Description
This vibrant Grilled Citrus Chicken recipe features juicy boneless chicken breasts marinated in a zesty blend of fresh orange, lemon, and lime juices combined with fragrant spices and garlic. Grilled to perfection for a smoky, charred exterior and tender inside, this dish is perfectly complemented by fresh cilantro and citrus slices, making it an ideal light and flavorful meal 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 olive oil, orange juice, lemon juice, lime juice, soy sauce, minced garlic, honey, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper until fully combined.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a large resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken ensuring all pieces are evenly coated. Seal or cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, preferably 2 to 4 hours, turning occasionally for even marination.
- Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, approximately 400°F (200°C). Oil the grill grates well if using a gas grill to prevent sticking. For charcoal grills, arrange coals evenly with a light coating of ash.
- Grill the Chicken: Remove chicken from the marinade and let excess drip off; discard marinade. Place chicken breasts on grill and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C), and the chicken is nicely charred and cooked through. Cooking time may vary depending on thickness.
- Rest the Chicken: Remove from grill and let rest for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute for tender and juicy results.
- Serve: Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro and serve with lemon, lime, and orange slices if desired for added citrus flavor and color.
Notes
- Marinate chicken for at least 30 minutes, but 2-4 hours yields the best flavor.
- Make sure grill grates are well-oiled to prevent sticking when cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is cooked through (165°F / 75°C).
- Allow chicken to rest after grilling to retain juiciness.
- Optional garnish of fresh cilantro and citrus slices enhances presentation and taste.
