Grilled lemon soy sauce chicken is marinated in a zesty, savory blend that keeps the meat juicy and full of flavor. This recipe delivers tender, golden chicken with just the right hint of char.
Perfect for weeknight dinners or backyard barbecues, this dish pairs beautifully with fresh salads, grilled veggies, or fluffy rice.
Ingredients for Grilled Lemon Soy Sauce Chicken
Olive oil – Adds richness and helps the marinade coat the chicken evenly.
Lemon zest and juice – Provide fresh, bright citrus notes that balance the savory soy sauce.
Low sodium soy sauce – Infuses the chicken with a deep, salty umami flavor.
Brown sugar – Adds a subtle sweetness and helps caramelize the chicken on the grill.
Fresh parsley and thyme – Bring a burst of herbal freshness to the marinade.
Salt and black pepper – Essential for seasoning and enhancing all other flavors.
Garlic cloves – Add robust, aromatic depth that shines through after grilling.
Red pepper flakes – Give a slight kick of heat without overpowering the other flavors.
Chicken thighs – Bone-in, skin-on thighs stay juicy and develop a crisp, flavorful skin on the grill.
Grilled Lemon Soy Sauce Chicken: Quick Cooking Steps
Whisk together the olive oil, citrus, soy sauce, herbs, spices, and garlic to create a bold marinade.
Coat the chicken thoroughly, then let it absorb the flavors for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
Grill over medium heat, turning often for juicy, perfectly charred chicken ready in about 25 minutes.
Grilled Lemon Soy Sauce Chicken Tips & Variations
For extra flavor, grill a few lemon slices alongside the chicken for the last five minutes and serve them as a garnish.
Substitute chicken legs or breasts if preferred—just watch the cooking time, as breasts cook faster. Dried thyme works in a pinch if fresh isn’t available.
How to Store Grilled Lemon Soy Sauce Chicken Leftovers
Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Reheat gently on the grill or in a covered skillet over medium-low heat to maintain juiciness. This chicken can also be frozen for up to two months; thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bake this instead of grilling?
Yes. Bake at 400°F for about 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
A minimum of 30 minutes works, but marinating for up to 24 hours deepens the flavor.
Can I use boneless chicken?
Yes, but boneless pieces cook more quickly. Check for doneness at around 15–20 minutes.
What sides pair well with this recipe?
Serve with rice, grilled vegetables, or a crisp green salad for a balanced meal.
Grilled Lemon Soy Sauce Chicken
Ingredients
- 6 chicken thighs bone-in, skin on
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley leaves chopped
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1/8 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 6 garlic cloves minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Combine the olive oil, soy sauce, lemon zest, lemon juice, brown sugar, garlic, parsley, thyme, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes in a large mixing bowl until fully blended. Submerge the chicken thighs in the prepared marinade, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated.
- Cover the bowl and let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes at room temperature or refrigerate for up to 24 hours for deeper flavor.
- Preheat the grill to medium heat and place the marinated chicken on the grates. Grill the chicken, turning every five minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F, which should take approximately 20 to 25 minutes.
Notes
Chicken legs or breasts may be substituted, though breasts will require less cooking time. If preferred, replace fresh thyme with 1 1/2 teaspoons of dried thyme.
Cooking duration may vary based on grill heat, chicken size, and starting temperature.
For an aromatic garnish, grill lemon slices during the final five minutes and serve alongside the chicken.