If you’re hunting for a show-stopping dinner that practically glows with sunshine, look no further than Grilled Citrus Chicken with Glaze. This dish is a symphony of zesty oranges, limes, and lemons, all working together to infuse juicy chicken breasts with tangy, sweet, and savory goodness. The simple citrus marinade transforms everyday chicken into something truly special, while the glossy glaze adds a little elegant flair that dazzles whether you’re grilling for a backyard crowd or just spicing up a family weeknight. There’s no easier way to celebrate those bright, bold flavors of summer, and you’ll love how effortless and impressive this classic becomes!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient for Grilled Citrus Chicken with Glaze has a meaningful role—giving you crisp, moist chicken with layer after layer of citrusy flavor. Everything here is easy to find, but every drop adds color, zing, or irresistible tenderness to your plate.
- Chicken breasts: Boneless, skinless, and ready to be a canvas for all the citrus magic!
- Orange juice: Delivers sweetness and the core of our refreshing glaze—freshly squeezed is a bonus.
- Lime juice: Adds a punchy brightness that wakes up the entire chicken.
- Lemon juice: Provides tangy balance and makes the marinade sing.
- Olive oil: Helps keep the chicken moist on the grill and brings everything together.
- Honey: Lends subtle sweetness and caramelization, resulting in that perfect glossy finish.
- Garlic: Adds depth and savory undertones for complexity in every bite.
- Orange zest: Intensifies the citrus aroma and flavor, making the dish shine.
- Lime zest: A pop of fragrant, bright flavor that you can’t get from juice alone.
- Dijon mustard: Rounds out the glaze with a hint of tang and just enough sharpness.
- Salt: Essential to amplify all those beautiful flavors.
- Black pepper: Adds a gentle heat and depth.
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional): For those who love a slight kick—totally customizable!
- Fresh parsley or cilantro (optional): Ideal for a vibrant garnish and herby freshness at the finish.
How to Make Grilled Citrus Chicken with Glaze
Step 1: Make the Citrus Marinade
The foundation of Grilled Citrus Chicken with Glaze starts with an ultra-flavorful marinade. In a small bowl, whisk together orange juice, lime juice, lemon juice, olive oil, honey, minced garlic, orange and lime zest, Dijon mustard, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you want a little warmth. Take a moment to inhale that bright, tangy aroma! Once combined, set aside a quarter cup of this mixture—this becomes your glaze magic later on.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Place your chicken breasts in a roomy zip-top bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade (except the reserved glaze) over the chicken, ensuring every nook and cranny is coated. Pop it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, or let it lounge up to 4 hours for maximum flavor infusion. Don’t forget: a longer marinating time equals richer citrus notes and succulent texture!
Step 3: Prepare the Grill
Ready to grill? Preheat to medium-high so your chicken gets those gorgeous grill marks. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking (a quick rub with an oiled paper towel does wonders). Let the grill get nice and hot before the chicken hits the grates to lock in juices and achieve that crave-worthy caramelization.
Step 4: Grill the Chicken
Remove your chicken from the marinade and shake off excess before placing them on the grill. Grill for 5 to 6 minutes on each side, turning just once for those beautiful sear lines. Experience those citrus and honey scents wafting through the air—it’s a surefire way to build anticipation! The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and the outside is beautifully caramelized.
Step 5: Glaze and Finish
During the last two minutes of grilling, brush the reserved glaze over each chicken breast. This step gives your Grilled Citrus Chicken with Glaze a mouthwatering glossy sheen and an extra boost of tangy-sweet complexity. After grilling, let the chicken rest for five minutes—this keeps it juicy and lets the flavors really meld.
How to Serve Grilled Citrus Chicken with Glaze
Garnishes
Finish with a flourish by showering your Grilled Citrus Chicken with Glaze with fresh parsley or cilantro. Not only do they provide a burst of color, but their subtle, herbal notes perfectly complement the citrusy flavors. You can also add a sprinkle of extra citrus zest if you want to highlight those bright tones even more.
Side Dishes
Pairing this chicken is a breeze. It’s fantastic alongside fluffy rice, vibrant grilled veggies, or even a cool, creamy slaw. If you’re hosting, try serving with couscous, roasted potatoes, or a crisp summer salad peppered with berries. The citrus glaze plays beautifully with sweet, earthy, and fresh sides alike.
Creative Ways to Present
Slice the Grilled Citrus Chicken with Glaze on a platter over a colorful bed of greens for a dinner party stunner, or use it to top tacos and grain bowls for a fun twist. For finger foods, cube the chicken and skewer it for gorgeous summer kabobs!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Grilled Citrus Chicken with Glaze keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to let the chicken cool before storing to preserve its flavor and juicy texture.
Freezing
To freeze, wrap individual chicken breasts tightly in plastic wrap and then place in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll maintain their taste and moisture for up to two months—just be sure to thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating to ensure best results.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the chicken on the stovetop over low heat, or cover and microwave in short bursts, to avoid drying it out. For an extra burst of freshness, brush with a little extra citrus juice or glaze before serving.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs or drumsticks instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs and drumsticks are both delicious with the Grilled Citrus Chicken with Glaze recipe. You may need to adjust your grilling time as these cuts can take a few extra minutes to cook through, but the result is just as juicy and flavorful.
What if I don’t have a grill?
No worries at all. You can bake the marinated chicken at 400°F for about 20 to 25 minutes, or until fully cooked. You’ll still get that lively citrus flavor and juicy texture, though you might miss the smoky char from grilling.
Can I marinate the chicken overnight?
Definitely! In fact, marinating overnight allows the citrus, honey, and garlic flavors to soak in even deeper, making your Grilled Citrus Chicken with Glaze extra tender and bursting with brightness.
How can I make the dish spicier?
Just bump up the amount of crushed red pepper flakes, or add a dash of hot sauce to the marinade. The balance of sweet, tangy, and spice is totally customizable based on your heat preference.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?
Grilled Citrus Chicken with Glaze is perfect for meal prep! Make a batch on Sunday and enjoy citrusy, tender chicken for salads, wraps, or lunches all week long. It packs well and keeps its flavor beautifully.
Final Thoughts
Give Grilled Citrus Chicken with Glaze a spot on your summer (or anytime!) dinner rotation—you won’t regret it. With its dazzling citrus glaze and simple fresh ingredients, it’s a dish that feels like a celebration every time. Fire up the grill, and let these vibrant, sunny flavors brighten your table!
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Grilled Citrus Chicken with Glaze Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 52 minutes (including minimum marinating time)
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Grilled Citrus Chicken with Glaze recipe is a perfect combination of tangy citrus flavors and savory grilled chicken. The marinade infuses the chicken with a bright, zesty taste, while the glaze adds a sticky sweetness that caramelizes beautifully on the grill. It’s a simple yet flavorful dish that’s ideal for summer cookouts or quick weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Marinade:
- 1/4 cup orange juice
- 1/4 cup lime juice
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon orange zest
- 1 teaspoon lime zest
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Additional Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- In a small bowl, whisk together the orange juice, lime juice, lemon juice, olive oil, honey, garlic, citrus zests, Dijon mustard, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
- Reserve 1/4 cup of the mixture to use as a glaze.
- Place chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish and pour the remaining marinade over them.
- Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours.
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates.
- Remove chicken from marinade and grill for 5–6 minutes per side or until fully cooked and internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- During the last 2 minutes of grilling, brush the reserved glaze over the chicken.
- Remove from the grill and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Notes
- For extra flavor, marinate overnight.
- This recipe works well with chicken thighs or drumsticks too.
- If grilling isn’t an option, the chicken can be baked at 400°F for 20–25 minutes.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
