lemon pepper chicken marinade
A tangy, zesty marinade perfect for juicy, flavorful chicken with a burst of lemon and pepper.
Ingredients
- 1 lb 450g boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon zest about one large lemon
- 3 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tsp black pepper freshly ground
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp honey or maple syrup optional, for a touch of sweetness
- 1 tsp dried thyme or fresh if available
Instructions
- Prepare: Place chicken breasts in a resealable bag or shallow dish.
- Combine: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, garlic, black pepper, salt, honey, and thyme.
- Marinate: Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes (for best results, 2-4 hours).
- Preheat: Heat a grill or stovetop skillet over medium-high heat.
- Cook: Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing excess marinade to drip off. Grill or pan-sear for 6-8 minutes per side or until cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F).
- Serve: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes, then slice and serve.
Notes
- Marinade Time: For maximum flavor, let the chicken marinate for at least 2 hours. Avoid marinating for more than 8 hours to prevent the acidity from making the chicken mushy.
- Serving Suggestions: Pairs well with grilled vegetables, a light salad, or over rice.
- Substitutions: Substitute chicken breasts with chicken thighs for juicier texture.