Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken Recipe

Tofu: Extra firm tofu is used as a plant-based protein substitute. Make sure to press and slice it before marinating.

Olive oil: This is used as the base for the marinade, adding richness and helping to transfer the flavors of the herbs and spices.

Lemon juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice adds a bright, tangy flavor to the marinade.

Lemon zest: The zest of the lemon provides an intense citrus aroma and flavor.

Garlic: Minced garlic adds a pungent, savory depth to the marinade.

Oregano: Dried oregano brings a slightly bitter, earthy flavor that complements the lemon and garlic.

Thyme: Dried thyme adds a subtle, minty flavor that pairs well with the other herbs.

Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the dish.

Black pepper: Freshly ground black pepper adds a hint of heat and complexity.

When marinating tofu, ensure that each slice is evenly coated by gently massaging the marinade into the tofu. This helps the flavors penetrate more deeply. Additionally, pressing the tofu beforehand removes excess moisture, allowing it to absorb more of the lemon herb mixture. For best results, let the tofu marinate for at least 30 minutes to an hour if time permits.

• Extra firm tofu - Substitute with seitan: Seitan has a chewy texture similar to chicken and absorbs marinades well.

• Olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a high smoke point and a neutral flavor, making it suitable for grilling.

• Freshly squeezed lemon juice - Substitute with lime juice: Lime juice provides a similar acidic and citrusy flavor profile.

• Lemon zest - Substitute with lime zest: Lime zest offers a comparable citrus aroma and flavor.

• Minced garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can provide a similar garlic flavor if fresh garlic is unavailable.

• Dried oregano - Substitute with dried basil: Dried basil offers a different but complementary herbaceous flavor.

• Dried thyme - Substitute with dried rosemary: Dried rosemary provides a robust and earthy flavor that pairs well with lemon.

• Salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce adds saltiness along with a depth of umami flavor.

• Freshly ground black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a milder flavor and can be used similarly to black pepper.

• Allow the tofu to cool completely before storing. This helps to maintain its texture and flavor.

• Transfer the cooled tofu slices into an airtight container. If you have multiple layers, separate them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

• Store the container in the refrigerator. The tofu will stay fresh for up to 4-5 days.

• For longer storage, consider freezing. Place the tofu slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, ensuring they do not touch each other. Freeze until solid, about 1-2 hours.

• Once frozen, transfer the tofu slices to a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date to keep track of freshness.

• When ready to use, thaw the tofu in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat on the grill or in a skillet until warmed through.

• Avoid microwaving as it can alter the texture of the tofu.

• Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover tofu slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover them with aluminum foil to prevent drying out. Heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.

• Stovetop Method: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of olive oil to the pan. Place the tofu slices in the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until heated through and slightly crispy.

• Microwave Method: Place the tofu slices on a microwave-safe plate. Cover with a microwave-safe lid or another plate to retain moisture. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure even heating.

• Air Fryer Method: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the tofu slices in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even heating.

• Grill Method: Preheat your grill to medium heat. Wrap the tofu slices in aluminum foil to prevent them from drying out. Grill for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until heated through.

• Grill: Used to cook the tofu slices, giving them a nice char and grill marks.

• Mixing bowl: Used to combine the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper to create the marinade.

• Tongs: Used to place the marinated tofu slices on the grill and to flip them during cooking.

• Knife: Used to slice the block of extra firm tofu.

• Cutting board: Provides a surface to press and slice the tofu.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure out the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper.

• Garlic press: Used to mince the garlic cloves efficiently.

• Basting brush: Optional tool to brush any remaining marinade onto the tofu while it grills.

• Plate: Used to serve the grilled tofu once it is cooked.

Prepare the marinade in advance: Mix the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper ahead of time and store it in the fridge.

Use a tofu press: Invest in a tofu press to quickly remove excess water from the tofu, ensuring it absorbs the marinade better.

Preheat the grill: Start preheating your grill while the tofu is marinating to save time.

Slice tofu evenly: Cut the tofu into uniform slices to ensure even cooking and better presentation.