This Easy Citrus Dijon Grilled Chicken is a burst of flavor! With zesty lemon, sweet orange, and a hint of mustard, it’s perfect for a light meal that feels fancy.
Grilling this chicken is super easy and quick. I love how it impresses my friends without needing much effort. Pair it with a salad for a refreshing dinner! 🍗🍊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are a great choice for this recipe due to their quick cooking and juiciness. You can substitute with thighs for more flavor and tenderness, or try tofu for a vegetarian option.
Olive Oil: This adds richness to the marinade. If you’re out, avocado oil or canola oil works well too. Just avoid oils with strong flavors that might overpower the dish.
Dijon Mustard: The zesty flavor of Dijon is key here. If you’re looking for a milder taste, you can use yellow mustard, or for a twist, try whole grain mustard for added texture.
Citrus Juices: Fresh lemon and orange juice brighten the dish. If fresh juice isn’t available, you can use bottled juice, but fresh really makes a difference. Lime juice also works well if you want to switch it up!
Honey: It balances the acidity, but if you’re avoiding sugar, consider using maple syrup or agave as a substitute. You could even skip it if you’re watching your sugar intake!
How Do I Marinate Chicken for Maximum Flavor?
Marinating chicken is essential for infusing flavor. Here’s how to get it right:
- Use a sealable bag or dish to coat the chicken evenly with the marinade.
- Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, but 1-2 hours is ideal for deeper flavor.
- Always discard the marinade after use and never reuse it to avoid contamination.
- If you’re short on time, a quick 15-minute marinade can still provide some flavor, but it’s not as effective.
Letting the chicken rest before grilling is a game-changer too; it keeps it juicy!
Easy Citrus Dijon Grilled Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
- 2 tablespoons fresh orange juice (about 1 orange)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano or 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped
- Lemon, lime, and orange slices (for serving and garnish)
- Fresh herbs (such as thyme or oregano) for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 10 minutes of prep time, plus at least 30 minutes to marinate the chicken (1-2 hours is best). Cooking on the grill will take around 12-16 minutes. Overall, you’ll be enjoying this delicious meal in about an hour and a half!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, orange juice, minced garlic, honey, salt, pepper, and oregano until well combined. This zesty mix will add so much flavor to the chicken!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Place the chicken breasts in a large zip-top bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece is well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. For maximum flavor, aim for 1-2 hours if you have the time.
3. Preheat the Grill:
While the chicken is marinating, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. When it’s hot, lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking. This helps get those beautiful grill marks!
4. Grill the Chicken:
Remove the chicken from the marinade and shake off any excess. Discard the remaining marinade. Place the chicken breasts on the grill and cook for about 6-8 minutes per side. Keep an eye out for that internal temperature to reach 165°F (74°C) to ensure they are perfectly cooked and juicy.
5. Rest and Serve:
Once grilled, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the chicken even more tender. Serve the grilled chicken topped with fresh lemon, lime, and orange slices. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh herbs for a bright and appealing presentation.
Enjoy your flavorful and juicy Citrus Dijon Grilled Chicken, perfect for a light and refreshing meal!
FAQ for Easy Citrus Dijon Grilled Chicken
Can I Use Bone-In Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Bone-in chicken will take longer to cook, so you’ll need to grill it for about 10-12 minutes per side. Be sure to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
Can I Marinate the Chicken Overnight?
Absolutely! Marinating overnight is a great idea to deepen the flavor. Just be careful not to marinate for more than 24 hours, as the acid in the citrus can start to break down the chicken and make it mushy.
How Should I Store Leftover Chicken?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm gently in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. Enjoy it cold on a salad for a refreshing lunch too!
Can I Add Other Herbs or Spices?
Definitely! Feel free to customize the flavors. Fresh herbs like basil or parsley add a nice touch, or you could turn up the heat with a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick. Experiment and find your perfect blend!
