The tantalizing aroma of grilled citrus chicken wafts through the air, instantly making your mouth water and your heart sing. Imagine succulent chicken, marinated in a zesty citrus glaze, grilled to perfection, and served with a vibrant medley of colors that could make even the dullest dinner table feel like a festive fiesta.

Jump to:
- Ingredients for Grilled Citrus Chicken with Glaze
- How to Make Grilled Citrus Chicken with Glaze
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- FAQs:
- What ingredients do I need for Grilled Citrus Chicken with Glaze?
- How long should I grill the chicken?
- Can I use other types of meat in this recipe?
- What sides pair well with Grilled Citrus Chicken?
- Conclusion for Grilled Citrus Chicken with Glaze:
- 📖 Recipe Card
Remember the last time you had a cookout? The sun was shining, laughter filled the air, and someone (probably Uncle Bob) tried to impress everyone with his “secret” grilling technique. Well, this grilled citrus chicken is here to steal the show! With flavors that dance on your palate and an easy prep process that makes you look like a culinary genius, you’ll want to keep this recipe up your sleeve for every occasion.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This amazing chicken marinade offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze.
- You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
- The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
- Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing.
Ingredients for Grilled Citrus Chicken with Glaze
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Choose about 3-4 chicken breasts, depending on how many guests you’re feeding. They should be fresh and plump for best results.
Fresh Orange Juice: This adds a sweet tanginess to the marinade. Look for freshly squeezed juice for maximum flavor.
Lemon Juice: Bright and tart, lemon juice complements the orange juice beautifully.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves will infuse your chicken with a savory depth. No one wants bland chicken!
Olive Oil: A drizzle of olive oil helps keep the chicken moist while grilling.
Honey: Adds a touch of sweetness that balances the acidity from the citrus.
Salt and Pepper: Simple seasonings that enhance all the flavors in this dish.
For the Sauce:
Agar-Agar Powder: A plant-based gelling agent that helps thicken your glaze without any animal products.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Grilled Citrus Chicken with Glaze
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare Your Marinade
In a bowl, combine fresh orange juice, lemon juice, minced garlic, olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper. Whisk until well blended. This marinade will work its magic on your chicken!
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Place your chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish and pour half of the marinade over them. Seal or cover tightly and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least one hour (or overnight if you’re feeling fancy).
Step 3: Preheat Your Grill
While waiting for those flavors to meld together like old friends at a reunion, preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375°F or 190°C). A properly heated grill ensures those perfect grill marks!
Step 4: Grill It Up
Remove the chicken from the marinade (discard that leftover marinade unless you’re planning to boil it into sauce). Place chicken on the grill and cook for about six minutes per side. You want those juices flowing and that delicious golden crust forming.
Step 5: Make Your Glaze
Take the reserved marinade and bring it to a boil in a small saucepan over medium heat. Sprinkle in some agar-agar powder while stirring until thickened slightly—this will create an irresistible glaze.
Step 6: Serve It Right
Once cooked through (internal temperature reaches at least 165°F or about 75°C), transfer your beautifully grilled citrus chicken onto plates. Drizzle with your homemade glaze for that finishing touch!
Now gather your friends around as they marvel at your grilling prowess! This grilled citrus chicken deserves its moment in the spotlight—and so do you! Enjoy every juicy bite while reminiscing about Uncle Bob’s not-so-secret grilling techniques from last summer.
You Must Know
- This amazing chicken marinade offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze.
- You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
- The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
- Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by marinating the chicken to infuse those delightful citrus flavors while you prep your grill. Sear the chicken first to lock in moisture, then finish cooking it on indirect heat to ensure perfection without burning.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out citrus fruits depending on your mood—try lime or grapefruit for a twist! Experiment with herbs like rosemary or cilantro for added flair, or toss in some veggies during grilling for a complete meal.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover grilled citrus chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm it in the oven or skillet to keep it juicy, avoiding the microwave if possible.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Marinating overnight really enhances flavor depth; don’t rush this step for best results.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness at 165°F and avoid overcooking.
- Allowing the chicken to rest after grilling keeps it tender and juicy.
The first time I made grilled citrus chicken was at a family barbecue, and I swear my relatives started taking notes! Their smiles as they devoured every bite were priceless, making me realize cooking can truly connect us all.
FAQs:
What ingredients do I need for Grilled Citrus Chicken with Glaze?
To make Grilled Citrus Chicken with Glaze, gather chicken breasts, orange juice, lemon juice, honey, garlic, olive oil, salt, pepper, and fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary. These ingredients combine to create a delicious marinade and glaze that infuses the chicken with vibrant flavors. For an extra kick, consider adding chili flakes. This dish is perfect for summer barbecues or weeknight dinners. Make sure to marinate your chicken for at least 30 minutes to enhance the flavor before grilling.
How long should I grill the chicken?
Grilling time for your Grilled Citrus Chicken with Glaze will depend on the thickness of the chicken breasts. Generally, grill each side for about 6 to 8 minutes over medium-high heat. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) to ensure it’s fully cooked. For best results, use a meat thermometer to check doneness. Be careful not to overcook it, as this can lead to dry chicken. Once done, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
Can I use other types of meat in this recipe?
Absolutely! While this recipe focuses on chicken, you can easily substitute it with turkey or even lamb for a unique twist on flavors. Adjust cooking times accordingly based on the chosen meat’s thickness and type. If using beef, consider marinating for longer to tenderize it fully. The glaze remains versatile and complements various proteins well while keeping the vibrant citrus flavor intact.
What sides pair well with Grilled Citrus Chicken?
Grilled Citrus Chicken pairs beautifully with various sides that enhance its flavors. Consider serving it alongside grilled vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers or a refreshing salad featuring mixed greens and citrus segments. Additionally, rice pilaf or quinoa can add texture and absorb the delightful glaze. You might also enjoy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs for a heartier option that balances out your meal.
Conclusion for Grilled Citrus Chicken with Glaze:
Grilled Citrus Chicken with Glaze is an easy yet flavorful dish that elevates any meal occasion. With simple ingredients like fresh citrus juices and honey, you’ll create a zesty marinade that perfectly complements chicken’s natural juiciness. Remember to allow time for marination and monitor grilling times carefully for best results. Pair it with fresh sides like salads or grilled veggies to complete your dining experience. Enjoy this delightful dish at your next family gathering or outdoor barbecue!
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📖 Recipe Card
Print
Grilled Citrus Chicken with Glaze
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Grilled Citrus Chicken with Glaze is a bright and flavorful dish that transforms succulent chicken breasts into a mouthwatering meal. Marinated in a zesty blend of fresh orange and lemon juices, garlic, and honey, this chicken is grilled to perfection and drizzled with a delightful glaze. Perfect for summer cookouts or weeknight dinners, this recipe not only impresses with its vibrant colors and tantalizing aromas but is also easy enough for beginner cooks to master.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 1/2 cup fresh orange juice
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp agar-agar powder (for glaze)
Instructions
- In a bowl, whisk together orange juice, lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper to create the marinade.
- Place chicken breasts in a resealable bag or dish and pour half the marinade over the chicken. Seal and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or overnight).
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat (375°F).
- Remove chicken from marinade; discard leftover marinade. Grill chicken for about 6 minutes per side until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Meanwhile, bring reserved marinade to a boil in a saucepan. Stir in agar-agar until thickened to create a glaze.
- Serve grilled chicken drizzled with the glaze.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast (170g)
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 470mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 39g
- Cholesterol: 100mg