In the world of cuisine, some recipes cross the ages and borders without ever losing their success. The grilled chicken marinated in lemon is one of these timeless dishes that always bring pleasure to both young and old. This succulent preparation showcases simple but tasty ingredients such as chicken, lemon, thyme, olive oil, and salt.
Why marinate the chicken before grilling it?
The first step of this recipe is to prepare a marinade made of lemon, olive oil, thyme, and salt. This step is essential for several reasons:
The benefits of marinating on the tenderness of chicken
Firstly, it helps to tenderize the chicken’s flesh, ensuring a faster and more even cooking. Indeed, the acids in the lemon juice have the property of breaking down the muscle fibers of the meat, making it softer and more tender.
The contribution of intense flavors and aromas
Next, the marinade is used to infuse the chicken with intense flavors and aromas, thanks to the ingredients that make it up. The lemon adds a tangy and refreshing note, while the thyme gives off a woody scent characteristic of Mediterranean cuisine.
Better chicken preservation
Finally, marinating also helps to preserve the chicken, protecting it from oxidation and the proliferation of bacteria. It is therefore recommended to marinate the chicken for at least two hours in the refrigerator before cooking it.
Ingredients for this recipe :
- Chicken (1)
- Yellow lemons (2)
- Fresh thyme (4 sprigs)
- Olive oil (4 tablespoons)
- Salt and pepper
The art of grilling chicken to perfection
After marinating the chicken, it is time to cook it. Grilling the chicken provides a crispy texture on the outside, while keeping it tender on the inside. Here are some tips for successfully accomplishing this step:
Prepare the barbecue or plancha well
Whether you’re using a traditional barbecue or an electric griddle, it’s essential to properly prepare the cooking appliance. For the barbecue, make sure the embers are very hot but without visible flames. If you’re using a griddle, heat it up to medium to high heat.
Do not forget to oil the grill or plate
To prevent the chicken from sticking to the grill or baking sheet, consider coating it with a little neutral oil using a kitchen brush. You can also lightly brush the chicken with olive oil, to give it a nice golden color.
Monitor and regularly turn the chicken
During cooking, it is important to monitor the chicken and turn it regularly to prevent it from burning. The cooking time varies depending on the size of the pieces, but generally count between 20 and 30 minutes for a whole chicken.
Tips to enhance your Lemon-marinated Grilled Chicken
Even if this recipe is enough on its own, a few simple tips will help you get the most out of it:
Add other herbs and spices to the marinade
Do not hesitate to personalize the marinade by adding other herbs such as rosemary or basil, as well as mild spices like paprika or cumin. You can also add a crushed garlic clove to bring an additional touch of spice.
Opt for untreated organic lemons
To maximize the flavors of the marinade, prefer organic, untreated lemons that will retain all their aroma during cooking. In addition, their zest can be integrated into the preparation to further enhance the lemon taste.
Offer a variety of colorful accompaniments
To enhance this delicious grilled and marinated chicken, nothing like some tasty side dishes: a mixed salad (tabbouleh, Greek salad…), potatoes roasted in olive oil, a pan-fried mix of vegetables or even grilled vegetable skewers will add a touch of color and freshness to your meal.
In summary, Lemon-Marinated Grilled Chicken is a must-have recipe for lovers of Mediterranean and sunny flavors. Easy to make, it will delight your guests at a picnic, a barbecue with friends, or simply a family lunch. So don’t hesitate and start marinating your chicken now for a guaranteed delight at tasting!