Grilled Citrus Chicken with Glaze

Grilled Citrus Chicken with Glaze offers a fresh, tangy, and sweet combination of flavors that elevate the classic grilled chicken. The marinade, made with orange, lemon, and lime juices, combines perfectly with honey and garlic to create a zesty glaze. Grilled to perfection, this dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend BBQ. Serve it with a side of veggies or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/2 cup orange juice
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 1/4 cup lime juice
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. In a small bowl, combine the orange juice, lemon juice, lime juice, honey, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
2. Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish, then pour the marinade over the chicken. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grill grate.
4. Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the remaining marinade.
5. Grill the chicken for 6-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. In a small saucepan, bring the remaining marinade to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 3-5 minutes until it slightly thickens into a glaze.
7. During the last few minutes of grilling, brush the chicken with the glaze for extra flavor.
8. Serve the grilled chicken hot, with any remaining glaze on the side for dipping.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Add spice: For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to the marinade.
• Herb infusion: You can add fresh herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or cilantro to the marinade for a more fragrant flavor profile.
• Citrus variations: Experiment with different citrus fruits, such as grapefruit or tangerine, to create unique flavor combinations.

Storage and Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the chicken in the microwave or in a skillet over low heat. If reheating on the stove, cover with a lid to retain moisture.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe? Yes, you can use bone-in chicken, but you will need to adjust the grilling time to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.
2. How long can I marinate the chicken? Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but you can marinate it for up to 2 hours for more flavor.
3. Can I use bottled citrus juice? Fresh juice is recommended for the best flavor, but you can use bottled juice in a pinch.
4. Can I grill this chicken on a stovetop grill pan? Yes, you can use a grill pan on the stovetop. Make sure to heat it well before adding the chicken.
5. Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe? You can substitute the chicken with thick slices of portobello mushrooms or tofu for a vegetarian alternative.
6. Can I freeze the marinated chicken? Yes, you can freeze the marinated chicken in a resealable bag. Thaw it in the refrigerator before grilling.
7. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked? The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) when checked with a meat thermometer.
8. Can I use this glaze for other meats? Yes, this citrus glaze works great with pork, shrimp, or even fish like salmon.
9. What sides pair well with grilled citrus chicken? Grilled vegetables, a fresh green salad, rice, or quinoa complement the citrusy flavors of the chicken.
10. Can I make the glaze ahead of time? Yes, you can make the glaze ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Conclusion

Grilled Citrus Chicken with Glaze is a flavorful and refreshing dish that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. The combination of citrus juices and honey creates a sweet and tangy marinade that’s perfect for grilling, while the glaze adds an extra layer of flavor. Whether served for a quick dinner or at a summer barbecue, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser!

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