Zesty Citrus Grilled Chicken

🕒 Prep: 10 min
🔥 Cook: 15 min
🍽 Serves: 4
★★★★★
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Do you ever crave a dish that’s both vibrant and comforting? Meet Zesty Citrus Grilled Chicken, a delightful combination of juicy, tender chicken and a zingy marinade that’s perfect for any season. This recipe is a go-to for a quick and flavorful dinner that’ll have you coming back for seconds.

Ingredients for Zesty Citrus Grilled Chicken

The star of this dish is definitely the marinade. Let’s talk about why each component is essential:

Olive oil serves as the base, helping to lock in moisture and flavor. Orange juice, lemon juice, and lime juice provide a refreshing and tangy kick, each bringing its unique citrus note. Garlic adds a savory depth, while honey balances out the acidity with a touch of sweetness. Fresh thyme brings in a subtle earthiness, and smoked paprika adds a hint of smokiness that complements the grill perfectly. Finally, a mix of salt, black pepper, and a dash of cayenne pepper ties everything together with just the right amount of seasoning and heat.

Tips & Tricks

  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken is perfectly cooked without being dry.
  • If you don’t have a grill, a grill pan on the stovetop works just as well.
  • Marinate the chicken in the morning before work, and it'll be ready to cook by dinnertime.

Serving Suggestions

This Zesty Citrus Grilled Chicken pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or a side of quinoa. For a more hearty meal, serve it alongside garlic mashed potatoes or a warm grain salad. The citrus flavors also make it a great choice for summer picnics or barbecues.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Just adjust the cooking time as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.
What if I don’t have fresh thyme?
Dried thyme works in a pinch; just use about half the amount called for in the recipe.
Is it okay to marinate the chicken longer than overnight?
While a longer marinade can enhance flavors, more than 24 hours might start to change the chicken’s texture. Stick to 2–24 hours for best results.

Zesty Citrus Grilled Chicken Recipe Walkthrough

Start by grabbing a medium bowl — you'll mix the marinade here. Whisk together the olive oil, orange juice, lemon juice, lime juice, garlic, honey, thyme, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. This zesty blend is going to work wonders on the chicken.

Next, place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Seal the bag, then pop it in the fridge. Let it marinate for at least 2 hours; overnight is even better if you have the time.

When you're ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the excess liquid. Place the chicken on the grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side. You’re aiming for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), ensuring the chicken is cooked through.

Once done, take the chicken off the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This step is crucial as it allows the juices to redistribute, keeping your chicken tender and juicy.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick to prepare and grill — perfect for busy weeknights.
  • Packed with bright and bold citrus flavors.
  • Healthy and versatile — works for both casual family dinners and entertaining.

Ingredients

4 boneless chicken breasts
1/4 cup olive oil
1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
2 tablespoons lime juice
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon honey
1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper

Step-by-step Instructions

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together olive oil, orange juice, lemon juice, lime juice, garlic, honey, thyme, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
2. Place chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag and pour marinade over the chicken. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.
3. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the marinade.
4. Grill the chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
5. Remove from the grill and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

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