Marinating the Chicken:
- Prepare the marinade: In a large bowl or zip-top bag, combine the lemon juice, lemon zest, olive oil, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, chopped thyme, salt, and black pepper.
- Marinate the chicken: Add the chicken breasts or thighs to the marinade, ensuring they are well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to 24 hours for deeper flavor.
Preparing the BBQ Sauce:
- Combine the sauce ingredients: In a medium bowl, mix together the BBQ sauce, honey, lemon juice, paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, and onion powder until well combined. Set aside.
Cooking the Chicken:
Grilling Method:
- Preheat the grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375°F to 400°F).
- Grill the chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade and place it on the grill. Cook for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Apply BBQ sauce: During the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, brush the chicken generously with the BBQ sauce, turning occasionally to prevent burning.
Oven Method:
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake the chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade and place it in a baking dish. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Broil with BBQ sauce: Remove the chicken from the oven and brush generously with the BBQ sauce. Place under the broiler for 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly and slightly caramelized.
Serving:
- Plate the chicken: Arrange the Lemon BBQ Chicken on a serving platter.
- Garnish: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and lemon slices if desired.
Tips for Success
- Marinating time: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 1 hour to absorb the flavors, but overnight marination will yield the best results.
- Grill marks: For perfect grill marks, avoid moving the chicken too frequently on the grill.
- Resting the chicken: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring tender and juicy meat.
Serving Suggestions
- Side dishes: Serve with grilled vegetables, a fresh salad, or mashed potatoes.
- Beverage pairing: Pair with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light beer to complement the lemony flavors.
Conclusion
Enjoy your Lemon BBQ Chicken—a dish that’s both flavorful and versatile. Perfect for grilling season or any time you crave a delicious, tangy BBQ dish. Visit our site for more exclusive recipes and culinary inspirations to elevate your cooking adventures.