Zesty Grilled Chicken Lo-Fat!

Prep: 240 min Serves: 4 Cuisine: American

Zesty grilled chicken breasts are marinated in a tangy soy-lemon sauce with herbs, perfect for light, flavorful summer meals or outdoor gatherings.

Be the first to rate this recipe

Ingredients

  • 8 chicken breasts, halved, boneless and skinless
  • 2 Tbsp olive oil
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 1/4 cup lite soy sauce
  • 2 Tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 Tbsp brown sugar
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 whole cloves
  • dash of pepper
  • 1/2 tsp dried thyme

Instructions

  1. Place chicken breasts in a shallow glass dish or Ziploc bag.
  2. Prepare marinade with olive oil, water, lite soy sauce, lemon juice, brown sugar, minced garlic, cloves, pepper, dried thyme, and dried basil.
  3. Pour marinade over chicken and refrigerate for a minimum of 4 hours, up to 24 hours.
  4. Grill quickly over hot coals, basting frequently.
  5. Serve hot.

Tips & Substitutions

For extra flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like rosemary or parsley to the marinade. If you prefer a spicier kick, a dash of red pepper flakes works well. If you're out of lite soy sauce, regular soy sauce can be used, but reduce the salt in the rest of your dish. Always ensure your grill is preheated for optimal searing.

Serving Suggestions

This zesty grilled chicken pairs beautifully with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables, making it a great choice for a light meal. Serve alongside Maui Potatoes for a delicious combination. You can also slice it and use it in wraps or sandwiches for a quick lunch option.

Storage & Reheating

Leftover grilled chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it can dry out the chicken.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Zesty Grilled Chicken Lo-Fat! contains roughly 483 calories, with 47g protein, 31g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (141% of the Daily Value), protein (95% of the Daily Value), and iron (85% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1180mg per serving (51% of the Daily Value).

483 kcal 24% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 47.5g 95% DV
Total Fat 21.2g 27% DV
Carbs 31.1g 11% DV
Fiber 12.2g 43% DV
Sugar 8g 16% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1180.4mg 51% DV
Potassium 1053.7mg 22% DV
Cholesterol 128mg 43% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 232.2mcg 26% DV
Vitamin C 126.6mg 100% DV
Vitamin D 0.8mcg 4% DV
Calcium 363.5mg 28% DV
Iron 15.3mg 85% DV
Diet fit High-protein High-fiber
Contains Soy

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use bone-in chicken, but cooking times will vary. Bone-in pieces typically require longer grilling time. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safe consumption.

How can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prepare the marinade and marinate the chicken breasts a day in advance. Just grill them right before serving for the best flavor and texture.

Is it possible to bake the chicken instead of grilling?

Absolutely! You can bake the marinated chicken at 375°F for about 25-30 minutes or until cooked through. This method will keep the chicken juicy, though it won't have the same smoky flavor as grilling.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

American recipes → Chicken recipes → All recipes →