Grilled Citrus Chicken
A vibrant and flavorful chicken dish marinated in freshly squeezed citrus juices, perfect for summer cookouts.
Ingredients
For the Marinade
- 1/2 cup Orange juice Freshly squeezed recommended.
- 1/4 cup Lemon juice Preferably freshly squeezed.
- 1/4 cup Lime juice Freshly squeezed enhances flavor.
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil Can substitute with vegetable oil.
- 2 tablespoons Honey Adds sweetness and depth.
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced Enhances overall flavor.
- 1 teaspoon Salt Adjust to taste.
- 1/2 teaspoon Black pepper Freshly ground preferred.
- 1 tablespoon Fresh herbs (thyme or rosemary), chopped Other herbs can be substituted.
For the Chicken
- 4 pieces Chicken breasts Boneless, skinless preferred.
Instructions
Create the Marinade
- Mix together orange juice, lemon juice, lime juice, olive oil, honey, garlic, salt, pepper, and herbs to create the marinade.
Marinate the Chicken
- Place the chicken breasts in a zip-top bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Seal or cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours.
Prepare the Grill
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
Remove Chicken from Marinade
- Take the chicken out of the marinade and discard the marinade.
Grill the Chicken
- Grill the chicken for 6-8 minutes on each side or until fully cooked, with an internal temperature reaching 165°F (75°C).
Add Additional Glaze
- Brush the chicken with additional glaze during the last few minutes of grilling.
Rest and Serve
- Remove from the grill, let rest for a few minutes, then serve with your choice of sides.
Notes
Use Fresh Juice: Freshly squeezed juices will always provide better flavor compared to bottled ones. Marinating Time: For optimal flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 1 hour, but any time between 30 minutes to 4 hours is sufficient. Temperature Matters: Make sure the grill is preheated to avoid sticking and to achieve proper searing. Check Doneness: Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safety. Using a meat thermometer can help with accuracy. Experiment with Herbs: Feel free to experiment with various herbs like basil or cilantro for different flavor profiles. Double the Marinade: For extra glaze, double the marinade and reserve some for brushing while grilling, ensuring it never comes into contact with raw chicken.