Description
This Grilled Citrus Chicken recipe features tender, juicy boneless chicken breasts marinated in a vibrant blend of fresh citrus juices, garlic, spices, and honey. It’s perfectly grilled for a smoky char and bursting with zesty flavors, making it an easy and refreshing meal ideal for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
Marinade
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Garnish (Optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- Lemon, lime, and orange slices
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, orange juice, lemon juice, lime juice, soy sauce, minced garlic, honey, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper until well combined to create a flavorful marinade.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a large resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is fully coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, preferably 2 to 4 hours, turning occasionally to ensure even marination.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high, about 400°F (200°C). If using a gas grill, oil the grill grates well to prevent sticking. For charcoal grills, spread the coals evenly and let them develop a light coating of ash before cooking.
- Grill the Chicken: Remove chicken from the marinade, letting any excess drip off, and discard the marinade. Place the chicken breasts on the grill and cook for 5 to 7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the chicken has a nice char.
- Rest the Chicken: Take the chicken off the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring moist and tender chicken.
- Serve: Garnish the grilled citrus chicken with chopped fresh cilantro and serve with lemon, lime, and orange slices for an added burst of citrus flavor and attractive presentation.
Notes
- Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but longer (2-4 hours) will enhance the flavor.
- Make sure the grill is properly oiled before cooking to prevent sticking.
- Use a meat thermometer to confirm the chicken has reached a safe internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Leftover grilled chicken can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and used in salads or wraps.
- For a spicier variation, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the marinade.
