We’ve always been fans of Bonefish Grill’s inventive dishes, and their Lily’s Chicken recipe stands out as a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to whip up at home. This grilled chicken delight draws from the restaurant’s fresh flavors, blending tender meat with a hint of citrus and herbs for a restaurant-quality meal.
What makes it special is how it captures that signature Bonefish vibe without the fuss. We’re excited to share our take on this classic, so you can impress your family with a dish that’s both satisfying and simple to prepare.
Ingredients
For our version of the Bonefish Grill Lily’s Chicken recipe, we focus on high-quality, fresh ingredients that bring out the vibrant citrus and herbal notes in every bite. Below, we list them in the order they’re typically prepared and used, with precise measurements and prep details to ensure restaurant-quality results at home.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 pounds) – select even-sized pieces for uniform grilling and tender texture.
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice – freshly squeezed for a bright, tangy citrus flavor that infuses the chicken.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – extra-virgin variety recommended for its rich, fruity undertone and to promote even browning.
- 3 cloves garlic – minced finely to release their aromatic essence and blend seamlessly into the marinade.
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil – chopped just before use to preserve its vibrant, earthy herbs that elevate the dish’s freshness.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme – adds a subtle, woody herb note; if using fresh, opt for 1 tablespoon chopped.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt – enhances overall flavor; use kosher salt for better control.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper – freshly ground for a sharp, spicy kick that complements the citrus.
These ingredients combine to create a simple yet sophisticated meal, perfect for recreating Bonefish Grill’s signature appeal in your kitchen.
Required Equipment
To prepare our Bonefish Grill-inspired Lily’s Chicken recipe with precision and ease, we need a selection of essential tools. These items help us handle the ingredients effectively, from marinating to grilling, ensuring a seamless cooking process that delivers those signature fresh flavors.
Here’s a list of the key equipment, organized by the typical order of use:
- Grill or Grill Pan: We rely on this for achieving the perfect char and smoky essence on the chicken breasts, mimicking the restaurant’s expert grilling technique.
- Cutting Board: A sturdy, non-slip surface is crucial for safely chopping garlic, herbs, and prepping the chicken.
- Chef’s Knife: This sharp blade allows us to slice and prepare ingredients like fresh lemon and herbs with accuracy and efficiency.
- Mixing Bowl: Ideal for combining the marinade ingredients, such as olive oil, lemon juice, and spices, to create a vibrant, flavorful base.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: These ensure precise measurements of ingredients like 1/4 cup of olive oil or 1 tablespoon of thyme, guaranteeing consistent results every time.
- Citrus Juicer: We use this tool to extract fresh lemon juice without seeds or pulp, enhancing the dish’s bright, citrusy notes.
- Tongs: Essential for flipping and handling the chicken on the grill, preventing tears and maintaining tender texture.
- Meat Thermometer: This helps us check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safety and optimal juiciness.
| Equipment Purpose | Recommended Temperature | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Grilling Chicken | 375°F to 450°F | Achieves even char without overcooking |
| Checking Chicken Doneness | 165°F internal | Ensures food safety and tender results |
Instructions
We make recreating the Bonefish Grill Lily’s Chicken recipe straightforward and foolproof so you can enjoy its vibrant citrus flavors and aromatic herbs at home. Let’s dive into the step-by-step process to achieve tender grilled chicken with a perfect char.
Prep Work
Before we start cooking our Bonefish Grill Lily’s Chicken gather and prepare the ingredients for efficiency. Begin by rinsing the boneless skinless chicken breasts under cold water and patting them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture—this ensures even seasoning and grilling.
Next chop the garlic cloves into fine pieces and roughly tear the fresh basil and thyme leaves to release their essential oils. Juice the lemons using a citrus juicer to yield about 1/4 cup of fresh lemon juice then measure out 1/4 cup of olive oil 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. In a mixing bowl combine the lemon juice olive oil chopped garlic torn herbs salt and pepper to create the marinade base.
Marinate the Chicken
Now that our ingredients are prepped we marinate the chicken to infuse it with the signature Bonefish Grill Lily’s Chicken flavors. Place the prepared chicken breasts in the mixing bowl with the marinade mixture ensuring each piece is fully coated.
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours for deeper flavor penetration—the citrus acidity tenderizes the meat while the herbs impart a fragrant earthy aroma that will make your kitchen smell irresistible.
Cook the Chicken
With the chicken marinated we’re ready to cook it to juicy perfection capturing the grilled essence of Bonefish Grill Lily’s Chicken. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat about 400°F and lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
Remove the chicken from the marinade letting any excess drip off then place the breasts on the grill. Cook for 6 to 7 minutes per side flipping once with tongs until the exterior develops a golden-brown char and the internal temperature reaches 165°F as measured by a meat thermometer—the sizzling sounds and smoky scent signal a flavorful crust with tender juicy insides.
Assemble and Serve
Finally we assemble and serve our Bonefish Grill Lily’s Chicken to highlight its fresh appealing presentation. Transfer the grilled chicken to a cutting board and let it rest for 5 minutes to retain its juices.
Slice the chicken into even strips then arrange on plates garnished with extra fresh basil leaves and a drizzle of leftover marinade for added zest. Serve immediately with sides like steamed vegetables or rice to complement the bright lemony tang and herbal notes creating a restaurant-quality meal that delights the senses.
Make-Ahead Tips
To help you enjoy our take on Bonefish Grill’s Lily’s Chicken with minimal effort on the day of serving, we recommend these practical strategies. These tips build on the marinating and grilling steps from our instructions, allowing the fresh citrus and herbal flavors to develop even more, resulting in tender, juicy chicken that’s bursting with vibrant taste.
Preparing the Marinade in Advance
We suggest making the marinade ahead to save time and let flavors meld. Combine fresh lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, chopped basil, thyme, salt, and black pepper in a mixing bowl as outlined in our ingredients section. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 48 hours. This not only simplifies prep but also enhances the citrusy brightness that defines Lily’s Chicken.
Marinating the Chicken Early
For optimal flavor infusion, prepare and marinate the chicken breasts a day ahead. Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish, pour in the marinade, and ensure even coating. Seal and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or up to 24 hours. The longer marination time allows the herbs and garlic to penetrate deeply, making the chicken more succulent and flavorful when grilled.
Grilling and Storing Components
If you’re planning a busy day, grill the marinated chicken ahead and store it for later use. After grilling to an internal temperature of 165°F as per our instructions, let the chicken cool completely, then slice or keep whole. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or place in an airtight container, and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To maintain the dish’s fresh, grilled essence, reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of olive oil—avoid microwaving to preserve the herbs’ aromatic notes and prevent drying.
Freezing for Longer Storage
For extended make-ahead options, freeze the marinated chicken before grilling. After marinating, pat the chicken dry, place it in a freezer-safe bag, and remove as much air as possible. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and grill as directed. This method ensures you always have Bonefish Grill-inspired Lily’s Chicken on hand, with minimal loss of the dish’s zesty, herbal vibrancy.
Reheating and Serving Suggestions
To keep things simple, reheat pre-grilled chicken in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes or until warmed through, adding a fresh squeeze of lemon for extra zest. We advise pairing it with make-ahead sides like a simple salad or grilled vegetables, as mentioned in our serving tips. For the best results, always check the chicken’s internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure it’s safe and retains its juicy texture.
| Make-Ahead Step | Recommended Time Frame | Key Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Prepare Marinade | Up to 48 hours in fridge | Enhances flavor infusion and saves prep time |
| Marinate Chicken | 2-24 hours in fridge | Deepens taste and tenderness |
| Grill and Refrigerate | Up to 3 days in fridge | Convenient for meal planning without compromising freshness |
| Freeze Marinated Chicken | Up to 3 months in freezer | Long-term storage with minimal flavor loss |
Conclusion
We’ve loved guiding you through our take on Bonefish Grill’s Lily’s Chicken. It’s a simple way to bring fresh flavors right to your table and elevate everyday meals.
By trying this recipe you’ll discover how easy it is to create memorable dinners that impress. We’re confident it’ll become a staple in your kitchen so go ahead and enjoy the vibrant taste it offers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Bonefish Grill’s Lily’s Chicken recipe?
Bonefish Grill’s Lily’s Chicken is a popular, easy-to-make dish featuring tender grilled chicken infused with fresh citrus and herbs. It captures the restaurant’s signature flavors, combining lemon juice, garlic, basil, and thyme for a vibrant, restaurant-quality meal you can prepare at home to impress your family.
What ingredients are needed for Lily’s Chicken?
The recipe requires boneless, skinless chicken breasts, fresh lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, basil, thyme, salt, and black pepper. These high-quality ingredients enhance the dish’s citrus and herbal notes, ensuring a fresh, sophisticated flavor that mirrors Bonefish Grill’s appeal.
What equipment is required to make Lily’s Chicken?
You’ll need a grill or grill pan, cutting board, chef’s knife, mixing bowl, measuring cups and spoons, citrus juicer, tongs, and a meat thermometer. This equipment helps achieve a seamless cooking process for juicy, perfectly grilled chicken with Bonefish Grill’s fresh flavors.
How do I prepare Lily’s Chicken at home?
Start by rinsing and drying the chicken, then prepare a marinade with lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, herbs, salt, and pepper. Marinate the chicken, grill it to perfection, and serve with complementary sides for a fresh, restaurant-quality meal that’s simple and satisfying.
Can I make Lily’s Chicken ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the marinade in advance and marinate the chicken early for better flavor. Grill ahead and store in the fridge, or freeze marinated chicken for longer storage. Reheat gently to maintain fresh flavors, making it easy for meal planning and convenient weeknight dinners.