This grilled lemonade chicken is a zesty delight! Marinated in tangy lemonade, it becomes juicy and packed with flavor. The yogurt dipping sauce adds a cool touch!
I love serving this chicken at summer cookouts. It pairs perfectly with a fresh salad. Plus, who could resist that refreshing twist of lemonade? It’s simply a crowd-pleaser! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I love using a mix of thighs and drumsticks for this recipe, as they stay juicy and flavorful when grilled. You can use boneless chicken breasts if you prefer, but be careful not to overcook them!
Lemonade: Fresh lemonade gives the best flavor, but if you’re short on time, store-bought works too. You can also use lemon juice mixed with sugar and water as a quick substitute.
Dill: Fresh dill is fantastic in the yogurt sauce, but if you don’t have it, you can substitute with parsley or even chives for a different but yummy flavor.
Greek Yogurt: If you want a lighter option, consider using low-fat Greek yogurt. Non-dairy yogurts, like almond or coconut yogurt, also work well for a dairy-free dipping sauce!
How Do I Ensure My Chicken is Perfectly Grilled?
Grilling chicken can be tricky, but here’s how to get it right!
- Marinating: Let the chicken soak in the marinade for at least 2 hours; giving it more time will make it even tastier. Overnight is best!
- Grill Temperature: Preheat the grill to medium-high, which makes sure the chicken gets those nice grill marks and cooks evenly.
- Don’t Rush: Cook the chicken for 6-8 minutes on each side. Use a meat thermometer to check; it should reach 165°F for safe eating.
- Resting: Let the grilled chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps keep it juicy!
Grilled Lemonade Chicken With Yogurt Dipping Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Marinade:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs and 4 drumsticks (about 3 pounds total)
- 1 cup lemonade (fresh or store-bought)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
- 1 tsp salt
For the Yogurt Dipping Sauce:
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Garnish:
- Lemon halves or slices
- Extra fresh dill
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time, plus at least 2 hours (or up to overnight) for marinating in the fridge. Grilling the chicken will take an additional 15 minutes. So, in total, allot about 2 hours and 30 minutes to 3 hours for a delicious grilled meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a large bowl or zip-top bag, combine the lemonade, minced garlic, olive oil, smoked paprika, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir well or seal the bag and shake until everything is nicely blended.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the chicken thighs and drumsticks to the marinade, ensuring they are fully coated. Seal or cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, ideally letting it sit for 4 hours or overnight to let those flavors mingle.
3. Preheat the Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, heat your grill to medium-high (around 375°F to 400°F). Lightly oil the grill grates to help prevent the chicken from sticking.
4. Grill the Chicken:
Take the chicken out of the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off. Place the chicken on the grill, skin-side down if applicable. Grill for about 6-8 minutes on each side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the chicken is beautifully charred.
5. Make the Yogurt Dipping Sauce:
While the chicken grills, mix together the Greek yogurt, chopped dill, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, and salt and pepper in a small bowl. Stir well and refrigerate until you’re ready to serve.
6. Serve:
Once grilled to perfection, plate up the chicken with lemon halves or slices and a small bowl filled with the yogurt dipping sauce. Don’t forget to sprinkle some extra fresh dill on top for that finishing touch!
7. Enjoy:
Savor your grilled lemonade chicken, dripping with sweet and tangy flavors, perfectly balanced by the cooling herbed yogurt sauce. This dish is ideal for summer gatherings or any night you want something flavorful and refreshing!
Can I Use Other Types of Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While the recipe calls for boneless, skinless thighs and drumsticks, you can use chicken breasts, wings, or even a whole chicken cut into parts. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary, so always check for an internal temperature of 165°F.
Can I Marinate the Chicken Overnight?
Yes, marinating the chicken overnight is a great way to enhance the flavor! Just make sure to store it in the fridge to keep it safe. If marinating longer than 24 hours, consider reducing the acidity in the marinade to prevent the chicken from becoming too mushy.
How Should I Store Leftover Chicken and Sauce?
Store any leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The yogurt dipping sauce can be kept in the fridge for up to a week. To reheat the chicken, warm it gently in the microwave or on the stove to prevent it from drying out.
Can I Make the Yogurt Dipping Sauce Ahead of Time?
Definitely! The yogurt dipping sauce can be made a day in advance. Just mix up the ingredients, place it in an airtight container, and refrigerate. This will allow the flavors to meld beautifully!
