Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

Infused with fresh lemon, cracked black pepper, and garlic, this Lemon Pepper Chicken Marinade brings bold, refreshing flavors to your dishes. It’s an ideal addition for meal prep, perfect for grilling, baking, or pan-searing, and designed to make weeknight dinners easier. With its vibrant citrus and aromatic pepper, this marinade works wonderfully with chicken thighs or breasts. Freezer-friendly, it’s a simple way to have flavorful, ready-to-cook meals on hand whenever you need them. This marinade has quickly become a favorite in my meal-prep rotation, and I love using it to create flavorful dinners like rice bowls, wraps, or hearty salads.

Ingredients:

• 500g chicken (thighs or breasts)
• Zest and juice of 3 large lemons
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 5 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp freshly ground black pepper
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt, to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Marinade:
   In a large mixing bowl, blend together the lemon zest, juice, olive oil, garlic, black pepper, oregano, and salt until well mixed.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
   Add the chicken to the bowl, ensuring each piece is fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for a deeper infusion of flavor.
3. Cook the Chicken:
   • Grilling: Heat the grill to medium-high and cook for 6-8 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 75°C (165°F).
   • Baking: Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Place chicken on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, until cooked through.
   • Pan-Searing: In a skillet over medium heat with a touch of oil, sear the chicken for about 7-8 minutes per side, until golden and fully cooked.
4. Serve:
   Garnish with fresh lemon slices or parsley if desired. This marinade pairs well with roasted potatoes, grilled vegetables, or a crisp green salad.

Recipe Ideas & Serving Suggestions:

This lemony, peppery marinade brings versatility to multiple dishes:

• Rice Bowls: Serve sliced over herbed rice with sautéed greens and fresh herbs.
• Wraps & Sandwiches: Add to wraps or sandwiches with fresh veggies and a dollop of yogurt or aioli.
• Light Salads: Toss into a crisp salad with greens, cucumbers, and a sprinkle of feta cheese.

Freezing and Thawing Tips for Safe Meal Prep:

Freezing marinated chicken keeps flavor intact and makes meal prep simple. Here are some helpful tips:

• Freezing: Transfer the marinated chicken to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Thawing: For food safety, transfer frozen chicken to the fridge the night before cooking to let it thaw gradually. Avoid thawing at room temperature to prevent bacterial growth.
• Direct Cooking from Frozen: You can bake the chicken from frozen at 200°C (400°F) by adding 10-15 minutes to the cook time, ensuring an internal temperature of 75°C (165°F).

More Freezer-Friendly Marinades for Easy Meal Prep

For those looking to streamline their meal prep, try my other freezer-friendly marinades! Stocking your freezer with different marinade options helps you stay prepared, eliminating the need to think about what to cook. Each marinade brings unique flavors to your chicken dishes, perfect for those who love variety and efficiency in their weekly meal plans.

• Coriander Lemon Chicken marinade
• Harissa Chicken Marinade
• Sriracha Parsley Chicken
• …and more

This lemon pepper chicken marinade is a fresh, zesty option that’s easy to make yet packed with flavor, and it’s ideal for any time of year!

4o