This Grilled Citrus Chicken is a perfect blend of tangy citrus and savory herbs, making it a refreshing and flavorful choice for any meal. The marinade creates a wonderful glaze, which caramelizes on the grill and locks in the juiciness of the chicken.
Whether you’re grilling outdoors or cooking indoors, this dish offers an amazing combination of fresh, vibrant flavors. The hint of honey in the glaze gives it just the right amount of sweetness, while the thyme and rosemary bring depth and fragrance. Pair it with a side of grilled vegetables or a fresh salad for a well-rounded and healthy meal.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
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4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
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2 oranges, juiced
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1 lemon, juiced
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2 tablespoons honey
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped
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1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped
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Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
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Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
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In a small bowl, whisk together the orange juice, lemon juice, honey, olive oil, garlic, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
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Brush the chicken breasts with the citrus glaze mixture and let them marinate for 10-15 minutes.
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Place the chicken on the grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and juices run clear.
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While grilling, periodically brush the chicken with more of the glaze to enhance the flavor.
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Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 14 minutes | Total Time: 29 minutes
Kcal: 270 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Grilled Citrus Chicken with Glaze: A Flavorful and Healthy Delight
If you’re looking for a fresh, flavorful, and healthy dish to serve at your next family dinner, BBQ, or casual gathering, look no further than this Grilled Citrus Chicken with Glaze recipe. This dish brings a delightful mix of tangy citrus flavors combined with the savory taste of fresh herbs. Not only is it bursting with fresh, natural flavors, but it’s also quick and easy to make, making it perfect for busy weeknights or weekend grilling sessions.
The Perfect Combination of Citrus and Herbs
At the heart of this recipe is the citrus glaze that gives the chicken an incredible burst of flavor. The combination of orange and lemon juices creates a vibrant, tangy base, while the addition of honey provides a subtle sweetness that balances out the acidity of the citrus fruits. What sets this recipe apart is the inclusion of fresh thyme and rosemary, which infuse the glaze with earthy, aromatic notes that complement the chicken perfectly.
The natural sweetness from the honey, combined with the savory depth of rosemary and thyme, creates a glaze that caramelizes on the chicken during grilling. The result is crispy, golden-brown skin with juicy, tender meat inside. Whether you’re a seasoned griller or just starting, this recipe will help you create a delicious, mouthwatering dish every time.
Why Grilled Chicken?
Grilled chicken is a go-to dish for many home cooks, and for good reason. It’s versatile, quick, and works well with a wide variety of seasonings and marinades. Chicken breasts, specifically, are lean cuts of meat, making them an excellent choice for anyone looking for a high-protein, lower-fat meal. Not only is grilled chicken a healthy choice, but it’s also incredibly satisfying.
When grilling chicken, the process allows for the natural flavors of the meat to shine through while the cooking method ensures that the chicken remains juicy and tender. The grill marks that form on the chicken while it cooks add a subtle smokiness, enhancing the overall flavor profile of the dish.
A Simple Yet Flavorful Glaze
The glaze used in this Grilled Citrus Chicken recipe is what truly makes this dish stand out. It’s simple to prepare yet packs a punch in terms of flavor. By combining fresh orange and lemon juices with honey, olive oil, garlic, and a few herbs, you create a marinade that is rich, aromatic, and full of depth. The citrus juices add a zesty tang, while the honey helps to balance out the acidity with a touch of sweetness.
The garlic, thyme, and rosemary bring an earthy and fragrant element that works wonders with the grilled chicken. The garlic offers a savory, slightly pungent taste, while the herbs lend a refreshing and aromatic profile that elevates the dish.
Marinating the chicken in this citrus glaze before grilling helps infuse the meat with all of these delightful flavors. As the chicken cooks on the grill, the glaze caramelizes and forms a beautiful crust on the chicken, giving it that perfect balance of crispy and tender.
The Health Benefits of Citrus and Herbs
In addition to being delicious, this Grilled Citrus Chicken is also packed with nutritional benefits. Citrus fruits, such as oranges and lemons, are rich in vitamin C, an essential nutrient that helps boost your immune system and promote healthy skin. Vitamin C also plays a crucial role in collagen formation, which is important for wound healing and overall tissue repair.
Herbs like thyme and rosemary aren’t just for flavor, they also offer health benefits. Thyme contains vitamins A and C, which support immune function and skin health, while rosemary is packed with antioxidants that can help fight inflammation and improve digestion. The combination of citrus and herbs in this recipe makes the dish not only flavorful but also nourishing.
Serving Suggestions for Grilled Citrus Chicken
Grilled Citrus Chicken with Glaze pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes, making it a versatile meal for any occasion. Here are a few suggestions to complete your meal:
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Grilled Vegetables: Pair the chicken with a medley of grilled vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus. The smoky flavor from the grill complements the citrusy chicken beautifully, creating a balanced and colorful plate.
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Rice Pilaf: A light and fragrant rice pilaf made with herbs and lemon would be a perfect side dish to absorb the juicy citrus glaze from the chicken. Add some slivered almonds or pine nuts for extra texture and flavor.
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Fresh Salad: A crisp, refreshing salad made with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a tangy vinaigrette will offer a cool contrast to the warm, flavorful chicken. You could even toss in some fresh citrus slices to tie in with the chicken’s flavors.
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Sweet Potatoes: Roasted or grilled sweet potatoes would also make a wonderful side dish, offering a hint of sweetness that complements the honey in the glaze while providing a satisfying starchy element to the meal.
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Grilled Corn on the Cob: For a classic BBQ vibe, serve your Grilled Citrus Chicken with charred corn on the cob. A dash of lime juice and a sprinkle of chili powder on the corn can elevate the dish even further.
Grilled Citrus Chicken for Any Occasion
Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ, preparing a healthy weeknight dinner, or looking for a dish that will impress your guests, this Grilled Citrus Chicken with Glaze is an excellent choice. It’s simple enough for everyday cooking yet elegant enough for special occasions. The bright and vibrant citrus glaze brings a unique and fresh twist to the traditional grilled chicken, and it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Grilled Citrus Chicken with Glaze is a must-try recipe for anyone who loves juicy, flavorful chicken with a refreshing twist. The combination of citrus fruits, honey, garlic, and fresh herbs makes for a deliciously balanced glaze that coats the chicken perfectly. This dish is a great option for those looking for a healthy, quick, and flavorful meal. Whether you’re grilling indoors or outdoors, the zesty and savory flavors will make your taste buds sing. So, fire up the grill, marinate the chicken, and enjoy a tasty and satisfying meal that is sure to become a staple in your cooking repertoire.
Feel free to experiment with the glaze and try different combinations of citrus fruits or herbs based on what you have on hand. This Grilled Citrus Chicken with Glaze is incredibly versatile and can be adapted to suit your personal taste preferences. Whether you enjoy it with a side of grilled vegetables, a refreshing salad, or some hearty rice pilaf, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser every time. Happy grilling!