Grilled Citrus Chicken With Glaze

Enjoy the burst of flavors in every bite with this Grilled Citrus Chicken With Glaze! This dish is perfect for summer barbecues or cozy family dinners. The combination of fresh citrus juices and a delightful glaze makes it a standout choice for any occasion. Not only does it impress your guests, but it also offers a healthy and juicy option that everyone will love.

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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
• Citrus Glaze
• How to Make Grilled Citrus Chicken With Glaze
• Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
• Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
• Step 3: Grill the Chicken
• Step 4: Make the Glaze (Optional)
• Step 5: Serve
• How to Serve Grilled Citrus Chicken With Glaze
• With Fresh Salads
• With Grains
• With Vegetables
• With Dips and Sauces
• How to Perfect Grilled Citrus Chicken With Glaze
• Best Side Dishes for Grilled Citrus Chicken With Glaze
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Grilled Citrus Chicken With Glaze
• Reheating Grilled Citrus Chicken With Glaze
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I use other citrus fruits for Grilled Citrus Chicken With Glaze?
• How do I know when my Grilled Citrus Chicken With Glaze is done?
• What sides pair well with Grilled Citrus Chicken With Glaze?
• Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
• What is the best way to customize Grilled Citrus Chicken With Glaze?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Packed with Flavor: The marinade combines citrus juices and zests, creating a vibrant taste that elevates grilled chicken.
• Easy to Prepare: With minimal prep time and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for busy cooks.
• Versatile Dish: Pair it with salads, rice, or veggies for a complete meal suitable for any gathering.
• Healthy Option: Lean chicken breasts marinated in fresh ingredients make this a nutritious choice.
• Impressive Presentation: The glaze adds a shiny finish, making your dish look as good as it tastes.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools. These will make your experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Essential for achieving that perfect charred flavor on the chicken.
• Mixing bowls: Helps in combining ingredients thoroughly without mess.
• Whisk: Ensures an even blend of marinade ingredients for consistent flavor.
• Meat thermometer: Guarantees perfectly cooked chicken every time, preventing any risk of undercooking.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 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

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 fresh fruit (orange, lemon, lime).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the juices and zests with garlic, shallot, olive oil, brown sugar, salt, pepper, rosemary, parsley, and red pepper flakes. Stir well until mixed.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

1. Lightly pound or butterfly the chicken breasts to ensure even cooking.
2. Place the chicken in half of the prepared marinade. Reserve the other half for later use as glaze.
3. Cover and marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to four hours in the refrigerator.

Step 3: Grill the Chicken

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Brush grates with oil to prevent sticking.
2. Remove chicken from marinade and place it on the grill.
3. Grill each side for about 6–7 minutes until it reaches an internal temperature of 165˚F in its thickest part.
4. In the last minute or two of grilling, brush the reserved marinade glaze over the chicken for added flavor.

Step 4: Make the Glaze (Optional)

1. In a saucepan, combine half of the reserved citrus marinade with honey.
2. Stir well and bring to a low simmer over low heat.
3. Simmer for about 5–6 minutes until thickened enough to coat a spoon.

Step 5: Serve

1. Let grilled chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing.
2. Brush additional glaze on top if desired before serving.

This delicious Grilled Citrus Chicken With Glaze is sure to be a hit at your next gathering! Enjoy its refreshing flavors while savoring quality time with friends and family.

How to Serve Grilled Citrus Chicken With Glaze

Grilled Citrus Chicken with Glaze is a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with various sides and garnishes. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

With Fresh Salads

• Citrus Spinach Salad: Toss spinach with segments of orange and grapefruit, topped with a light vinaigrette.
• Quinoa Salad: A refreshing mix of quinoa, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a lemon dressing complements the chicken’s flavors.

With Grains

• Wild Rice Pilaf: The nutty flavor of wild rice enhances the citrus notes in the chicken.
• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make for a comforting side.

With Vegetables

• Grilled Asparagus: Lightly charred asparagus drizzled with olive oil adds a smoky touch.
• Roasted Broccoli: Seasoned roasted broccoli brings out the natural sweetness and crunch.

With Dips and Sauces

• Avocado Salsa: A creamy avocado salsa adds richness and balances the citrus acidity.
• Tzatziki Sauce: This refreshing yogurt-based sauce provides a cooling contrast to the 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, follow these essential tips.

• Use fresh citrus: Fresh juice and zest significantly enhance flavor compared to bottled alternatives.
• Marinate adequately: Aim for at least 30 minutes in the marinade for optimal flavor absorption.
• Preheat the grill: Proper preheating ensures even cooking and prevents sticking.
• Monitor internal temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165˚F for safe consumption.
• Let it rest: Allowing the chicken to rest after grilling helps retain moisture before slicing.
• Customize the glaze: Feel free to adjust honey levels in the glaze according to your sweetness preference.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Citrus Chicken With Glaze

Pairing side dishes with your Grilled Citrus Chicken can enhance your meal experience. Here’s a selection of delicious options.

1. Coleslaw: This crunchy side adds texture and balances out the flavors of the chicken.
2. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn grilled alongside your chicken makes for a classic summer dish.
3. Baked Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness complements the citrus glaze wonderfully.
4. Caesar Salad: The richness of Caesar dressing pairs nicely with grilled chicken, adding depth to your plate.
5. Mediterranean Couscous: Fluffy couscous mixed with olives, feta, and herbs provides a vibrant touch.
6. Zucchini Noodles: Lightly sautéed zucchini noodles offer a healthy alternative that won’t overshadow the main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Marinating chicken can be a simple task, but there are common pitfalls to avoid for the best results. Here are some mistakes to keep in mind:

• Skipping the Marinade Time: Not marinating the chicken long enough can lead to bland flavor. Aim for at least 30 minutes, but up to four hours is best.
• Using High Heat Too Soon: Starting the grill too hot can burn the outside while leaving the inside undercooked. Preheat to medium-high for even cooking.
• Not Resting the Chicken: Cutting into chicken immediately after grilling releases juices. Let it rest for a few minutes to retain moisture and flavor.
• Overcomplicating the Glaze: Adding too many ingredients can mask the citrus flavors. Stick with simple components like honey and reserved marinade for balance.
• Ignoring Temperature Checks: Cooking without checking internal temperature can result in unsafe or overcooked chicken. Always use a thermometer to ensure it reaches 165˚F.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store grilled citrus chicken in an airtight container.
• It can last up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Grilled Citrus Chicken With Glaze

• Wrap chicken tightly in plastic wrap or foil before placing it in a freezer-safe container.
• It will keep well for up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Grilled Citrus Chicken With Glaze

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350˚F, place chicken in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate. Cover with a damp paper towel and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a splash of water or broth, then add chicken. Cover and heat for about 5-7 minutes until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other citrus fruits for Grilled Citrus Chicken With Glaze?

Yes! You can experiment with different citrus fruits like grapefruit or tangerines for unique flavors.

How do I know when my Grilled Citrus Chicken With Glaze is done?

Use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165˚F at the thickest part of the chicken.

What sides pair well with Grilled Citrus Chicken With Glaze?

Fresh salads, grilled vegetables, or rice pilaf complement this dish wonderfully.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! Marinate the chicken ahead of time and grill it just before serving to maintain freshness.

What is the best way to customize Grilled Citrus Chicken With Glaze?

Feel free to adjust spices or add herbs like thyme or cilantro for different flavor profiles.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Citrus Chicken with Glaze is not only delicious but also versatile, making it perfect for summer barbecues or family dinners. You can easily customize this recipe by experimenting with different citrus fruits or adding your favorite herbs. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe; it’s sure to impress your guests!