This grilled citrus chicken is a burst of flavor with a zesty glaze that brightens your meal. It’s easy to make and perfect for a sunny day!
I love how the sweet and tangy mix makes this dish feel fancy without all the fuss. Plus, it pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad—so refreshing!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best for this recipe. If you want a different texture, feel free to use thighs or even tofu for a plant-based option!
Fresh Orange Juice: Fresh is key for this dish, but if you’re in a pinch, bottled juice is fine. Also, lime juice can be a zesty substitute for an extra kick.
Honey or Maple Syrup: Honey gives a nice sweetness, but if you’re vegan, go for maple syrup. Agave syrup also makes a great alternative!
Herbs: Dried oregano is classic, but fresh rosemary can bring a wonderful flavor. Don’t hesitate to swap in your favorite herbs, like thyme or basil.
How Do You Get Juicy Chicken on the Grill?
Getting juicy chicken requires some simple techniques. First, marinating the chicken not only adds flavor but helps keep it moist during cooking. Here are steps to follow:
- Marinate for at least 30 minutes but let it sit for up to 2 hours for deeper flavor.
- Make sure your grill is preheated to medium-high heat to sear the chicken properly.
- Grill for 6-7 minutes per side and check the internal temperature; it should reach 165°F (75°C).
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling. This helps the juices redistribute, making it tender when you slice it.
Easy Grilled Citrus Chicken With Tangy Glaze
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/3 cup fresh orange juice (about 1 large orange)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano or fresh chopped rosemary
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a slight kick)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Slices of orange (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty grilled chicken recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and then at least 30 minutes to marinate. You’ll want to set aside about 15 minutes for grilling. Overall, the whole process should take around 1 hour but the hands-on time is just 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Tangy Marinade:
Start by grabbing a mixing bowl and whisking together the orange juice, lemon juice, olive oil, honey, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Keep stirring until everything is nicely mixed into a zesty glaze.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Take the chicken breasts and place them in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour half of the citrus marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece is coated well. Seal the bag or cover the dish and put it in the refrigerator. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes, but if you have time, let it sit for up to 2 hours to soak in all the flavors.
3. Preheat the Grill:
While the chicken is marinating, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. To keep the chicken from sticking, lightly oil the grill grate using a paper towel soaked in oil or a non-stick spray.
4. Grill the Chicken:
After marinating, take the chicken out of the bag and discard the used marinade. Place the chicken breasts directly onto the hot grill. Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side. Keep an eye on it to ensure it gets nice grill marks and is cooked through. You can use a meat thermometer to check that the inside has reached 165°F (75°C).
5. Baste for Extra Flavor:
If desired, while the chicken is grilling, baste it occasionally with some of the reserved marinade from earlier (make sure not to use marinade that touched raw chicken!) to add even more flavor from the glaze.
6. Let the Chicken Rest:
Once the chicken reaches the right temperature, carefully remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps keep the juices locked in so your chicken stays moist and flavorful!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Drizzle any remaining glaze over the chicken before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or cilantro and a few slices of orange for a pop of color. Serve your vibrant grilled citrus chicken hot alongside your favorite side dishes, and enjoy the delightful tangy flavors!
FAQ About Easy Grilled Citrus Chicken With Tangy Glaze
Can I Use Other Types of Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While boneless, skinless chicken breasts are recommended for their quick cooking time, you can also use chicken thighs or drumsticks for added richness. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly.
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Citrus Juice?
No worries! If fresh orange or lemon juice isn’t available, bottled juice can be a good substitute. Just look for 100% juice without added sugars for the best flavor. You can also experiment with lime juice for a different twist!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in the microwave or warm it gently in a skillet on the stove while you add a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.
Can I Make the Marinade Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can prepare the marinade a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to use it. Just give it a good stir or shake before adding it to your chicken! This can help save time when you’re ready to grill.
