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Keto Dinner

Lemon Grilled Chicken

This lemon grilled chicken has become my go-to keto dinner when I want something bright and satisfying without fussing over carbs. The tangy citrus marinade tenderizes the meat beautifully while the grill adds that irresistible smoky char. I often prep it the night before, so all that’s left is a quick 45-minute cook time for a juicy, flavorful meal.

15 min Prep time 45 min Cook time 60 min Total time 4 Servings 350 Calories
Lemon Grilled Chicken

Ingredients

  • /2 cup lemon juice
  • /4 cup vegetable oil
  • tablespoons chopped onion
  • /2 teaspoon salt
  • /2 teaspoon pepper
  • /2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • garlic clove, minced
  • broiler/fryer chicken (3 to 4 pounds), cut up

Instructions

  1. Step 1

    Start by whisking together the lemon juice, oil, chopped onion, salt, pepper, thyme, and minced garlic in a bowl. I pour the mixture into a large resealable bag, reserving about 1/4 cup for basting later. Add the chicken pieces, seal, and massage the bag to coat evenly. Refrigerate overnight or at least 8 hours — this step makes all the difference in tenderness. When ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the used liquid

  2. Step 2

    never reuse it raw. Place the pieces on the grill grates, cover, and cook for 20 minutes. Baste generously with the reserved marinade, then continue grilling for another 20-30 minutes, turning and basting occasionally, until the internal temperature hits 165°F and juices run clear. I love how the lemony glaze caramelizes slightly, giving each bite a subtle tangy sweetness. Let the chicken rest a few minutes before serving.

Chef's Tip

I’ve found that adding a teaspoon of lemon zest to the marinade brightens the flavor even more, and if you can, let the chicken come to room temperature before grilling—it cooks more evenly. For extra smoky depth, toss a few wood chips onto the coals.

Storage Tips

Keep any leftover lemon grilled chicken in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For best results, reheat it in a low oven or slice it cold onto a crisp salad—the flavors hold up beautifully either way.

Variation Tips

This lemon grilled chicken pairs wonderfully with a side of garlic-roasted broccoli or a simple Greek salad for a complete keto dinner. I sometimes swap the vegetable oil with avocado oil for a healthier fat profile. The marinade also transforms pork tenderloin or lamb chops—just keep an eye on the grill time.

Frequently Asked Questions