Print

Grilled Citrus Chicken Recipe

4.4 from 137 reviews

This Grilled Citrus Chicken recipe features tender chicken marinated in a vibrant blend of fresh orange and lemon juice for a burst of citrus flavor. Perfectly grilled to juicy perfection and finished with a light glaze, this dish is a healthy and flavorful option for a quick weeknight meal or weekend barbecue.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

Marinade

  • 1/2 cup fresh orange juice
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Glaze

  • 2 tablespoons orange juice
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon honey

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, combine the fresh orange juice, lemon juice, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Whisk together until well mixed to create a zesty citrus marinade.
  2. Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a shallow dish or resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are coated evenly. Refrigerate and let marinate for at least 30 minutes to 1 hour to absorb the flavors.
  3. Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 375-400°F (190-204°C), and lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
  4. Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade and place on the heated grill. Cook each side for 6-7 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and juices run clear. Avoid moving the chicken too much to get nice grill marks.
  5. Prepare the Glaze: While the chicken cooks, in a small saucepan or bowl, mix orange juice, lemon juice, and honey. Warm gently if desired to combine the flavors better.
  6. Brush with Glaze: During the last few minutes of grilling, brush the citrus glaze over the chicken breasts on both sides. This will add a sweet and tangy finishing touch and enhance the caramelization.
  7. Rest and Serve: Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This helps retain the juices for a moist and flavorful meal.

Notes

  • Marinating the chicken longer (up to 4 hours) will deepen the citrus flavor.
  • Serve with a fresh green salad or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is safely cooked through without overcooking.
  • For extra zest, add some grated lemon or orange zest to the marinade.
  • If you prefer, chicken thighs can be used instead of breasts for a juicier result.

Keywords: Grilled chicken, Citrus chicken, Healthy dinner, BBQ chicken, Orange lemon marinade