Grilled Citrus Chicken With Glaze

The Grilled Citrus Chicken With Glaze is a mouthwatering dish that combines the vibrant flavors of fresh citrus with tender, juicy chicken. This recipe is perfect for summer barbecues, family dinners, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests with something special. The marinade infuses the chicken with zesty notes, while the glaze adds a delightful sweetness that makes every bite irresistible.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Chicken Marinade:
• For the Citrus Glaze:
• How to Make Grilled Citrus Chicken With Glaze
• Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
• Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
• Step 3: Preheat Your Grill
• Step 4: Grill the Chicken
• Step 5: Let It Rest
• Step 6: Prepare the Citrus Glaze (Optional)
• How to Serve Grilled Citrus Chicken With Glaze
• With Fresh Salads
• Accompanied by Rice or Quinoa
• Served with Grilled Vegetables
• Paired with Dipping Sauces
• How to Perfect Grilled Citrus Chicken With Glaze
• Best Side Dishes for Grilled Citrus Chicken With Glaze
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Grilled Citrus Chicken With Glaze
• Reheating Grilled Citrus Chicken With Glaze
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I use other citrus fruits?
• How long can I marinate the chicken?
• Can I make this dish ahead of time?
• What sides pair well with Grilled Citrus Chicken With Glaze?
• Is there a vegetarian option?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have dinner on the table in no time.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of orange, lemon, and lime creates a refreshing taste that elevates your chicken.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for summer grilling but delicious enough for year-round enjoyment.
• Healthy Option: Packed with fresh ingredients, this dish makes for a nutritious meal choice.
• Impressive Presentation: The vibrant colors and glossy glaze make this chicken as beautiful as it is tasty.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather your tools to ensure a smooth preparation process. Having everything ready will help you enjoy the cooking experience without any interruptions.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Meat thermometer

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Essential for achieving that perfect char and smoky flavor on your chicken.
• Mixing bowl: A spacious bowl allows you to mix all marinade ingredients thoroughly.
• Meat thermometer: Ensures your chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature while remaining juicy.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade:

• 1 ¾ lb chicken breasts
• 1 cup fresh orange juice
• 1 tbsp orange zest
• 1 large lemon juice + zest
• 2 large limes juice + zest
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 shallots, minced
• ½ cup olive oil
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp pepper
• 1 tbsp fresh rosemary
• 1 tbsp dried parsley
• 1 tsp red pepper flakes

For the Citrus Glaze:

• ½ of the marinade
• 2 tbsp honey

How to Make Grilled Citrus Chicken With Glaze

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

1. Zest and juice the oranges, lemons, and limes into a mixing bowl.
2. Add the minced garlic, shallots, olive oil, brown sugar, salt, pepper, rosemary, parsley, and red pepper flakes.
3. Stir well until all ingredients are combined.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

1. Lightly pound or butterfly the chicken breasts to ensure even thickness.
2. Place the chicken into HALF of the marinade mixture.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to four hours. Avoid marinating longer than four hours to prevent breakdown from acidity.

Step 3: Preheat Your Grill

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. Brush the grill grates with some oil to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Grill the Chicken

1. Place marinated chicken on the grill.
2. Cook each side for 6-7 minutes until it reaches an internal temperature of 165˚F in the thickest part.
3. In the last minute or two of grilling, brush on some citrus glaze if desired.

Step 5: Let It Rest

1. Remove chicken from grill and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
2. Serve warm with additional glaze if desired.

Step 6: Prepare the Citrus Glaze (Optional)

1. In a saucepan over low heat, combine half of the reserved marinade with honey.
2. Stir well and bring to a low simmer.
3. Simmer for 5-6 minutes until thickened; let cool before brushing on grilled chicken.

Enjoy this delicious Grilled Citrus Chicken With Glaze, perfect for impressing your family and friends!

How to Serve Grilled Citrus Chicken With Glaze

Grilled Citrus Chicken with Glaze is a dish that shines on any plate. Its vibrant flavors and juicy texture make it a versatile centerpiece for various meals. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

With Fresh Salads

• Mixed Greens Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a balsamic vinaigrette pairs well with the tangy chicken.
• Citrus Avocado Salad: Combine sliced avocado, orange segments, and red onion for a refreshing complement to the chicken.

Accompanied by Rice or Quinoa

• Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice with fresh cilantro and lime juice enhances the citrus notes of the chicken.
• Herbed Quinoa: Cooked quinoa tossed with herbs adds a nutty flavor that balances the sweetness of the glaze.

Served with Grilled Vegetables

• Zucchini and Bell Peppers: Grilled zucchini and bell peppers bring a smoky flavor that complements the citrus glaze beautifully.
• Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn grilled until charred adds a delightful crunch alongside the juicy chicken.

Paired with Dipping Sauces

• Spicy Aioli: A creamy aioli with a hint of spice offers another layer of flavor when dipping pieces of chicken.
• Mango Salsa: Fresh mango salsa provides a sweet and tangy contrast to the savory grilled chicken.

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How to Perfect Grilled Citrus Chicken With Glaze

To ensure your Grilled Citrus Chicken with Glaze turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Marinate Properly: Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes helps infuse flavors deeply.
• Use a Thermometer: Check that the internal temperature reaches 165˚F to ensure safe cooking without drying out.
• Preheat Your Grill: A well-heated grill ensures those beautiful grill marks and locks in moisture for juicy chicken.
• Rest Before Slicing: Letting the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling allows juices to redistribute, keeping it tender.
• Brush On Glaze Wisely: Apply the glaze during the last couple of minutes on the grill to prevent burning while adding flavor.
• Experiment with Fruits: Try different citrus fruits like grapefruit or tangerines in your marinade for unique flavor profiles.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Citrus Chicken With Glaze

Pairing side dishes with your Grilled Citrus Chicken can elevate your meal. Here are some fantastic options that complement its bright flavors.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make for a comforting side that balances acidity.
2. Coleslaw: A crunchy slaw made from cabbage and carrots dressed in citrus vinaigrette enhances freshness.
3. Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus drizzled with olive oil and roasted brings an earthy note to your plate.
4. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, basil, and tomatoes drizzled with balsamic reduction create a delicious contrast.
5. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries add sweetness that pairs wonderfully with grilled meats.
6. Corn Salad: A vibrant salad made from fresh corn, peppers, and lime dressing offers a refreshing crunch.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make your cooking experience more enjoyable and your dish more delicious. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the Marinade Time: Marinating the chicken is crucial for flavor. Don’t rush this step; allow at least 30 minutes to absorb those citrus flavors.

• Not Using a Meat Thermometer: To ensure safety, always check that your chicken reaches 165˚F internally. This prevents undercooking and keeps your dish safe to eat.

• Grilling on Too High Heat: While high heat can sear meat, it may burn the outside before cooking the inside. Aim for medium-high heat for even cooking.

• Ignoring Rest Time: Letting the chicken rest after grilling allows juices to redistribute. Skipping this step could lead to dry meat.

• Overcomplicating the Glaze: If you find making a glaze too complex, simply brush the chicken with the marinade instead. It’s easier and still tasty.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store grilled chicken in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 4 days in the refrigerator.
• Make sure it’s cooled down before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing Grilled Citrus Chicken With Glaze

• Wrap chicken tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place it in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Grilled Citrus Chicken With Glaze

• Oven: Preheat to 350˚F and heat covered for about 20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in short bursts until warm (about 1-2 minutes).
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Grilled Citrus Chicken With Glaze:

Can I use other citrus fruits?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with grapefruit or tangerine juice for different flavor profiles.

How long can I marinate the chicken?

You can marinate the chicken for up to four hours. Beyond that, the acid may break down the meat too much.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can marinate and grill the chicken a day ahead. Just reheat when ready to serve.

What sides pair well with Grilled Citrus Chicken With Glaze?

This dish pairs wonderfully with salads, grilled vegetables, or rice dishes for a complete meal.

Is there a vegetarian option?

You can substitute chicken with firm tofu or portobello mushrooms using the same marinade for a delicious vegetarian alternative.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Citrus Chicken With Glaze is not only full of flavor but also incredibly versatile. Perfect for summer barbecues or cozy family dinners, this recipe invites customization based on your preferred citrus fruits and herbs. Give it a try and delight in its juicy goodness!