This Easy and Healthy Lemon Chicken is everything you want in a weeknight dinner. It’s flavorful, juicy, weight loss-friendly, and ready with minimal prep. With bright lemon, savory herbs, and tender chicken thighs, it’s a protein-packed favorite you’ll turn to again and again.
It’s great for meal prep, low in carbs, and pairs perfectly with any veggie or grain.
Why You Should Make This Zesty Lemon Chicken
- Under 400 calories per serving
- Quick and easy for busy weeknights
- Packed with protein and low in carbs
- Meal-prep friendly
- Anti-inflammatory ingredients
- Delicious grilled or baked
What Is Lemon Chicken?
This recipe uses boneless skinless chicken thighs marinated in a mixture of lemon juice, olive oil, and herbs. You can grill it for a smoky flavor or bake it for a quick, no-fuss option.
A helpful tip is to set out the chicken for a few minutes before you make it, because the olive oil in the marinade hardens in the refrigerator. (This is normal.) I set mine on top of the stove as it was preheating, and this was just right. Then you can drain off the excess marinade.
What Ingredients Do I Need?
- Boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- Extra virgin olive oil
- Lemon juice
- Dried herbs and seasonings, such as oregano, dill, garlic powder, salt & pepper
How Do I Store Lemon Chicken?
Before cooking, keep the chicken in the marinade for 4-24 hours. We do not recommend keeping the chicken in the marinade for longer than twenty-four hours, as the acid in the lemon juice can break down the protein in the chicken, making it rubbery. (It’s not harmful to eat, but the texture isn’t as pleasant.)
Once cooked, store the chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. You may reheat it in the microwave or slice and eat it cold over a salad.
Can I Freeze Lemon Chicken?
Absolutely.
- Before cooking: Freeze chicken in marinade for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator and cook as directed.
- After cooking: Freeze cooked chicken in portion sizes for quick meals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Easy and Healthy Lemon Chicken
Ingredients
- 6 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- ⅓ cup lemon juice
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried dill
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ¾ tsp salt
- ¾ tsp pepper
- 1 pound chicken thighs boneless, skinless, 4 thighs, 4 ounces each
Instructions
- Make marinade: Put the lemon juice and seasonings in a bowl. Whisk to combine. While you are whisking, slowly drizzle in the extra virgin olive oil.
- Marinate: Add chicken thighs to a glass bowl or zipper plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken and mix until it is evenly coated. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, up to 6 hours.
- To cook: Drain off any excess marinade and throw away. Bake at 400 ℉ for 20 minutes or until an internal temperature reaches 165°, or grill for 5-7 minutes per side.
WW Information
Notes
Nutrition
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