Catch a whiff of sunshine and zest, and you’ll stumble upon the culinary treasure that is our Grilled Citrus Chicken with Glaze Recipe. Imagine biting into succulent chicken marinated in a symphony of citrus juices, kissed by the smoky notes of the grill. This dish doesn’t just tantalize your taste buds; it sends them on a joyous vacation to Flavor Town!

Now, if you’re anything like me, the kitchen can sometimes feel like your personal version of reality TV—minus the glamorous chef and with more smoke alarms. But fear not! This recipe is so easy and delicious that even your kitchen disasters will turn into triumphant tales worth sharing over dinner. Get ready for a flavor explosion that makes any occasion feel special, whether it’s a backyard barbecue or a simple weeknight dinner.

Ingredients for Grilled Citrus Chicken with Glaze 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: Opt for freshly squeezed juice for maximum flavor and zest; it’s like sunshine in a bottle.
• Lemon Juice: A splash adds brightness to the marinade; think of it as citrus confetti at your flavor party!
• Honey: This natural sweetener balances out the acidity from the citrus beautifully.
• Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic brings an aromatic punch to this dish; don’t skimp on it unless you plan to ward off vampires tonight!

For the Sauce:

• Soy Sauce: Use low-sodium soy sauce to better control the saltiness without sacrificing flavor.
• Olive Oil: A drizzle enhances moisture and adds richness to your grilled chicken.
• Black Pepper: Freshly cracked black pepper gives an extra kick to your glaze.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

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How to Make Grilled Citrus Chicken with Glaze Recipe

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare Your Marinade

In a bowl, combine fresh orange juice, lemon juice, honey, minced garlic, soy sauce, and olive oil. Whisk until well blended—your new best friend is officially born!

Step 2: Marinate Your Chicken

Place those beautiful chicken breasts into a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour your zesty marinade over them, ensuring they are fully coated. Seal tightly (but not too tight; we don’t want any angry chicken explosions) and refrigerate for at least one hour—or longer if you want those flavors to hang out together longer.

Step 3: Preheat Your Grill

Get that grill going! Preheat it to medium-high heat—about 375°F (190°C) should do the trick. If using charcoal, let those coals get nice and ashy.

Step 4: Grill Time!

Remove the chicken from its flavorful bath and discard the used marinade (it’s had its fun). Place the chicken on the grill grate—listen for that satisfying sizzle! Grill for about six to seven minutes per side or until fully cooked through (internal temperature should reach at least 165°F or 74°C).

Step 5: Prepare Your Sauce

While your chicken is grilling away, take another small bowl and mix together some leftover marinade (if you saved some before adding it to raw chicken) with a little honey and soy sauce. Heat this mixture gently in a saucepan until bubbly but not boiling—this will be your glaze.

Step 6: Serve It Up

Once grilled perfection is achieved, transfer your chicken onto plates. Drizzle your luscious glaze over each piece as if you’re giving them a warm hug of flavor. Serve with sides like roasted veggies or rice for an unforgettable meal!

And there you have it! A mouthwatering Grilled Citrus Chicken with Glaze Recipe that’s sure to impress friends and family alike (and maybe even earn you some bragging rights in the kitchen). Enjoy every juicy bite as you relish in that sweet victory of meal prep mastery!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To achieve grilled citrus chicken perfection, start by marinating your chicken while you prepare your grill or oven. Sear the chicken first for a crispy exterior, then cook it through while basting with the glaze for extra flavor.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out citrus juices based on your preference—try lime or grapefruit! Add herbs like rosemary or thyme for an aromatic twist, or toss in a handful of chopped jalapeños if you’re feeling spicy.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover grilled citrus chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, pop it in the oven at 350°F until warmed through or give it a quick sear in a skillet.

It was during one of those sunny backyard barbecues when my friend declared this recipe “the best thing I’ve ever tasted.” We laughed as we devoured every last bite, leaving no room for dessert!

FAQs:

What is the best way to marinate chicken for grilling?

Marinating chicken enhances its flavor and moisture. For grilled citrus chicken, combine fresh citrus juices like lemon and orange with olive oil, garlic, and herbs. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes to several hours. This time lets the flavors penetrate the meat, ensuring a juicy and tender result. Remember not to over-marinate as the acidity can break down the meat too much, making it mushy.

How can I make a glaze for grilled chicken?

To create a delicious glaze for your grilled citrus chicken, mix equal parts of citrus juice (like lime or orange) with honey or maple syrup. Add soy sauce and garlic for depth. Simmer the mixture on low heat until it thickens slightly. Brush this glaze onto the chicken during the last few minutes of grilling for a shiny, flavorful finish that caramelizes beautifully on the grill.

Can I use different fruits for this recipe?

Absolutely! While this recipe focuses on citrus fruits like oranges and lemons, you can experiment with other fruits such as pineapple or peaches. These fruits add unique sweetness and acidity, enhancing the overall taste of your grilled chicken. Just ensure that any fruit juices you use balance well with your chosen seasonings to maintain flavor harmony.

What sides pair well with grilled citrus chicken?

Grilled citrus chicken pairs deliciously with various sides. Consider serving it alongside a refreshing cucumber salad or roasted vegetables drizzled with olive oil. Additionally, quinoa or rice pilaf seasoned with fresh herbs complements the dish nicely. For a lighter option, you could also serve it with steamed asparagus or a simple mixed green salad topped with vinaigrette.

Conclusion for Grilled Citrus Chicken with Glaze Recipe:

In summary, this grilled citrus chicken with glaze recipe offers a delightful combination of flavors that are both vibrant and satisfying. With simple ingredients like fresh citrus juices and savory spices, you can create a dish that impresses everyone at your table. Marinating your chicken properly ensures tenderness while glazing adds a beautiful finish during grilling. Enjoy this easy yet flavorful meal that is perfect for any occasion!

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Grilled Citrus Chicken with Glaze

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• Author: Adeline
• Total Time: 29 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Grilled Citrus Chicken with Glaze is a vibrant and flavorful dish perfect for any occasion. This succulent chicken, marinated in a zesty blend of fresh orange and lemon juice, captures the essence of summer. Grilled to perfection, it delivers a smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with the citrus glaze. Ideal for backyard barbecues or casual weeknight dinners, this recipe is simple enough for novice cooks yet impressive enough to wow your guests.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
• 1/2 cup fresh orange juice
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
• 2 tbsp honey
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 tsp black pepper

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Instructions

1. In a bowl, whisk together orange juice, lemon juice, honey, minced garlic, soy sauce, and olive oil until well combined.
2. Place chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour marinade over the chicken, ensuring it's fully coated. Seal tightly and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat (375°F). Remove chicken from marinade and discard marinade.
4. Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
5. While grilling, prepare glaze by simmering reserved marinade (if saved) with additional honey and soy sauce until bubbly.
6. Once cooked, drizzle glaze over grilled chicken and serve with sides like roasted veggies or rice.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 14 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 chicken breast (approximately 6 oz)
• Calories: 280
• Sugar: 9g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 9g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 36g
• Cholesterol: 110mg

Keywords: - For deeper flavor, marinate overnight. - Experiment with other citrus juices like lime or grapefruit for variety. - Add fresh herbs or jalapeños for an extra kick.