The magic of dining out often lies in the flavors we long to recreate at home. Among those beloved dishes is the flavorful and zesty Applebees Cedar Grilled Lemon Chicken. With its delicate balance of citrus and smoky undertones, this dish is a favorite for many.
Thankfully, you don’t need to head to Applebees every time you crave it. This blog post will unveil a homemade version of the Applebees Cedar Grilled Lemon Chicken Recipe, allowing you to capture its essence in your own kitchen.
How To Make Applebees Cedar Grilled Lemon Chicken At Home
Unlocking the Applebees Cedar Grilled Lemon Chicken Recipe is a culinary journey. Armed with quality ingredients and guided steps, you’ll soon master this iconic dish, bringing restaurant flavors to your dinner table.
Equipment:
- Grill or grill pan
- Meat thermometer
- Cedar planks (soaked for at least an hour)
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Zester
- Kitchen tongs
Ingredients:
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts — 4
- Lemons, zested and juiced — 2
- Olive oil — 3 tablespoons
- Garlic cloves, minced — 2
- Dried oregano — 1 teaspoon
- Salt and pepper — to taste
- Fresh parsley — for garnish
- Lemon slices — for serving
Applebees Cedar Grilled Lemon Chicken Recipe – Step by Step Instructions
Step 1:
In a mixing bowl, combine lemon zest, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Whisk until well combined.
Step 2:
Add chicken breasts to the marinade and ensure they are well coated. Let them marinate for at least 1 to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
Step 3:
Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Place soaked cedar planks on the grill for about 3 minutes until they’re slightly smoky.
Step 4:
Place the marinated chicken on the cedar planks, reduce the heat to medium, and close the grill lid.
Step 5:
Grill for approximately 6-8 minutes on each side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Step 6:
Once done, remove them from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes.
Step 7:
Serve with fresh parsley and lemon slices to complete the Applebees Cedar Grilled Lemon Chicken Recipe experience.
Tips For Success
- Always soak the cedar planks to prevent them from burning.
- Marinating the chicken overnight will enhance the flavor depth.
- Avoid overcooking, as chicken can become dry.
- Always opt for fresh lemon zest to give that authentic tangy flavor to the Applebees Cedar Grilled Lemon Chicken Recipe.
- Always check the internal temperature to ensure the chicken is cooked through.
Variations
- Herb Twist: Add rosemary or thyme to the marinade for an added layer of flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Add some chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade for a spicy version of the Applebees Cedar Grilled Lemon Chicken Recipe.
- Tropical Version: Replace lemon with lime and add a splash of pineapple juice.
- Mediterranean Style: Top the cooked chicken with feta cheese and olives.
- Asian Flair: Use soy sauce, and ginger, and replace olive oil with sesame oil in the marinade.
Conclusion
The art of replicating cherished restaurant dishes offers immense satisfaction. With the Applebees Cedar Grilled Lemon Chicken Recipe now part of your culinary repertoire, savoring that impeccable blend of zest and smokiness becomes a regular dining delight.
Here’s to triumphant kitchen adventures, reliving cherished memories, and creating new ones. As you dive into each bite, remember the essence of cooking: it’s all about love and passion.
FAQs
How Do I Ensure The Chicken Remains Juicy And Tender?
Marinating the chicken in lemon juice and herbs before grilling can help retain its moisture. Also, avoid overcooking and use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature without drying out.
Can I Prepare The Cedar Grilled Lemon Chicken Without The Cedarwood?
Yes, while cedarwood adds a distinct flavor, the chicken can be grilled without it. However, the characteristic smoky taste will be missing. Consider using alternative woods or smoking methods to achieve a similar flavor.
Is Cedar Grilled Lemon Chicken Dish Healthy?
Cedar Grilled Lemon Chicken is generally considered a healthier option due to its lean protein content and the absence of heavy sauces. However, always be mindful of portion sizes and additional side dishes to maintain a balanced meal.
Can I Pair Cedar Grilled Lemon Chicken Dish With Any Side Dishes?
Absolutely! Cedar Grilled Lemon Chicken complements salads, steamed vegetables, roasted potatoes, creamy pasta, quinoa, rice pilaf, or garlic bread. Mix and match for diverse flavor profiles and a fulfilling culinary experience.
How Do I Store Leftovers Of The Cedar Grilled Lemon Chicken?
Cool leftovers at room temperature. Transfer to an airtight container, and store in the refrigerator. Ensure consumption within 2-3 days to maintain flavor and freshness. Avoid reheating multiple times to retain optimal taste.
Applebees Cedar Grilled Lemon Chicken Recipe
Equipment
- Grill or grill pan
- Meat thermometer
- Cedar planks (soaked for at least an hour)
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Zester
- Kitchen tongs
Ingredients
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts 4
- Lemons, zested and juiced 2
- Olive oil 3 tablespoons
- Garlic cloves, minced 2
- Dried oregano 1 teaspoon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
- Lemon slices for serving
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine lemon zest, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Whisk until well combined.
- Add chicken breasts to the marinade and ensure they are well coated. Let them marinate for at least 1 to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Place soaked cedar planks on the grill for about 3 minutes until they're slightly smoky.
- Place the marinated chicken on the cedar planks, reduce the heat to medium, and close the grill lid.
- Grill for approximately 6-8 minutes on each side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Once done, remove them from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes.
- Serve with fresh parsley and lemon slices to complete the Applebees Cedar Grilled Lemon Chicken Recipe experience.
Notes
- Always soak the cedar planks to prevent them from burning.
- Marinating the chicken overnight will enhance the flavor depth.
- Avoid overcooking, as chicken can become dry.
- Always opt for fresh lemon zest to give that authentic tangy flavor to the Applebees Cedar Grilled Lemon Chicken Recipe.
- Always check the internal temperature to ensure the chicken is cooked through.
