Grilled Citrus Chicken with Glaze is a delightful dish that combines juicy chicken with a tangy, sweet citrus glaze, making it a perfect choice for any meal. This recipe not only highlights the bright flavors of citrus but also ensures that your chicken remains tender and packed with moisture. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or simply looking to jazz up your weeknight dinner, this grilled chicken recipe is both satisfying and simple to prepare. Summer side dish salad In just under an hour, you can have a restaurant-quality meal on the table that will impress family and friends alike. With minimal ingredients required and straightforward cooking techniques, you’ll find this dish to be both accessible and delicious. Serve it alongside fresh vegetables or over a bed of rice to soak up the glorious glaze, and you’ll have a complete meal that everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Grilled Citrus Chicken with Glaze Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Minimal prep time and straightforward steps make this recipe stress-free, even for novice cooks
- Flavorful and Versatile: Enjoy outstanding flavor with ingredients you can easily customize by adding your favorites or adjusting spices
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for casual gatherings, holiday celebrations, or weeknight dinners
Ingredients for Grilled Citrus Chicken with Glaze Recipe
For more inspiration, check out this Preserved Lemons Recipe recipe.
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding
- Fresh Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed juice brings out the best flavors in the marinade; avoid bottled options if possible
- Lemon Juice: Adds brightness and acidity to balance the sweetness of the orange juice
- Honey: Provides natural sweetness that complements the citrus well while helping create a nice glaze when grilled
For the Sauce:
- Soy Sauce: Use low-sodium soy sauce to better control the saltiness
- Garlic Powder: A staple seasoning that enhances the overall flavor profile of your chicken
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Grilled Citrus Chicken with Glaze Recipe
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a large bowl or resealable bag, combine freshly squeezed orange juice, lemon juice, honey, soy sauce, and garlic powder. Add the chicken breasts to the mixture and ensure they are fully coated. Allow marinating for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator for maximum flavor.
Step 2: Preheat Your Grill
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F or 200°C). If using a charcoal grill, ensure that the coals are evenly distributed for consistent cooking.
Step 3: Prepare for Grilling
Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing any excess liquid to drip off. Discard any leftover marinade as it should not be reused.
Step 4: Grill the Chicken
Place the chicken on the preheated grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side or until internal temperature reaches at least 165°F (75°C).
Step 5: Glaze During Cooking
During the last few minutes of grilling, brush an additional layer of honey over each breast to create a sticky glaze.
Step 6: Rest and Serve
Once cooked through, remove from grill and let rest for about five minutes before slicing. Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch.
Tips and Tricks
Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:
- Even Cooking: Make sure all chicken breasts are of similar thickness for consistent cooking times
- Temperature Control: Let chicken reach room temperature before grilling for more even cooking
- Advanced Technique: For enhanced flavor, consider marinating overnight in the refrigerator
How to Serve Grilled Citrus Chicken with Glaze Recipe
This Grilled Citrus Chicken with Glaze Recipe is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:
- Rice or Potatoes: A hearty base that soaks up the delicious sauce.
- Fresh Salad: Adds a crisp and refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.
- Crusty Bread: Perfect for enjoying every last drop of the flavorful sauce.
Feel free to pair it with your favorite sides for a personalized meal!
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: You can marinate the chicken in the citrus glaze for up to 24 hours before grilling. This enhances flavor and tenderness. Prepare the glaze by mixing your citrus juices and spices, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator until you’re ready to use it.
- Storing: Store leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. If you want to keep it longer, freeze it for up to three months. Make sure to label the container with the date for tracking.
- Reheating: To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken on a baking sheet covered with foil to retain moisture and heat for about 15-20 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave it on medium power in short bursts, checking frequently until heated through.
Suggestions for Grilled Citrus Chicken with Glaze Recipe
Avoid Over-Marinating the Chicken
One common mistake when preparing grilled citrus chicken is over-marinating. While marinating adds flavor and moisture, too long in the marinade can lead to a mushy texture. Citrus juices contain acids that break down proteins in the chicken. For best results, marinate your chicken for 30 minutes to 2 hours. This timeframe allows the flavors to penetrate without compromising the meat’s integrity. Remember to refrigerate the chicken while marinating to prevent bacterial growth.
Not Preheating the Grill
Another frequent error is neglecting to preheat the grill. Starting with a hot grill ensures that your grilled citrus chicken sears properly, locking in juices and flavors. If you place chicken on a cold grill, it may stick and cook unevenly. Preheat your grill for at least 10-15 minutes before cooking. You should aim for a temperature of around 400°F (200°C) for perfect grilling. This step is crucial for achieving those beautiful grill marks and enhancing flavor.
Ignoring Internal Temperature
Many cooks ignore checking the internal temperature of grilled chicken. Undercooked chicken can pose serious health risks, while overcooking leads to dryness. Use a meat thermometer to ensure your grilled citrus chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the meat without touching bone for accurate readings. This practice not only guarantees safety but also helps maintain juiciness.
Skipping Resting Time
Failing to let the grilled citrus chicken rest is another mistake that can affect your dish’s quality. Resting allows juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more succulent final product. After grilling, remove the chicken and let it rest for about 5-10 minutes under foil or a clean kitchen towel. This simple step enhances flavor and juiciness, ensuring each bite is delicious and satisfying.
FAQs
What ingredients do I need for Grilled Citrus Chicken with Glaze Recipe?
For this delightful recipe, you’ll need boneless chicken breasts or thighs as your main protein source. Additionally, gather fresh citrus fruits like oranges, lemons, or limes for zest and juice; these will provide vibrant flavors that complement the chicken beautifully. Chicken fajita protein bowl You’ll also require olive oil, garlic, salt, pepper, and honey or brown sugar for sweetness in your glaze. Optional ingredients include fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to enhance the aroma and taste further.
How long should I grill my Citrus Chicken?
The grilling time for your grilled citrus chicken typically ranges from 6 to 8 minutes per side, depending on thickness and grill temperature. A good rule of thumb is that boneless chicken breasts take about 12-16 minutes total on medium-high heat until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Always keep an eye on cooking times as they may vary between grills and types of chicken used.
Can I use other marinades besides citrus?
Absolutely! While this recipe focuses on a citrus marinade, you can experiment with various flavors by using different herbs and spices or even vinegar-based marinades. Consider incorporating soy sauce or balsamic vinegar for deeper umami notes or adding spices like cumin and paprika for warmth. However, always remember to balance acidity levels when substituting citrus components.
What side dishes pair well with Grilled Citrus Chicken?
Grilled citrus chicken pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that complement its bright flavors. Consider serving it alongside a light salad featuring mixed greens, avocado slices, and a vinaigrette dressing for freshness. Grilled vegetables such as zucchini or bell peppers also make excellent accompaniments. For a hearty option, try serving over rice or quinoa seasoned with herbs that echo those used in your glaze.
Conclusion for Grilled Citrus Chicken with Glaze Recipe
In conclusion, mastering the grilled citrus chicken with glaze recipe involves avoiding common pitfalls such as over-marinating and skipping preheating steps. By ensuring proper grilling techniques—like checking internal temperatures—and allowing resting time after cooking, you can achieve juicy and flavorful results every time you prepare this dish. Coconut chicken with citrus Remember that experimenting with marinades can also elevate your culinary experience while delicious sides enhance this delightful meal further. Enjoy crafting this refreshing recipe that brings vibrant flavors straight from your grill!
Grilled Citrus Chicken with Glaze
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Description
Savor the bright flavors of Grilled Citrus Chicken with Glaze, a quick and easy dish that transforms succulent chicken breasts into a zesty delight. Perfect for summer barbecues or busy weeknights, this recipe features a tantalizing sweet-and-tangy glaze that elevates your meal. Pair it with fresh vegetables or fluffy rice to soak up the delicious sauce for a complete family-friendly feast.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (approximately 1.5 lbs)
- 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 3 tbsp honey
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tsp garlic powder
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine orange juice, lemon juice, honey, soy sauce, and garlic powder. Add chicken breasts and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat (400°F).
- Remove chicken from marinade, allowing excess liquid to drip off. Discard leftover marinade.
- Grill chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side or until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- In the last few minutes of grilling, brush additional honey on each breast for a sticky glaze.
- Remove from grill and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast (approximately 6 oz)
- Calories: 270
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
