This Easy Grilled Citrus Chicken is juicy and bursting with flavor! The sweet glaze adds a tasty touch that makes every bite delightful.
I love how quick it is to whip up. Just marinate, grill, and enjoy a bright meal that feels fancy without all the fuss. Perfect for a sunny day! ☀️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a quick grill. If you prefer dark meat, chicken thighs work great too! They tend to stay juicier.
Fresh Orange Juice: Fresh juice adds brightness. If you don’t have oranges, try using substitute bottled orange juice or use another citrus like grapefruit for a different twist.
Fresh Lemon Juice: Just like the oranges, fresh is best! You can swap it with lime juice for a zesty flavor. If fresh isn’t available, bottled will work as well.
Honey: Honey lends sweetness. If you need to avoid it, agave syrup or maple syrup are suitable alternatives – just adjust to taste as they may vary in sweetness.
Dijon Mustard: This brings a nice tanginess. If it’s not on hand, yellow mustard can also work, but it’s milder. For a different flavor, you can skip it entirely.
How Do You Marinate Chicken for Maximum Flavor?
Marinating is key for juicy, flavorful chicken. Here’s how to do it right:
- Combine citrus juices, garlic, honey, and seasonings in a bowl.
- Place chicken in a resealable bag or dish and add half of the marinade. Seal tightly.
- Let it rest in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, but longer is better! Aim for 1-2 hours for full flavor.
Don’t forget to discard the marinade used for soaking once the chicken is ready to grill. For safety, only use the reserved marinade for glazing!
How to Make Easy Grilled Citrus Chicken With Sweet Glaze
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/3 cup fresh orange juice (about 1 orange)
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for mild heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped for garnish
- Orange slices, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires approximately 10 minutes of prep time plus at least 30 minutes of marinating time. Cooking the chicken will take about 10-12 minutes on the grill. Altogether, expect around 1 hour for a delicious meal that’s perfect for a sunny day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the fresh orange juice, lemon juice, minced garlic, honey, Dijon mustard, olive oil, oregano, red pepper flakes (if you like a bit of heat), salt, and pepper. This mixture will act as both your marinade and glaze, giving your chicken tons of flavor.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Take your chicken breasts and place them in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour half of the marinade over the chicken, making sure it’s well coated. Cover or seal it and pop it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. For even more flavor, consider marinating for 1 to 2 hours!
3. Preheat the Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. To prevent sticking, lightly oil the grill grates with a paper towel soaked in oil.
4. Grill the Chicken:
Remove the chicken from the marinade (discard the marinade you used for soaking!) and place the chicken breasts on the hot grill. Grill them for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
5. Add the Glaze:
In the last few minutes of grilling, brush the reserved marinade glaze onto the chicken frequently. This will create a shiny, flavorful coating that enhances the taste.
6. Let it Rest:
Once the chicken is cooked, take them off the grill and let them rest for about 5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping your chicken juicy.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Plate your grilled chicken and garnish it with chopped fresh parsley or cilantro for a pop of color. Serve with slices of orange on the side for a refreshing citrus touch.
Enjoy your juicy, vibrant grilled citrus chicken with sweet glaze! It’s perfect for a tasty dinner, special occasions, or weekend BBQs.
FAQ for Easy Grilled Citrus Chicken With Sweet Glaze
Can I Use Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great alternative if you prefer dark meat. They tend to be juicier and more forgiving on the grill, making for a delicious meal.
Can I Marinate the Chicken Overnight?
Yes, marinating the chicken overnight is a fantastic way to enhance the flavor! Just be sure to keep it in the refrigerator and be cautious not to marinate for too long, as the citrus can start to break down the meat, making it mushy. About 12 hours is ideal.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the chicken in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat to avoid drying it out.
What Can I Serve This Chicken With?
This grilled citrus chicken pairs wonderfully with rice, quinoa, or a fresh green salad. For a complete meal, serve it with roasted vegetables or a side of garlic bread!
