This Grilled Citrus Chicken is a juicy delight, bursting with refreshing flavors. The special glaze made from citrus juices gives it a sweet and tangy kick that everyone loves!
I can’t help but smile when I’m grilling this chicken. It’s so easy to make, and it’s always a hit at barbecues. Pair it with some fresh salad, and you’re ready to impress! 🌟
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless are great for grilling, as they cook evenly. If you prefer dark meat, you can substitute with boneless chicken thighs for a juicier texture.
Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed orange juice enhances the flavor, but if you have store-bought, that’s fine too! You could also use tangerine juice for a different twist.
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice gives the dish a bright flavor. If you don’t have lemons, consider substituting with lime juice for a zesty kick, or even vinegar in a pinch.
Honey: Honey adds sweetness and helps create the glaze. If you’re vegan or want a lower calorie option, agave syrup or maple syrup also work well.
Soy Sauce: This ingredient adds umami. You can use low-sodium soy sauce to cut back on salt, or tamari for a gluten-free option. If avoiding soy entirely, try coconut aminos.
How Do I Marinate Chicken for the Best Flavor?
Marinating chicken is crucial for infusing flavor and ensuring it stays juicy. Here’s how to do it right:
- Mix all marinade ingredients in a bowl. Make sure to combine well.
- Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then place it in a resealable bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over it, ensuring every piece is coated.
- Seal the bag or cover the dish, and let it marinate in the fridge. For at least 1 hour is good, but letting it sit overnight really deepens the flavor.
Remember, always discard the used marinade to avoid contamination. Using some of it to baste the chicken while grilling can create a tasty glaze!
How to Make Grilled Citrus Chicken With Glaze
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Marinade:
- 1/2 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed if possible)
- 1/4 cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For The Chicken:
- 4 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
For Garnish:
- Lemon and orange slices
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time, plus at least 1 hour for marinating (longer is better, preferably overnight). The grilling will take around 15-20 minutes, making it a total of approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes to enjoy this delicious dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a medium-sized bowl, mix together the orange juice, lemon juice, honey, soy sauce, olive oil, minced garlic, and chopped rosemary. Stir well until everything is combined. This will be your flavorful marinade!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Place the chicken in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring they are well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. If you have time, letting it sit overnight will really deepen the flavors.
3. Preheat the Grill:
When you’re ready to grill, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This ensures a nice sear on the chicken and enhances the flavor.
4. Grill the Chicken:
Take the chicken out of the marinade and let the excess drip off. Discard the marinade. Place the chicken on the grill and cook each breast for about 6-7 minutes on each side. You want them to reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and get those lovely grill marks.
5. Baste for Extra Flavor:
If you want to create a delicious glaze, you can baste the chicken with some of the reserved marinade while it’s grilling. This step adds a wonderful flavor and shine!
6. Rest and Serve:
After the chicken is done, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps keep it juicy. Slice the chicken and arrange it on a serving platter. Garnish with fresh rosemary and slices of lemon and orange for a beautiful touch.
7. Enjoy!
Serve your warm, grilled citrus chicken and enjoy the bright flavors! It’s perfect for a sunny day outdoors or a lovely dinner inside.
Can I Use Different Citrus Juices?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match juices like grapefruit or lime along with the orange and lemon. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile will change slightly, so choose what you love best!
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Citrus Juice?
No problem! You can use bottled citrus juices in a pinch. Just make sure to pick a high-quality, 100% juice for the best flavor. The marinating time and cooking method will remain the same.
How Can I Store Leftover Chicken?
Store any leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. For best results, slice it before storing to make reheating quicker and easier. You can reheat in the microwave or on a skillet over medium heat.
Can I Make This Recipe on a Stove or Oven?
Definitely! If you don’t have a grill, you can cook the chicken in a skillet over medium-high heat, using a bit of oil to prevent sticking. Alternatively, bake the chicken in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until it reaches 165°F (75°C).
