and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.
- Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess drip off. Place the chicken breasts on the preheated grill and cook for approximately 10 minutes on each side. Check for doneness by confirming the internal temperature reaches 165ºF, ensuring the chicken is no longer pink inside.
- Rest and Serve: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and allow it to rest for 3 to 5 minutes. This resting period lets the juices redistribute, making the chicken moist and tender. Optionally, garnish with freshly snipped cilantro or parsley and serve with lemon and lime wedges for extra brightness.
Notes
- Marinating the chicken for at least 8 hours or overnight enhances flavor and tenderness.
- If you don’t have a grill, the chicken can be cooked under a broiler or on a grill pan.
- Always use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken has reached the safe internal temperature of 165ºF.
- Fresh lemon and lime juice provide the best flavor; avoid bottled juices if possible.
- Letting the chicken rest after cooking keeps it juicy and flavorful.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Lemon Lime Chicken, grilled chicken, citrus chicken marinade, healthy chicken recipe, summer chicken
