This grilled citrus chicken is juicy and full of flavor! The sweet glaze gives it a nice shine and taste that makes everyone want an extra bite. A perfect dish for summer cookouts!
I always enjoy making this chicken because it’s so easy! Just marinate, grill, and serve. It’s great paired with a fresh salad or on a bun for a tasty sandwich too!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this recipe. They grill quickly and stay juicy. If you prefer dark meat, chicken thighs work wonderfully too!
Citrus Juices: The mix of orange, lemon, and lime gives a bright flavor. If you don’t have fresh juice, you can use bottled, just make sure it’s 100% juice. For a twist, add a splash of grapefruit juice.
Honey: Honey adds sweetness and helps with the glaze. If you’re looking for a vegan option, maple syrup or agave nectar can be a good substitute!
Olive Oil: Olive oil keeps the chicken moist while grilling. You could also use avocado oil or even melted butter if you prefer a richer flavor.
Smoked Paprika: This ingredient adds a hint of smokiness. If you don’t have any, regular paprika or a dash of cayenne pepper for heat works too!
How Do You Get the Perfect Grill Marks on Chicken?
To achieve those beautiful grill marks, here are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Preheat your grill properly. Aim for medium-high heat for the best results.
- Don’t overcrowd the grill. Give each piece of chicken enough space to cook evenly.
- Once you place the chicken on the grill, resist the urge to move it too much. Let it sit for about 6-7 minutes to seal in the flavors and create those marks.
- When flipping, try to rotate the chicken a quarter turn after a few minutes to get crosshatch grill marks!
Easy Grilled Citrus Chicken with Sweet Glaze
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
For the Marinade:
- 1/2 cup fresh orange juice
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
For Garnishing:
- Fresh citrus slices (orange, lemon, lime)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 15 minutes to grill. You should allow at least 30 minutes for marinating the chicken, or up to 2 hours for deeper flavor. The total time including marinating is approximately 1 hour.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Whisk Together the Marinade:
In a bowl, combine the orange juice, lemon juice, lime juice, honey, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Whisk everything together until it’s well mixed. This marinade will infuse the chicken with a delicious citrusy flavor.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Place the chicken breasts in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour half of the marinade over the chicken, making sure it’s well coated. Reserve the other half for glazing. Seal the bag or cover the dish and let it sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. For extra flavor, marinate for up to 2 hours!
3. Grill the Chicken:
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking. Carefully remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the used marinade. Place the chicken on the grill and cook for 6-7 minutes on one side. Flip the chicken and grill for another 6-7 minutes or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and juices run clear.
4. Add the Sweet Glaze:
During the last few minutes of grilling, take the reserved marinade and brush it over the chicken. This will create a lovely, caramelized glaze over the chicken.
5. Let It Rest and Serve:
Once the chicken is done, remove it from the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps to lock in the juices. Garnish with fresh citrus slices and chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor before serving.
Enjoy your tender, flavorful grilled citrus chicken with a beautiful sweet glaze! It’s perfect for any gathering or a delightful weeknight dinner.
FAQ for Easy Grilled Citrus Chicken with Sweet Glaze
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great alternative and stay juicy even if you cook them a bit longer. Just be aware that they may take a few extra minutes on the grill compared to breasts.
How Can I Adjust the Sweetness of the Glaze?
If you prefer a less sweet glaze, simply reduce the amount of honey in the marinade. You can also substitute honey with a sugar-free sweetener or use less concentrated fruit juice for a lighter flavor.
Can I Make This Recipe in the Oven Instead of the Grill?
Yes! If you don’t have a grill, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the marinated chicken on a baking sheet. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, brushing with the reserved glaze midway through cooking for that delicious sweet finish!
What Should I Serve with This Dish?
This grilled citrus chicken pairs beautifully with a fresh salad, grilled veggies, or even rice to soak up the glaze. If you’re looking for something lighter, try serving it with roasted or steamed vegetables.
