Grilled Soy Sauce Lemon Chicken

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Grilled Soy Sauce Lemon Chicken – Sweet, Savory & Perfectly Juicy

If you’re craving a quick and flavorful grilled chicken dinner, this Grilled Soy Sauce Lemon Chicken is just the thing. Marinated in a tangy-sweet blend of lemon juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, and herbs, these juicy chicken thighs are bursting with flavor and perfect for grilling season—or anytime you want a simple yet satisfying meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

  • Bursting with bold, balanced flavors
  • Just 6 pantry-friendly ingredients
  • Grill-ready in under 30 minutes (plus marinating time)
  • Easily adaptable for indoor cooking or the oven

Ingredients:

For the Marinade:

  • 1/3 cup olive oil (extra virgin preferred)
  • 1/3 cup low-sodium soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar (light or dark)
  • Juice and zest of 1 lemon
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh)
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little kick)

For the Chicken:

  • 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a small bowl or large resealable bag, whisk together the olive oil, soy sauce, brown sugar, lemon zest, lemon juice, thyme, and red pepper flakes.

2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add chicken thighs to the marinade and mix until fully coated. Seal and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, ideally overnight for maximum flavor.

3. Grill the Chicken:
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade and discard the excess liquid. Grill the chicken thighs for 6–7 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and juices run clear.

4. Rest and Serve:
Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with your favorite summer sides!

Tips for Success:

  • Zest the lemon before juicing it—it’s much easier that way!
  • Marinate up to 24 hours in advance for deeper flavor.
  • No grill? No problem. Cook it on a stovetop grill pan or bake at 400°F (200°C) for 25–30 minutes

Storage & Reheating:

Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

FAQ:

Can I use chicken breasts or drumsticks?
Absolutely! Just adjust grilling times as needed—breasts cook faster, while drumsticks may need a few extra minutes.

Can I bake instead of grill?
Yes. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 25–30 minutes or until cooked through.

Can I freeze the marinated chicken?
Yes! Freeze chicken in marinade in a zip-top bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before cooking.

 

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