Grilled Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe

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Cook Time: 20 minutes

Grilled Lemon Garlic Chicken

Servings: 4

Preparation Time: 1 hour (including marinating time)

Cooking Time: 20-24 minutes

Ingredients:

• cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 3 large cloves garlic, finely grated
• 2 tablespoons canola oil
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt
• 2 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper
• 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard, or to taste
• 2 (10 ounce) skinless, boneless chicken breasts
• Lemon wedges for serving

Directions:

1. Begin by gathering all of the ingredients. Make sure everything is within reach before starting the preparation.
2. In a medium bowl, combine the lemon juice, grated garlic, canola oil, chopped rosemary, kosher salt, black pepper, and Dijon mustard. Stir until the mixture is well combined and smooth.
3. Using a fork, prick each chicken breast about 8 to 10 times on both sides. This helps the marinade to absorb more effectively.
4. Place the chicken breasts into the bowl with the lemon marinade. Toss the chicken in the marinade, ensuring it's evenly coated. Use your hands to gently massage the mixture into the chicken, ensuring its well absorbed.
5. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld and the chicken to marinate.
6. While the chicken is marinating, preheat your outdoor grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
7. Once the grill is ready, place the marinated chicken breasts onto the oiled grates. Grill the chicken, covered, for 10 to 12 minutes per side. The chicken should be lightly charred on the outside and no longer pink in the center. The internal temperature should reach 165F (74C) when checked with an instant-read thermometer.
8. When cooked, transfer the chicken breasts to a serving platter. Serve with fresh lemon wedges on the side for a zesty finishing touch.

Nutrition Facts (per serving):

Calories	234
Total Fat	9g
Saturated Fat	1g
Cholesterol	82mg
Sodium	1356mg
Total Carbohydrate	4g
Dietary Fiber	1g
Protein	33g
Potassium	415mg

Note: Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your individual calorie needs.

Recipe Author: John Somerall

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 85 minutes

Servings: 4

Calories: 234 kcal per serving

Introduction

Grilled Lemon Pepper Chicken is a fresh and flavorful dish that combines the tangy brightness of lemon with the bold heat of black pepper. Its a simple yet delicious option for summer dinners, often served with a side of vegetables or a light salad. This recipe is quick to prepare, making it perfect for a weeknight meal or a weekend barbecue. Its a healthy, protein-packed dish with a delightful zesty kick that everyone will love.

History of Grilled Lemon Pepper Chicken

The origin of lemon pepper chicken can be traced to the global love for grilled chicken and citrus-based marinades. The combination of lemon and pepper is a staple in many cuisines, from Mediterranean to American. While its precise origin is difficult to pinpoint, this dish is commonly associated with American cuisine, particularly in southern states, where grilling and bold flavors reign supreme. The inclusion of fresh herbs like rosemary adds an aromatic touch that elevates this otherwise simple recipe.

Regional Variations

In different regions, the method of preparing lemon pepper chicken varies. In Southern America, you might find it paired with spicy rubs or served with mashed potatoes and gravy. In the Mediterranean, the dish may include additional herbs like thyme or oregano and is often served alongside couscous or grilled vegetables. The use of mustard and rosemary, as seen in this recipe, adds a more contemporary twist to the traditional lemon pepper flavors.

What Sets It Apart

Grilled Lemon Pepper Chicken stands out from similar dishes because of its refreshing citrus flavor, combined with the robust, earthy notes of black pepper and rosemary. Compared to other grilled chicken dishes, the lemon pepper marinade is less heavy, allowing the natural taste of the chicken to shine through. Unlike some recipes that rely on creamy or sugary sauces, the simplicity of lemon juice and mustard creates a clean, bright taste that balances perfectly with the grilled char of the meat.

Where Its Typically Served

This dish is commonly served at casual outdoor gatherings, barbecues, and summer cookouts. Its bright flavor makes it a perfect companion to light salads, roasted vegetables, and rice pilaf. Grilled Lemon Pepper Chicken is often featured on restaurant menus as part of a healthy grilled meat section or as a light dinner option. It is especially popular in regions where grilling is a favored cooking method, such as in the United States, Mediterranean countries, and parts of Australia.

Fun Facts

• The lemon pepper seasoning, used in many variations of this dish, is believed to have originated in the Mediterranean region, where lemons have been cultivated for centuries.
• Lemon pepper is a staple spice blend in many cuisines worldwide, known for adding a tangy, peppery kick to meats, vegetables, and even fish.
• In addition to being delicious, lemon pepper chicken is low in fat and high in protein, making it a popular choice for those looking to eat healthier or follow a low-carb diet.
• Although lemon pepper chicken is best grilled, it can also be baked or pan-fried for a quick meal.

Conclusion

Grilled Lemon Pepper Chicken is a flavorful, easy-to-make dish that has captured the hearts of many chicken lovers worldwide. Its unique blend of zesty lemon and bold black pepper, combined with the fresh taste of rosemary, makes it an ideal choice for summer meals or whenever you need a quick and healthy dinner option. Whether served at a casual BBQ or as a family dinner, this dish is sure to impress with its bright and bold flavors.

FAQ about Grilled Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe