Rosemary Lemon Grilled Chicken

Name: Rosemary Lemon Grilled Chicken
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1/4 cup olive oil; Juice of 2 lemons; 2 teaspoons fresh rosemary, chopped; 3 garlic cloves, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; Lemon slices and rosemary sprigs for garnish

Highlighted under: Cozy Cravings Kitchen

I love making Rosemary Lemon Grilled Chicken because it's the perfect balance of tangy and herbal flavors. Every time I cook this dish, the aroma of fresh rosemary and zesty lemon fills my kitchen and immediately brings a smile to my face. It’s quick to prepare, and after a simple marination, I can throw it on the grill for a delightful meal. This recipe is not only flavorful but also healthy, making it a go-to for weeknight dinners or weekend barbecues with friends.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2026-02-07T21:18:28.255Z

When I first experimented with this Rosemary Lemon Grilled Chicken recipe, I was amazed at how much flavor a few ingredients could deliver. The key is in the marinade, which consists of fresh lemon juice, rosemary, garlic, and olive oil. After marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes—or even overnight—the flavors meld beautifully, making every bite extra special. I always make sure to use fresh herbs because they bring out the best in this dish.

Grilling the chicken adds a smoky, charred taste that complements the tangy marinade perfectly. I like to serve it with a simple salad or some grilled vegetables on the side. It not only looks vibrant on the plate but also adds a fresh crunch that contrasts nicely with the tender chicken. Trust me, you’ll be wanting to make this again and again!

Why You'll Love This Rosemary Lemon Grilled Chicken
Zesty lemon brightens the dish with a refreshing taste
Tender, juicy chicken infused with aromatic rosemary
Perfect for any occasion, from casual dinners to outdoor barbecues

Marinade Magic

The marinade for Rosemary Lemon Grilled Chicken is not only key to infusing flavor but also crucial for maintaining the chicken's moisture and tenderness while grilling. The combination of acid from the lemon juice and the oils from olive oil creates an emulsion that wraps around each chicken breast, ensuring that every bite is both juicy and flavorful. Marinade the chicken for a minimum of 30 minutes; however, for deeper flavor penetration, allow it to sit for up to 12 hours in the refrigerator.

When mixing your marinade, ensure you whisk it until it’s well combined—this helps the garlic and rosemary distribute evenly throughout the mixture. Additionally, if you're looking for a stronger herb flavor, consider adding extra rosemary or even experimenting with other herbs like thyme or oregano. They add a unique twist while pairing beautifully with lemon, enhancing the final dish.

Grilling Techniques

Achieving perfect grill marks while keeping the chicken juicy is an art. After preheating your grill to medium-high heat, oiling the grates is essential. This prevents sticking and allows for those coveted grill lines. When placing the chicken on the grill, avoid moving it too much; let it sear for about 6-7 minutes on each side. You’ll know it's ready to flip when the chicken releases easily from the grill and has beautiful char marks.

Using a meat thermometer, check that the internal temperature has reached 165°F (75°C). This will guarantee that the chicken is fully cooked without overdoing it, which can cause the meat to become dry. If you're grilling larger chicken breasts or cooking more than usual, consider adjusting the grilling time slightly, or move pieces to a cooler part of the grill as needed.

Ingredients

For the Marinade

1/4 cup olive oil
Juice of 2 lemons
2 teaspoons fresh rosemary, chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Chicken

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Lemon slices and rosemary sprigs for garnish

Make sure to use fresh rosemary for the best flavor!

Instructions

Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, chopped rosemary, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken breasts in a shallow dish or a resealable plastic bag and pour the marinade over them. Seal and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight for best results.

Preheat the Grill

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.

Grill the Chicken

Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard any leftover marinade. Grill the chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

Serve

Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes, then slice and serve with lemon slices and fresh rosemary sprigs on top.

Enjoy your deliciously grilled chicken!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken overnight. If you have leftover marinade, it can also be brushed onto the chicken while grilling for extra zest.

Serving Suggestions

After resting for a few minutes post-grilling, slicing the chicken against the grain will provide tender, juicy pieces that are perfect for serving. You can present it atop a fresh arugula salad drizzled with a balsamic vinaigrette or alongside grilled vegetables for a complete meal. The zesty lemon flavor also pairs beautifully with some quinoa or a light pasta dish for a more filling option.

For a festive touch, consider garnishing the dish with extra lemon slices and rosemary sprigs, which not only enhances the presentation but also adds an inviting fragrance when served. A sprinkle of lemon zest over the top before serving can further brighten the dish and gives a hint of zest in every bite.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This Rosemary Lemon Grilled Chicken is ideal for meal prep. You can marinate the chicken the night before or batch-cook several servings at once, which makes it convenient for busy weekdays. Once grilled, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave to prevent drying out, and it will still retain its delicious flavor.

If you're looking to freeze some portions, it's best to freeze the chicken raw in the marinade. Just ensure to seal it properly in a freezer-safe bag, which can keep it fresh for up to three months. When ready to use, defrost in the refrigerator overnight before grilling. This helps to maintain the chicken's texture and the integrity of the flavors.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dried rosemary instead of fresh?

Fresh rosemary is recommended for the best flavor, but you can use dried rosemary in a pinch. Use about one-third of the amount.

→ What sides pair well with this dish?

This chicken goes great with a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread.

→ Can I grill this chicken indoors?

Yes, you can use a grill pan or an indoor electric grill if outdoor grilling is not an option.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.