Updated: June 12, 2026
Grilled Lemon Chicken is one of my family’s favorite meal prep recipes because it’s packed with protein, easy to make, and full of bright citrus flavor. Over the years, I’ve experimented with adding fresh lemon juice to the marinade, but I’ve found that lemon zest paired with lemon pepper seasoning creates the biggest lemon flavor without overpowering the chicken. Whether you’re planning dinner tonight or looking for a repeat grilling recipe for the week, this simple grilled chicken recipe delivers juicy, flavorful results every time.
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- This is a high in protein dish and perfect for meal prep.
- This recipe uses simple ingredients that are easy to find at any grocery store.
- Bright lemon flavor from fresh lemon zest and lemon pepper seasoning.
- I recommend using juicy chicken thighs that stay tender and flavorful on the grill.
- Perfect for cookouts, weeknight dinners, or making a big batch for the next day.
Ingredients
Below are the ingredients you’ll need to make this recipe, along with a quick explanation of what each one adds. Be sure to scroll down to the recipe card for exact measurements and complete instructions:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs – Chicken thighs are naturally juicy and forgiving on the grill, making them my favorite cut for this recipe.
- Goya All-Purpose Adobo Seasoning – Adds salt, garlic, and savory flavor that serves as the foundation of the seasoning blend.
- Lemon Pepper Seasoning – Provides bold citrus flavor and black pepper for the classic grilled lemon pepper chicken taste.
- Onion Powder – Adds a subtle savory sweetness that balances the bright lemon notes.
- Garlic Powder – Brings rich garlic flavor without the risk of fresh garlic burning on the grill.
- Dry Sage – Adds an earthy herbal note that complements the lemon beautifully.
- Red Pepper – Provides a mild kick of heat and helps balance the citrus flavors.
- Fresh Lemon Zest – The secret ingredient that gives this grilled lemon chicken recipe its vibrant flavor and signature lemon flavor pop.
- Fresh Italian Flat Leaf Parsley (Optional) – Adds fresh color and a bright finish before serving.
How to Grill Lemon Chicken – With Video
This recipe includes 4 step-by-step photos to help guide you through the process. Full ingredient measurements and detailed instructions can be found in the recipe card below:
STEP 1: Prepare the Chicken – If desired, clean the raw chicken using your preferred method. Pat dry thoroughly before seasoning.
STEP 2: Season and Marinate – Season both sides of the chicken thighs with the Adobo seasoning, lemon pepper seasoning, onion powder, garlic powder, dry sage, and red pepper. Massage the seasonings into the chicken and place it inside a resealable plastic bag. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
STEP 3: Grill the Chicken – Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, approximately 400°F (204°C). Place chicken directly over the heat source and cook until the thickest part reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
STEP 4: Garnish and Serve – Remove the chicken from the grill and immediately top with fresh lemon zest. For even more citrus flavor, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Substitutions & Variations
- Substitute boneless chicken breasts for a leaner option like chicken breasts. Be careful not to overcook them.
- Add fresh rosemary or other fresh herbs to the seasoning blend.
- Include fresh garlic for additional flavor.
- Add a tablespoon of vegetable oil or olive oil to create a more traditional lemon marinade.
- Use chicken tenderloins for faster cooking.
- Add a squeeze of lemon juice before serving for extra brightness.
- Turn this recipe into lemon garlic grilled chicken by adding 3 cloves of minced garlic. So yummy!
Tips for Making Grilled Lemon Chicken
- Don’t Skip the Marinating Time – Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 2 hours helps the seasonings penetrate the meat and creates more flavorful chicken. Overnight is best if you have time!
- Use Fresh Lemon Zest – While fresh lemon juice adds brightness, lemon zest contains concentrated citrus oils that provide the most intense lemon flavor.
- Preheat the Grill – A hot grill creates beautiful grill marks and helps lock moisture into the chicken.
- Use a Meat Thermometer – An instant-read thermometer is the best way to ensure perfectly cooked chicken every time.
- Let the Chicken Rest – Allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes after grilling so the juices can redistribute throughout the meat.
- Chef’s Tip – For maximum lemon flavor, add fresh lemon zest immediately after the chicken comes off the grill. The residual heat releases the natural oils in the zest and creates an incredible aroma!
Grilling Times for Chicken
Below you will find a quick reference guide for grilling times for chicken. Actual cooking time will vary based on the size and thickness of your chicken pieces:
| Chicken Cut | Internal Temperature | Approximate Cooking Time |
|---|---|---|
| Boneless Chicken Thighs | 165°F (74°C) | 5-7 minutes per side |
| Boneless Chicken Breasts | 165°F (74°C) | 6-8 minutes per side |
| Chicken Tenderloins | 165°F (74°C) | 3-4 minutes per side |
Always verify doneness using a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the chicken.
Storage & Make Ahead Tips
- For leftovers: Store leftover grilled lemon chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- For meal prep: Divide the chicken into individual containers alongside grilled vegetables, rice, or a low calorie cucumber salad.
- To make ahead: You can season the chicken and refrigerate it overnight before grilling the next day.
- If you want to freeze: To freeze, place cooled chicken in a freezer-safe container and store for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- To reheat: You can warm this dish in the microwave, oven, or air fryer until heated through to 165°F (74°C). You can also season the chicken and marinate it overnight before grilling the next day.
What to Serve with Grilled Lemon Chicken
This grilled chicken pairs well with:
FAQ
How long should I marinate the chicken?
For best results, marinate for at least 2 hours. Overnight marinating will provide even more flavor.
Can I make this recipe indoors?
Yes. A grill pan works well if outdoor grilling isn't an option.
Can I freeze grilled lemon chicken?
Absolutely. Store in a freezer-safe airtight container for up to 3 months.
Why use lemon zest instead of only lemon juice?
Lemon zest contains natural citrus oils that provide a stronger and more concentrated lemon flavor than juice alone.
Recipe Card
Grilled Lemon Chicken
Ingredients
- 8 Skinless Chicken Thighs, (fat removed)
- 1 tbsp Goya All Purpose Adobo seasoning
- 1 tbsp Lemon Pepper Seasoning
- 1/2 tbsp Onion powder
- 1/2 tbsp Garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp Dry Sage
- 1/2 tsp Red pepper
- 1 Lemon, (zested & juiced)
- 2 tbsp Fresh Italian flat leaf parsley, (chopped)
Instructions
- If desired, clean the raw chicken using your preferred method. Pat dry thoroughly before seasoning.
- Season both sides of the chicken thighs with the Adobo seasoning, lemon pepper seasoning, onion powder, garlic powder, dry sage, and red pepper. Massage the seasonings into the chicken and place it inside a resealable plastic bag. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, approximately 400°F (204°C). Place chicken directly over the heat source and cook until the thickest part reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Remove the chicken from the grill and immediately top with fresh lemon zest. For even more citrus flavor, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
- Marinate for Best Flavor: While 2 hours is sufficient, marinating overnight will give the chicken even more flavor.
- Use Fresh Lemon Zest: Fresh lemon zest provides a stronger, brighter lemon flavor than lemon juice alone.
- Check Temperature: Cook chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part.
- Let It Rest: Allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes after grilling to help retain its juices.
- For Meal Prep: Store cooked chicken in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and use in salads, wraps, rice bowls, or alongside your favorite side dishes.
- Indoor Cooking Option: No grill? Cook the chicken on a grill pan over medium-high heat until fully cooked.
- Optional Garnish: Finish with extra lemon zest, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, and chopped parsley for the brightest flavor.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
Craving More?
If you make this Grilled Lemon Chicken, I’d love to see it! Tag me on Instagram at @elicitfolio so I can see your creations. You can also follow along on Pinterest for more Southern recipes, hosting inspiration, and easy weeknight dinners. If you try this recipe, leave a comment below and let me know what grilling recipe you’d like to see me make next!
I like this recipe for chicken. This is a nutritious meal that I can include in my diet. I am aiming for a well-balanced diet because I want to live long for my family. Sometimes I feel guilty for the food that I ate out out cravings. I know that I should eat healthy food to prevent unwanted sickness or illness. Most of the diseases now are because of our eating habits. If we correct or eating habits, we can avoid getting sick in the future.
This sounds so delicious and looks quite easy to prepare, that I am very keen to try it out when we next fire up our BBQ. The operation of the BBQ is the domain of my partner (he regards the BBQ as a ‘man’s territory’!) so I will bookmark this so he can read up on how best to do this, while I make sure we have the ingredients on hand. Looking forward to tasting the outcome.
My husband loves having Chicken. I’m pretty sure he’ll love it your recipe too. I’ll try it for sure.
That is one delicious meal! I love cooking with lemon and garlic. We have grill in the back yard, and we’ll be making this soon!
I always love chicken. and this grilled chicken with garlic lemon sounds so delicious. when I go back to my province, I love to try this with my family. right now, I am living alone in the big city with my cats. can’t go home because of the lockdown. how i wish i can go back and cook and eat delicious foods again. 🙂
Sounds exactly like my kind of chicken. I should start having this for the New Year celebrations.
The dish looks so yummy and delicious. I am fond of chicken though now eating less as I am not going out. I like the lemon garlic touch to it.
your chicken looks fabulous! as does the asparagus. i love grilling asparagus (only way to eat it really).