This Easy Citrus Dijon Grilled Chicken is a zesty treat! With a tasty mix of citrus and Dijon mustard, it brings a fresh and bold flavor to your dinner plate.
This dish is so simple to make! I love how I can marinate the chicken, toss it on the grill, and relax while it cooks. Who doesn’t enjoy a tasty meal without too much fuss?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for easy grilling. If you prefer dark meat, chicken thighs work well too and stay juicier during cooking!
Dijon Mustard: This ingredient adds that signature tang. If you don’t have Dijon, yellow mustard can be a substitute, though the flavor will be milder. You could also use whole grain mustard for a different texture.
Fresh Juices: I love using fresh juice for the best flavor. You can substitute bottled juice, but fresh always tastes brighter. Try mixing in different citrus like grapefruit for a twist!
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic adds great depth. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can work (1/4 teaspoon for each clove), but fresh is always better!
Herbs: Dried oregano is handy, but fresh herbs really elevate the dish. You can swap it for thyme or even Italian seasoning if that’s what you have around.
How Do You Get the Chicken Perfectly Grilled?
Getting your chicken well-grilled while keeping it juicy is key. Here’s how to achieve perfect results:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat so the chicken sears properly.
- Make sure to marinate for at least 30 minutes—1 to 2 hours is great for flavor.
- When placing the chicken on the grill, avoid moving it too much. Just turn it once to develop those nice grill marks!
- Use an instant-read thermometer to check if it’s cooked through (165°F/75°C). This helps prevent overcooking.
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This helps keep the juices inside!
These tips will help you serve beautifully grilled chicken every time! Enjoy your cooking!
Easy Citrus Dijon Grilled Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup fresh orange juice (about 1 orange)
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice (about 1 lime)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano or 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Orange, lemon, and lime slices for garnish
- Fresh herbs (such as oregano or thyme) for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Citrus Dijon Grilled Chicken recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 15 minutes to grill. Don’t forget to marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes to enhance the flavor; a longer marination of 1-2 hours is even better. Overall, you can expect about 45 minutes to an hour, with minimal watchful time during cuisson!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a mixing bowl, combine the Dijon mustard, fresh orange juice, lemon juice, lime juice, olive oil, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Whisk until everything is well mixed and creamy. This sauce is packed with flavor!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Place your chicken breasts in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece is nicely coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate the chicken for at least 30 minutes. If you can, let it marinate for 1-2 hours for an even bolder taste.
3. Prepare to Grill:
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, which will give the chicken a nice sear. While the grill is heating, take the chicken out of the marinade and discard any leftover marinade to prevent contamination.
4. Grill the Chicken:
Place the chicken breasts on the hot grill, cooking for about 6-7 minutes on each side. You want the internal temperature to reach 165°F (75°C) for the chicken to be safe to eat. Look for nice grill marks that indicate a delicious sear!
5. Let it Rest:
Once fully cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, which means happier, juicier chicken!
6. Garnish and Serve:
Slice the grilled chicken and serve it on a plate garnished with fresh citrus slices (orange, lemon, and lime) and herbs for a pop of color and extra flavor. Enjoy your bright and tangy meal!
Enjoy the juicy, tangy, and aromatic flavors of this Easy Citrus Dijon Grilled Chicken!
FAQ for Easy Citrus Dijon Grilled Chicken
Can I Use Bone-In Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, bone-in chicken can be used! Just adjust the grilling time since it will take longer to cook through. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) while ensuring the meat near the bone is also cooked properly.
What Should I Do If I Don’t Have Fresh Citrus Fruits?
If fresh citrus is not available, you can use bottled juice instead. Look for 100% juice without added sugars for the best flavor. While fresh juice offers a brighter taste, bottled juice will still work fine in a pinch!
Can I Marinate the Chicken Overnight?
Absolutely! Marinating overnight can help enhance the flavor even more. Just be cautious not to marinate too long, as the acidity in the citrus juices can change the texture of the chicken if left too long.
How to Store Leftovers?
Leftover grilled chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of citrus or broth to keep it moist.
Feel free to ask if you have any more questions about the recipe! Enjoy your cooking adventure!
