This grilled citrus chicken is super tasty and easy to make! It’s packed with fresh flavors from oranges and lemons, and the sweet glaze adds a nice touch. Yum!
I love how the grill gives it a lovely char, and the juicy chicken is perfect for a summer meal. Serve it with some rice or a salad, and you’ve got a hit on your hands! 🍗🍊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for grilling! They cook quickly and stay juicy. You could substitute with chicken thighs for a richer flavor, or if you prefer, try using firm tofu for a vegetarian version.
Citrus Juices: Freshly squeezed orange and lemon juice really make this dish shine. If you don’t have fresh juice, bottled juice will work, but fresh is better for that zesty flavor! You could also experiment with lime juice for a different twist.
Honey: Honey provides sweetness and helps to create a nice glaze. If you’re looking for a vegan option, agave syrup or maple syrup can replace honey in equal amounts.
Rosemary: Fresh rosemary adds a lovely aroma. If it’s not available, you can use dried rosemary or even thyme, which also pairs nicely with chicken.
Red Pepper Flakes: These are optional but give a hint of heat. If you prefer, you can leave them out or use another spice, like smoked paprika, for a smoky flavor instead.
How Do I Get My Chicken to Grill Perfectly?
Getting juicy, well-cooked chicken can be tricky, but here’s how to do it right. First, marinate your chicken for at least 30 minutes to infuse flavor. The longer, the better! Make sure your grill is preheated to medium-high. This helps get nice grill marks and seals in juices.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; aim for 165°F (75°C).
- Don’t skip the resting step! Letting the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling helps the juices redistribute, making it tender.
- For extra flavor, brush the reserved marinade on during the last few minutes of grilling.
With these tips, your citrus chicken will turn out delicious every time! Enjoy grilling!
Easy Grilled Citrus Chicken with Sweet Glaze
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped (or 1/2 teaspoon dried)
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for slight heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Orange slices (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious grilled chicken recipe takes about 10-15 minutes of prep time, plus at least 30 minutes to marinate, making it perfect for dinner after work. Add about 15 minutes for grilling, and you’ll be enjoying this tasty meal in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the orange juice, lemon juice, honey, olive oil, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, rosemary, red pepper flakes (if you want a little spice), along with salt and pepper. Mix it until everything is well combined and the honey is dissolved.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Next, place the chicken breasts into a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour half of your delicious citrus marinade over the chicken, making sure to coat it well. Cover and refrigerate the chicken for at least 30 minutes. For richer flavor, letting it marinate for 1 to 2 hours is even better!
3. Preheat the Grill:
While the chicken is marinating, preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 375°F to 400°F). This ensures that your chicken will get nice grill marks and a great flavor.
4. Grill the Chicken:
Once marinated, take the chicken out of the fridge and let the excess marinade drip off. Discard the marinade that touched the raw chicken for safety. Now, place the chicken on the hot grill! Grill each side for about 6-7 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). During the last few minutes, brush the reserved marinade on the chicken for a delicious glossy finish!
5. Rest and Serve:
After grilling, remove the chicken from the heat and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps keep it juicy! Finally, garnish your grilled citrus chicken with freshly chopped parsley and serve with lovely orange slices on the side.
Enjoy your flavorful and juicy grilled citrus chicken with a delightful sweet glaze!
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, but keep in mind it will take longer to cook. Adjust your grilling time to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
Can I Prepare the Marinade in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the marinade a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Just remember to marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes before grilling for the best flavor.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop to avoid drying it out.
What Can I Serve with Grilled Citrus Chicken?
This dish is delightful paired with rice, quinoa, or a fresh garden salad. You could also serve it alongside grilled vegetables or a zesty pasta salad for a well-rounded meal!
