This Easy Grilled Citrus Chicken is a zesty treat! It’s marinated in tangy orange and lemon flavors, then grilled to juicy perfection. The sweet glaze adds a fun twist!
I love how this dish brightens up any meal! It’s perfect for summer barbecues or a quick weeknight dinner. Just don’t forget to save some for leftovers—this chicken is a hit! 🍗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect here for quick cooking and tenderness. If you’re looking for alternatives, try using thighs for more flavor, or even tofu for a vegetarian twist.
Fresh Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed orange juice gives a bright, sweet taste. If oranges are out of season, you can use store-bought juice, but choose one without added sugar for the best flavor.
Fresh Lemon Juice: Like with the orange juice, fresh lemon juice adds a tangy kick. If you don’t have fresh lemons, bottled lemon juice can work in a pinch, but the taste won’t be as vibrant.
Honey: Honey adds sweetness and helps create that glaze. If you’re looking for a vegan option, agave syrup or maple syrup can also work well.
Dijon Mustard: This adds a subtle sharpness. If you prefer a milder flavor, you could substitute yellow mustard or even omit it altogether if you’re not a fan.
How Do You Get Your Chicken to Be Super Juicy on the Grill?
Grilling chicken can be tricky, but there are a few key steps to ensure it’s juicy! Marinating the chicken is essential, as it infuses flavor and moisture. Here’s how to do it right:
- Make sure the marinade covers the chicken completely and let it soak for at least 30 minutes. The longer, the better!
- Preheat your grill to medium-high, which helps sear the outside quickly, keeping the juices inside.
- Be mindful not to overcook! Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
Letting the chicken rest after grilling is important too. This helps redistribute the juices, making each bite tender and flavorful. Enjoy your grilling adventure!
Easy Grilled Citrus Chicken With Sweet Glaze
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup fresh orange juice (about 1 large orange)
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 1-2 lemons)
- 2 tbsp honey
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp fresh rosemary, chopped (or 1/2 tsp dried)
- 1/2 tsp chili flakes (optional, for a hint of spice)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Orange slices (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious grilled citrus chicken takes about 10 minutes to prep, plus at least 30 minutes for marinating. You can also marinate it for up to 2 hours for better flavor. Grilling will take about 15 minutes, making the total time around 55 minutes, including letting the chicken rest. Perfect for a quick yet flavorful meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Marinade:
In a medium-sized bowl, combine the fresh orange juice, lemon juice, honey, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, olive oil, chopped rosemary, chili flakes, salt, and black pepper. Whisk everything together until it’s well mixed and you see a nice, cohesive marinade.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Take your chicken breasts and place them in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure all pieces are covered nicely. Seal the bag (or cover the dish) and pop it in the refrigerator. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes but ideally for 1-2 hours for maximum flavor.
3. Heat the Grill:
While the chicken is marinating, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking. This will help you achieve those beautiful grill marks!
4. Grill the Chicken:
After marinating, remove the chicken from the marinade, reserving the remaining marinade for later. Place the chicken on the grill and cook for about 6-8 minutes on each side or until the internal temperature hits 165°F (74°C). You want the chicken to be nicely charred and fully cooked through.
5. Prepare the Sweet Glaze:
While the chicken is grilling, pour the reserved marinade into a small saucepan. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 3-5 minutes until it thickens slightly. This will create a delicious glaze that you can brush onto the chicken!
6. Glaze the Chicken:
In the last few minutes of grilling, use a brush to apply the sweet glaze over the chicken breasts. This will add shine and an extra layer of flavor.
7. Rest and Garnish:
Once done, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, ensuring each bite is juicy and tender. Finally, garnish your chicken with chopped fresh parsley or cilantro and serve it with slices of fresh oranges for a pop of color and extra citrus goodness!
Enjoy your flavorful, juicy grilled citrus chicken with sweet glaze! Perfect for any occasion!
FAQ for Easy Grilled Citrus Chicken With Sweet Glaze
Can I Use Bone-In Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use bone-in chicken pieces such as thighs or drumsticks! Just increase the cooking time on the grill to ensure they cook through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you love a kick, consider adding more chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade. You can also incorporate jalapeño or sriracha into the glaze for some extra heat!
Can I Prep This Dish the Night Before?
Absolutely! Marinate the chicken the night before and keep it covered in the fridge. This helps the flavors develop even more. Just remember to let it sit out for about 15 minutes before grilling for even cooking.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop to keep it moist, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed.
