This grilled chicken is bursting with fresh citrus flavors and a hint of tangy Dijon mustard. It’s perfect for a sunny day or any time you want something tasty!
I love how simple it is to make—just marinate, grill, and enjoy! Serve it with a salad, and you’ve got a delicious meal that feels fancy but is super easy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: I always use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this recipe since they cook evenly and stay moist. If you prefer dark meat, feel free to use boneless thighs—they will add extra richness!
Dijon Mustard: It gives a nice tangy flavor. If you don’t have Dijon, yellow mustard can be used, but it will alter the taste slightly. I like to keep Dijon on hand for many recipes!
Citrus Juices: Freshly squeezed juice is best for flavor. You can substitute bottled juice in a pinch, but it won’t be as fresh. A mix of your favorite citrus works well if you want to switch things up!
Honey or Maple Syrup: I love honey for its sweetness, but maple syrup is a great alternative, especially if you’re vegan. Just remember, it will add a slight maple flavor.
Herbs: Dried oregano works fine, but fresh herbs pack more flavor. If you don’t have oregano, try thyme or basil to give it a different twist!
How Do You Get the Best Grilling Results?
Grilling chicken can be tricky, but following these tips ensures juicy, tasty results:
- Preheat the Grill: Make sure your grill is hot before adding the chicken. This helps create those beautiful grill marks and locks in moisture.
- Oil the Grate: Use a paper towel with a bit of oil to wipe the grate. This will prevent the chicken from sticking.
- Don’t Flip Too Soon: Let the chicken cook undisturbed for about 6-7 minutes on one side before flipping. This prevents tearing and ensures even cooking.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure chicken is safe to eat, check that it reaches 165°F (75°C) in the thickest part.
- Let It Rest: Resting the chicken for about 5 minutes after grilling allows the juices to redistribute, making it more flavorful and tender.
With these tips and ingredient insights, you’re all set to grill up a delicious dish that’s sure to impress! Enjoy your cooking!
Easy Citrus Dijon Grilled Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano or 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh herbs (such as oregano or thyme) for garnish
- Citrus slices (lemon, lime, orange) for garnish
Time Estimate:
You’ll need about 15 minutes for preparation and at least 30 minutes for marinating. If you want even more flavor, marinate for 1-2 hours. Grilling takes about 15 minutes. So total, you’re looking at around 1 hour, including resting time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard, orange juice, lemon juice, lime juice, minced garlic, olive oil, honey, oregano, salt, and black pepper until it’s all nicely combined. This marinade is what makes the chicken flavorful!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Place the chicken breasts in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece is coated well. Seal the bag or cover the dish and pop it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. For best results, marinate for 1-2 hours. Just be careful not to marinate too long (no more than 8 hours) because the citrus can start to cook the chicken.
3. Preheat the Grill:
While the chicken is marinating, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates with a paper towel dipped in oil to prevent sticking.
4. Grill the Chicken:
Once the chicken is marinated, take it out of the fridge. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess drip off. Discard the leftover marinade. Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and you see nice grill marks.
5. Let It Rest:
After grilling, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps the juices stay inside the chicken for extra flavor and tenderness.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the grilled chicken topped with fresh citrus slices and a sprinkle of herbs. Pair it with your favorite sides like a crisp green salad, grilled veggies, or fluffy rice for a complete meal.
This Easy Citrus Dijon Grilled Chicken is the perfect combination of tangy and savory, making it an elegant yet simple dish to impress your family and friends!
FAQ: Easy Citrus Dijon Grilled Chicken
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs will work wonderfully in this recipe and can add a bit more richness and flavor. Just ensure they are cooked to the same internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Citrus? Can I Use Bottled Juice?
Yes, you can use bottled citrus juice if you’re short on fresh fruits. Just keep in mind that fresh juice has a brighter flavor. Choose a high-quality, 100% juice for the best results!
Can I Make the Marinade Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can make the marinade and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just add the chicken on the day you plan to grill, allowing it to marinate fresh!
How Should I Store Leftover Chicken?
Store any leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth to keep it moist!
