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This Chilli Garlic Lemon Chicken Marinade is a bold, zesty, and spicy option that’s perfect for grilling, baking, air-frying, or pan-searing. Made with fresh ingredients like garlic, lemon, and chilies, this low-calorie, high-protein marinade is ideal for those following fitness and health goals. It’s also meal-prep friendly, making it a great option for busy weeknights!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✔ Low-Calorie & High-Protein – Uses minimal oil and relies on fresh basic ingredients
✔ Meal-Prep Friendly – Easily freeze for future quick meals.
✔ Customizable Spice Level – Adjust the chilies to your heat preference.
✔ Versatile – Works for chicken breast, thighs, tofu, or even seafood.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 300g chicken breast

For the Marinade

• 1 tsp olive oil
• ½-1 tsp ground black pepper
• 10g chopped fresh coriander leaves
• Juice & zest of 1 large yellow lemon
• 2-3 green chilies, finely chopped (or 1 spicy jalapeño)
• 5 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

• In a bowl, mix olive oil, black pepper, coriander leaves, lemon juice, lemon zest, chopped chilies, minced garlic, and salt until well combined.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

• Add the chicken breast to the marinade, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
• Cover and let it marinate for at least 1 hour (overnight for deeper flavor).

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Grilling: Preheat to medium-high heat and cook for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked.
Pan-Searing: Heat 1 tsp oil in a pan over medium heat. Cook for 5-6 minutes per side, covering for extra juiciness.
Baking: Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F) and bake for 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway.
Air-Frying: Set the air fryer to 180°C (350°F) and cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway.

Step 4: Rest & Serve

• Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing to keep it juicy.
• Serve with steamed rice, roasted veggies, or in a salad for a complete meal.

Make It Meal-Prep Friendly

This Chilli Garlic Lemon Chicken is perfect for meal prepping!

• Marinate & Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days before cooking.
• Freezing Instructions: Place marinated chicken in a freezer-safe bag, removing excess air. Freeze for up to 3 months.
• Thaw Before Cooking: Transfer to the fridge overnight before cooking for best results.

Want a Creamier, Richer Marinade?

If you’re not counting calories, you can adjust this recipe for a richer, creamier version:

• Increase the olive oil to 2-3 tbsp for extra juiciness.
• Mix in 1 tbsp mayonnaise or cream for a velvety finish, after cooking

More Flavor-Packed Marinades to Try!

Looking for more easy and delicious marinades? Try these:

• Peri Peri Chicken Marinade – Spicy, smoky, and perfect for grilling.
• Mint Coriander Chicken Marinade – Fresh and herby with a tangy kick.
• Malai Chicken Tikka Marinade – Creamy, mild, and packed with Indian flavors.

This Chilli Garlic Lemon Chicken marinade is the perfect way to keep your meals healthy, flavorful, and easy to prepare. Give it a try and let me know how you like it! 🍋🔥🧄