This recipe delivers juicy, flavorful grilled chicken thighs with a vibrant marinade that perfectly balances savory, sweet, and citrusy notes. The combination of soy sauce, lemon, brown sugar, and herbs creates a delicious glaze as the chicken grills, resulting in a mouthwatering dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend barbecues.
Why you will love this recipe
You’ll love this Grilled Soy Sauce Lemon Chicken because it’s incredibly easy to make, packed with flavor, and versatile enough to serve with a variety of sides. The marinade infuses the chicken with a wonderful depth of flavor, while the grilling process adds a smoky char that enhances the overall taste. The chicken stays moist and tender, making it a family-friendly meal that everyone will enjoy. The recipe requires minimal prep time and utilizes common ingredients, making it a convenient option for busy cooks. Plus, the bright, zesty flavors are a welcome change from ordinary grilled chicken recipes.
Ingredients:
- 6 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on): These provide the best flavor and juiciness when grilled. Bone-in and skin-on pieces retain moisture and add richness to the dish.
- 1/4 cup olive oil: This helps to emulsify the marinade, adds moisture to the chicken, and promotes even grilling.
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest: Adds a bright, aromatic citrus flavor that complements the soy sauce and herbs.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Provides acidity, which tenderizes the chicken and balances the sweetness of the brown sugar.
- 3 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce: Offers a savory, umami-rich flavor that forms the base of the marinade. Using low sodium soy sauce helps to control the saltiness of the dish.
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar: Adds sweetness and helps to create a caramelized glaze on the chicken as it grills.
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley leaves (chopped): Contributes a fresh, herbaceous note that enhances the overall flavor profile.
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme: Provides an earthy, aromatic flavor that complements the lemon and garlic.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavors of all the ingredients and seasons the chicken.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle spicy kick and enhances the savory flavors.
- 6 garlic cloves (minced): Infuses the marinade with a pungent, aromatic flavor that pairs well with the soy sauce and lemon.
- 1/8 teaspoon red pepper flakes: Offers a touch of heat that balances the other flavors and adds complexity to the dish.
Preparation:
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, low sodium soy sauce, brown sugar, chopped fresh parsley, fresh thyme, salt, black pepper, minced garlic cloves, and red pepper flakes. Whisk all ingredients together until well combined and the brown sugar is fully dissolved. This ensures that the flavors are evenly distributed throughout the marinade.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs in the bowl with the marinade. Use your hands or a spoon to ensure that each piece of chicken is thoroughly coated with the marinade. The marinade should cover all surfaces of the chicken to maximize flavor absorption.
Step 3: Marinating Time: Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or transfer the chicken and marinade to a resealable plastic bag. Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes at room temperature or, for a more intense flavor, marinate in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Longer marinating times allow the flavors to penetrate deeper into the chicken. If marinating in the refrigerator, bring the chicken to room temperature for about 30 minutes before grilling for even cooking.
Step 4: Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium heat (about 350-400°F or 175-200°C). Ensure the grill grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent the chicken from sticking. You can use a grill brush to clean the grates and a paper towel soaked in oil to lightly coat them.
Step 5: Grill the Chicken: Place the marinated chicken thighs on the preheated grill, skin-side down. Grill for approximately 5-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Turn the chicken every 5 minutes to ensure even cooking and prevent burning. As the chicken grills, the marinade will caramelize, creating a delicious glaze. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the thickest part of the thigh, avoiding the bone.
COOKING Rating:
Easy
Serving Suggestions:
Serve the Grilled Soy Sauce Lemon Chicken with a variety of sides such as:
- Steamed rice: A simple and classic pairing that absorbs the flavorful juices from the chicken.
- Roasted vegetables: Broccoli, asparagus, bell peppers, or zucchini make for a healthy and colorful side dish.
- Quinoa salad: A nutritious and flavorful option that adds texture and variety to the meal.
- Mashed potatoes: A comforting and satisfying side that complements the savory flavors of the chicken.
- Green salad: A refreshing side to balance the richness of the chicken.
- Grilled corn on the cob: A perfect addition to a summer barbecue.
Tips:
- For best results, marinate the chicken for at least a few hours or overnight. This allows the flavors to fully penetrate the meat, resulting in a more flavorful and tender dish.
- If you don’t have fresh parsley or thyme, you can substitute with dried herbs. Use about 1 teaspoon of each dried herb for every tablespoon of fresh herbs.
- To prevent the chicken from sticking to the grill, make sure the grill grates are clean and lightly oiled.
- If the chicken starts to brown too quickly on the grill, move it to a cooler part of the grill or reduce the heat.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful dish.
- You can also bake this chicken in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 30-35 minutes, or until cooked through.
Prep Time:
15 minutes
Cook Time:
20-25 minutes
Total Time:
35-40 minutes (plus marinating time)
Nutritional Information:
(Approximate values per serving, based on 1 chicken thigh)
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 30g
- Sodium: 400mg
Conclusion
Grilled Soy Sauce Lemon Chicken is a delightful and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of savory, sweet, and citrusy flavors makes it a crowd-pleaser, while the simple preparation and versatile serving options make it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings. Whether you’re a seasoned griller or a beginner cook, this recipe is sure to impress with its delicious taste and effortless preparation.
Questions and Answers About This Recipe:
Q1: Can I use chicken breasts instead of chicken thighs?
A: Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but keep in mind that they tend to dry out more easily than chicken thighs. If using chicken breasts, consider pounding them to an even thickness to ensure they cook evenly. Also, be careful not to overcook them; aim for an internal temperature of 160-165°F (71-74°C) to keep them juicy. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, as chicken breasts will likely cook faster than thighs.
Q2: How long should I marinate the chicken?
A: For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes at room temperature or up to 24 hours in the refrigerator. The longer the chicken marinates, the more the flavors will penetrate the meat. If marinating for an extended period in the refrigerator, bring the chicken to room temperature for about 30 minutes before grilling to ensure even cooking.
Q3: Can I make this recipe in the oven instead of on the grill?
A: Absolutely! If you don’t have a grill or prefer to cook indoors, you can bake the chicken in the oven. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), place the marinated chicken in a baking dish, and bake for approximately 30-35 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). For a similar caramelized effect, you can broil the chicken for the last few minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
Q4: Can I add other vegetables to the grill along with the chicken?
A: Yes, grilling vegetables alongside the chicken is a great way to create a complete meal. Vegetables like bell peppers, onions, zucchini, and asparagus pair well with the flavors of the marinade. Simply toss the vegetables with a little olive oil, salt, and pepper, and grill them alongside the chicken for the last 10-15 minutes, or until they are tender and slightly charred.
Q5: How can I store leftover Grilled Soy Sauce Lemon Chicken?
A: To store leftover Grilled Soy Sauce Lemon Chicken, allow the chicken to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat the chicken in the oven, microwave, or on the stovetop until heated through. You can also shred the leftover chicken and use it in salads, sandwiches, or wraps for a quick and easy meal.
