Grilled Citrus Garlic Chicken

Love the juicy and flavorful Grilled Citrus Garlic Chicken that bursts with fresh ingredients! This dish is perfect for summer barbecues, family gatherings, or a simple weeknight dinner. The vibrant marinade not only enhances the chicken’s taste but also makes it tender and succulent. Whether served hot from the grill or chilled in a salad, this recipe is sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of citrus and garlic creates a marinade that’s both tangy and savory.
• Easy Preparation: With minimal prep time and simple ingredients, you can whip this up in no time.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it hot off the grill or use leftovers in salads, wraps, or sandwiches.
• Healthy Choice: This dish is low in fat and high in protein, making it a nutritious option for any meal.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into cooking, gather your tools to make the process seamless. Having the right equipment on hand ensures a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Large zip bag
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Basting brush

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Essential for achieving those perfect char marks and smoky flavor.
• Large zip bag: Great for marinating chicken evenly without mess.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures precise ingredient amounts for balanced flavors.

Ingredients

Love this marinade that’s plump full of fresh ingredients!

For the Marinade

• ¾ cup freshly squeezed orange juice
• ½ cup red apple vinegar
• ½ cup minced green onions (white & green parts)
• ¼ cup honey
• 6 medium garlic cloves (minced)
• 2 tablespoons grated orange zest
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon hot red pepper flakes

For the Chicken

• 4 large (about 1½ pounds) boneless skinless chicken breasts

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

this recipe

How to Make Grilled Citrus Garlic Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

Combine all ingredients (except chicken) in a large zip bag. Blend well until fully mixed.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

1. Add the chicken breasts to the marinade bag.
2. Seal the bag tightly, removing as much air as possible.
3. Refrigerate for 2 to 4 hours. If you prefer longer marination, wait to add salt until just before cooking.

Step 3: Preheat the Grill

Heat your grill to medium-high heat while waiting for the chicken to marinate.

Step 4: Grill the Chicken

1. Remove chicken from marinade, letting excess drip off.
2. Place chicken on the grill lid closed.
3. Grill for about 15 to 20 minutes, turning often until cooked through. Cooking time may vary based on size and heat.

Step 5: Serve

Serve hot off the grill or refrigerate to be enjoyed cold later! Garnish with fresh parsley before serving if desired.

How to Serve Grilled Citrus Garlic Chicken

Grilled Citrus Garlic Chicken is a versatile dish that pairs well with various sides and garnishes. Here are some serving suggestions that will enhance your meal and delight your guests.

Fresh Salad

• A light, crisp salad with mixed greens balances the savory flavors of the chicken. Consider adding cherry tomatoes and cucumbers for extra freshness.

Grilled Vegetables

• Charred vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus add a smoky flavor that complements the grilled chicken beautifully.

Rice Pilaf

• Serve the chicken over a fluffy rice pilaf seasoned with herbs. This adds a hearty touch to your meal while soaking up the marinade’s flavors.

Avocado Salsa

• A refreshing avocado salsa made with diced avocados, tomatoes, and lime juice adds creaminess and zest to each bite of chicken.

Sliced Citrus

• Garnishing with fresh orange or lime slices brightens the dish visually and enhances its citrus notes.

Creamy Coleslaw

• A tangy coleslaw provides a crunchy contrast to the tender chicken, making every mouthful enjoyable.

How to Perfect Grilled Citrus Garlic Chicken

To make sure your Grilled Citrus Garlic Chicken turns out perfect every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic, citrus juices, and herbs will enhance the flavor of your marinade significantly.
• Marinate longer: For deeper flavor infusion, consider marinating the chicken overnight. Just remember to hold off on adding salt until just before grilling.
• Preheat your grill: Ensure your grill is properly preheated to medium-high heat for even cooking and those beautiful grill marks.
• Check doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
• Let it rest: After grilling, allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This helps retain moisture for a juicier result.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust spice levels or add other herbs like thyme or rosemary for added depth in flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Citrus Garlic Chicken

Pairing sides with Grilled Citrus Garlic Chicken can take your meal from good to great. Here are some delicious options that complement this flavorful main course.

1. Quinoa Salad
   A protein-packed quinoa salad mixed with black beans, corn, and cilantro provides a nutritious side that’s also filling.
2. Sweet Potato Wedges
   Roasted sweet potato wedges tossed in olive oil and seasoning offer a sweet contrast to the savory chicken.
3. Garlic Bread
   Warm garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any juices from the grilled chicken while adding an irresistible crunch.
4. Corn on the Cob
   Grilled corn brushed with butter and sprinkled with cheese makes for a classic summer side that everyone loves.
5. Couscous
   Fluffy couscous flavored with lemon zest is light yet satisfying, providing a lovely base for the chicken.
6. Roasted Brussels Sprouts
   Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts seasoned with balsamic glaze lend a slightly bitter note that balances nicely with the sweetness of the marinade.
7. Mashed Potatoes
   Creamy mashed potatoes can provide comfort alongside your flavorful grilled chicken while being incredibly satisfying.
8. Fruit Salad
   A refreshing fruit salad made from seasonal fruits adds brightness and complements the citrus notes of the dish perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Marinating chicken can be simple, but there are some common errors that can affect your Grilled Citrus Garlic Chicken.

• Not marinating long enough: Short marination times may not allow the flavors to penetrate the chicken. Aim for at least 2 hours, or even longer for a deeper flavor.
• Using old garlic: Fresh garlic has a stronger flavor and aroma than old cloves. Always choose fresh garlic to enhance your marinade.
• Skipping the rest period: After grilling, let the chicken rest for a few minutes. This helps retain moisture and makes it juicier when you cut into it.
• Overcrowding the grill: Placing too many pieces of chicken on the grill can lower the temperature and lead to uneven cooking. Grill the chicken in batches if necessary.
• Ignoring internal temperature: Always check that your chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). This ensures it’s safe to eat and perfectly cooked.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store grilled citrus garlic chicken in an airtight container.
• It will last for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Grilled Citrus Garlic Chicken

• Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Frozen grilled chicken can be stored for up to 4 months.

Reheating Grilled Citrus Garlic Chicken

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place chicken on a baking sheet, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate, cover, and heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of water or broth, then reheat chicken until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I enhance the flavor of my Grilled Citrus Garlic Chicken?

To enhance the flavor, consider adding herbs like rosemary or thyme to your marinade. You can also experiment with different citrus juices.

Can I use other cuts of chicken for this recipe?

Yes! While boneless skinless chicken breasts are recommended, thighs or drumsticks can also work well with this marinade.

What should I serve with Grilled Citrus Garlic Chicken?

This dish pairs beautifully with grilled vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad. The versatility allows you to mix and match sides based on personal preference.

Can I make the marinade ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the marinade a day in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to add the chicken.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Citrus Garlic Chicken is a delightful dish that bursts with flavor from its vibrant marinade. It’s perfect for summer barbecues or weeknight dinners. Feel free to customize it with your favorite herbs or spices. Give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!

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Grilled Citrus Garlic Chicken

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• Author: Sofia
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Grilled Citrus Garlic Chicken is a tantalizing dish that combines the zesty flavors of fresh citrus and savory garlic, making it an ideal choice for summer barbecues, family gatherings, or quick weeknight meals. This juicy chicken is marinated to perfection, resulting in tender and flavorful meat that can be enjoyed hot off the grill or chilled in salads. With its vibrant marinade and versatile serving options, this recipe is not only delicious but also healthy, offering a low-fat and high-protein meal that satisfies everyone at the table.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• ¾ cup freshly squeezed orange juice
• ½ cup red apple vinegar
• ½ cup minced green onions
• ¼ cup honey
• 6 medium garlic cloves (minced)
• 2 tablespoons grated orange zest
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon hot red pepper flakes
• 4 large boneless skinless chicken breasts

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Instructions

1. In a large zip bag, combine orange juice, red apple vinegar, green onions, honey, garlic, orange zest, Dijon mustard, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Mix well.
2. Add chicken breasts to the marinade bag. Seal tightly and refrigerate for 2 to 4 hours (or overnight for deeper flavor).
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
4. Remove chicken from marinade and place on grill. Cook for 15 to 20 minutes, flipping frequently until fully cooked.
5. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 chicken breast (170g)
• Calories: 230
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 300mg
• Fat: 5g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: Use fresh ingredients for maximum flavor impact. Marinating overnight deepens the flavors; just add salt right before grilling. Ensure your grill is preheated for even cooking and perfect char marks.