A Summer Favorite That Makes You Look Like a Grill Master (Even if You're Not)

There’s something magical about the smell of dinner sizzling on the grill, especially when the sun’s still out and the kids are chasing each other barefoot in the yard.

This Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Thighs recipe has been on repeat at our house every summer since I first tested it during a chaotic week when I really didn’t feel like cooking. But I needed something easy, healthy, and satisfying — and let me tell you, this one checked every box.

The marinade takes less than 10 minutes to throw together, and you probably already have everything you need. The chicken turns out juicy and tender with golden crispy edges and a bright, citrusy-herb flavor that tastes like pure sunshine. Serve it with corn on the cob, a simple green salad, or grilled veggies, and dinner’s done.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs

• 1/4 cup olive oil

• Juice and zest of 2 lemons

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 tbsp fresh chopped parsley

• 1 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary (or 1 tsp dried)

• 1 tbsp chopped fresh thyme (or 1 tsp dried)

• 1 tsp Dijon mustard

• 1 tsp salt

• 1/2 tsp black pepper

Instructions

1. Make the marinade: In a large bowl or zip-top bag, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice and zest, garlic, herbs, mustard, salt, and pepper.

2. Marinate the chicken: Add chicken thighs and toss to coat. Seal and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 8 hours for extra flavor).

3. Preheat the grill: Set your grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.

4. Grill the chicken: Remove thighs from marinade and shake off excess. Grill for 5–7 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F and juices run clear.

5. Let it rest: Transfer to a plate and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Sarah’s Tips

• Boneless thighs are perfect for fast, even cooking and stay juicy — even if you accidentally overdo it a bit.

• No fresh herbs? You can use dried, just reduce the quantity by about a third.

• Want to meal prep? Double the marinade, and freeze half with raw chicken for a ready-to-go grill dinner later.

Flavorful Conclusion

This is one of those dinners that feels fancy but comes together with pantry staples and a few lemons. It’s become our go-to for summer evenings, especially when we have guests — because it looks impressive, but it’s seriously foolproof.

Give it a try this week. You’ll love how fresh and simple it is — and your family will ask for it again and again.

Nutrition (per serving, serves 4):
Calories: 330
Protein: 28g
Carbs: 3g
Fat: 22g
Fiber: 0g
Sugar: 1g