Easy Grilled Citrus Chicken with Sweet Glaze

Category: Chicken Recipes

This Easy Grilled Citrus Chicken is packed with zesty flavors that will make your taste buds smile! The sweet glaze adds a yummy touch that makes every bite so special.

It’s a breeze to make—just marinate, grill, and enjoy. I love serving it with fresh veggies or a simple salad. Perfect for sunny days or any time you want a bright meal! 🍗🍊

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are easy to work with and cook quickly on the grill. If you prefer dark meat, feel free to substitute with boneless thighs for a juicier texture.

Orange Juice: Fresh orange juice gives the best flavor! If oranges aren’t available, use store-bought juice, but check for added sugars. You can also use other citrus, like grapefruit or lime, for a different taste.

Lemon Juice: It adds acidity which helps balance sweetness. If you don’t have fresh lemons, bottled lemon juice works too. Or vinegar can also be a last resort, just use it sparingly.

Honey or Maple Syrup: I often lean toward honey for its rich flavor, but maple syrup is a great alternative, especially if you want a vegan option. Just remember, it may slightly change the taste.

Herbs: Dried oregano or Italian seasoning is perfect here. You can switch them up based on what you like or have—rosemary or thyme can add a nice flavor too!

How Can You Ensure the Chicken is Tender and Juicy?

The key to tender, juicy chicken lies in the marinating process. Allowing the chicken to soak in the marinade not only infuses flavor but also tenderizes the meat. Here’s how to do it right:

  • Marinate for at least 30 minutes, but 1-2 hours is ideal. If you have time, overnight marinating is even better!
  • Always let the chicken sit outside for a few minutes before grilling; this brings it closer to room temperature, ensuring even cooking.
  • Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. 165°F (75°C) means it’s cooked perfectly.
  • Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after grilling. This step is crucial as it allows the juices to redistribute, making your chicken moist.

These tips and insights will help you create a delicious and juicy grilled citrus chicken that’s full of flavor! Enjoy your cooking!

Easy Grilled Citrus Chicken with Sweet Glaze

Easy Grilled Citrus Chicken with Sweet Glaze

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Chicken:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

For the Marinade:

  • 1/3 cup fresh orange juice (about 1 large orange)
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice (about half a lemon)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

For Garnish:

  • Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
  • Optional: orange slices for garnish

How Much Time Will You Need?

This recipe requires about 10 minutes of prep time, plus at least 30 minutes for marinating. Grilling takes approximately 15 minutes. Overall, you’ll be enjoying your delicious grilled chicken in about 1 hour, including marinating time!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Marinade:

In a medium bowl, whisk together the fresh orange juice, lemon juice, olive oil, honey or maple syrup, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well until it’s nicely combined. This will be the flavorful marinade for your chicken!

2. Marinate the Chicken:

Place the chicken breasts in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. If you have time, marinating for 1-2 hours will give even more flavor!

3. Get Grilling!

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grate to prevent the chicken from sticking. Once ready, take the chicken out of the marinade, letting any excess drip off. Keep the leftover marinade to baste the chicken while it cooks.

4. Grill the Chicken:

Grill the chicken breasts for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and have beautiful grill marks. As the chicken cooks, use the reserved marinade for basting to add a sweet glaze and keep the chicken moist.

5. Let it Rest:

Once done, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring it stays nice and juicy.

6. Serve and Enjoy:

Transfer the chicken to a serving plate, and garnish with chopped fresh parsley or cilantro. Add some orange slices on the side for a touch of brightness. Serve this juicy chicken warm with your favorite sides like grilled veggies, rice, or salad!

Enjoy your flavorful and juicy grilled citrus chicken with a delightful sweet glaze!

Easy Grilled Citrus Chicken with Sweet Glaze

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great alternative and tend to be juicier due to their higher fat content. Just adjust the cooking time slightly as they may take a bit longer to cook through—aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

What if I Don’t Have Fresh Citrus Juice?

If fresh orange or lemon juice isn’t available, you can use bottled citrus juice. Just be sure to choose a brand without added sugars for the best flavor. In a pinch, a splash of vinegar can also work, but reduce the amount as it’s more acidic.

How to Store Leftovers?

Store leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, you can reheat in a microwave or a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.

Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?

Yes! To make a vegan version, use firm tofu or tempeh instead of chicken. Marinate and grill as you would for the chicken. Adjust cooking times accordingly, as tofu typically cooks faster.

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