Grilled bone-in chicken breasts offer a fantastic combination of flavor, tenderness, and juiciness that’s hard to beat. When paired with a bright and zesty lemon-garlic marinade, they become the perfect go-to dish for summer barbecues or a family dinner. The natural fat from the skin and the richness imparted by the bone ensure the chicken stays moist throughout grilling, while the marinade brings a tangy, herbaceous flavor that makes every bite irresistible. Let’s dive into the recipe for Grilled Bone-In Chicken Breasts with a Lemon-Garlic Marinade and discover how to prepare this delicious dish step by step.
Why Choose Bone-In Chicken Breasts?
Bone-in chicken breasts are a great option for grilling because the bone adds flavor and helps keep the meat moist during cooking. The skin becomes crispy, adding another layer of texture to the juicy chicken. Grilling bone-in chicken breasts ensures you get a perfect balance between flavor and tenderness.
Lemon-Garlic Marinated Grilled Bone-In Chicken Breasts
Before we get started, here’s everything you’ll need to make this mouthwatering recipe:
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 3 tablespoons of freshly squeezed lemon juice, which typically comes from one large lemon.
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon of finely chopped fresh rosemary (or 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary) can be used.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon honey (optional) for a touch of sweetness
- Lemon wedges and fresh parsley for serving
Step-by-Step Instructions for Grilled Bone-In Chicken Breasts
Step 1: Prepare the Lemon-Garlic Marinade
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, rosemary, oregano, salt, pepper, and honey (if using). This combination will infuse the chicken with rich, savory flavors and just a hint of sweetness.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Place the bone-in chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Drizzle the marinade over the chicken, making sure every piece is thoroughly coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for 2-4 hours, but you can even leave it overnight for maximum infusion.
Pro Tip: If you’re short on time, try marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes. However, longer marinating times will yield more intense flavors.
Step 3: Preheat the Grill
While the chicken marinates, preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375°F or 190°C). Ensure that the grill grates are clean, and brush them with oil to prevent the chicken from sticking.
Step 4: Grill the Chicken
Lift the chicken breasts out of the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip away. Grill the chicken breasts skin-side down for about 6-8 minutes per side. The goal is to get a beautiful char on the skin while ensuring that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Use a meat thermometer to check the thickest part of the chicken breast without touching the bone for an accurate reading.
Pro Tip: For perfectly cooked chicken, sear the breasts over direct heat first to get that crispy skin, then move them to indirect heat to finish cooking without burning the exterior.
Step 5: Let It Rest
Once the chicken reaches 165°F, transfer it to a plate and cover loosely with aluminum foil. Let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring juicy, tender chicken.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Serve the grilled bone-in chicken breasts with lemon wedges and a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley. Pair it with a side of grilled vegetables, a fresh salad, or roasted potatoes for a complete meal.
Baking Tips for Perfect Grilled Chicken Breasts
- Use a Meat Thermometer: Bone-in chicken breasts can be a bit tricky to cook evenly. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure they’ve reached the safe internal temperature of 165°F. Avoid cutting into the chicken while it’s still on the grill, as this can release the juices and dry out the meat.
- Crispy Skin Secret: If you want ultra-crispy skin, don’t skip the step of grilling the chicken skin-side down over direct heat. The high heat will render the fat from the skin, making it beautifully crispy.
- Marinate Overnight for Maximum Flavor: The longer the chicken marinates, the deeper the flavors will penetrate the meat. Preparing the marinade the night before and letting the chicken soak overnight will make a big difference.
- Lemon Zest Boosts Citrus Flavor: Don’t skip the lemon zest! It provides a bright and vibrant flavor that enhances the citrusy notes of the marinade, making the chicken more aromatic and refreshing.
Customizing Your Lemon-Garlic Marinade
The lemon-garlic marinade used in this recipe is a classic combination that pairs well with the natural richness of the chicken. However, you can easily customize it to suit your taste or dietary preferences.
- Add a Spicy Kick: For a touch of heat, add 1/2 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the marinade.
- Herb Variations: Feel free to swap out the rosemary and oregano for other fresh herbs like thyme, basil, or parsley. Fresh herbs bring a pop of freshness to the dish and can be adapted based on what you have on hand.
- Sweeten It Up: If you like a hint of sweetness, the honey in the marinade balances the acidity of the lemon. You can also substitute it with maple syrup or agave nectar for a different flavor twist.
Perfect Pairings for Grilled Bone-In Chicken Breasts
Grilled chicken breasts can be served with a variety of side dishes to create a complete meal. Here are a few pairing ideas:
- Grilled Vegetables: Try grilling zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus alongside the chicken for a colorful and healthy side dish.
- Roasted Potatoes: Oven-roasted potatoes with rosemary and garlic make a hearty accompaniment to the juicy chicken.
- Rice Pilaf: A light and fluffy rice pilaf with herbs and lemon would complement the citrus notes in the chicken marinade.
- Fresh Salad: A crisp garden salad with cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette is a refreshing option to balance out the rich chicken.
Conclusion
Grilled bone-in chicken breasts with a lemon-garlic marinade are a perfect meal for any summer gathering or family dinner. The marinade’s tangy citrus, bold garlic, and herbaceous notes make this chicken dish irresistible, while the bone-in cut ensures that the meat stays moist and flavorful. With easy preparation and minimal ingredients, this recipe is a great way to elevate your grilling game.
Try this recipe for your next barbecue or weeknight dinner and enjoy the wonderful flavors that come from simple, fresh ingredients!