If you’re searching for a dish that practically guarantees bright, zesty flavor and juicy, tender chicken every time, you’re in for a treat with this Grilled Citrus Chicken with Glaze Recipe. It brings together three kinds of citrus, honey, a little kick of garlic, and a brush of sweet-tangy glaze to transform simple chicken breasts into something downright crave-worthy. Whether you’re firing up the grill for a weeknight meal or planning a relaxed backyard dinner, this recipe bursts with color, aroma, and a freshness that keeps everyone coming back for one more bite.

Grilled Citrus Chicken with Glaze Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Super fresh ingredients are the secret behind the magic of the Grilled Citrus Chicken with Glaze Recipe. Each item in this lineup isn’t just a building block—every one enhances the dish’s vibrant flavors, tender texture, and gorgeous color in its own way.

Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the perfect canvas for soaking up the lively marinade and stay beautifully moist on the grill.
Orange Juice: Adds a sweet citrus foundation, balancing tartness and infusing the chicken with subtle, sunny notes.
Lime Juice: Brightens everything up with its tang, elevating the marinade and glaze to a new level of refreshing flavor.
Lemon Juice: Lends a sharp, clean zing for all-around citrus complexity.
Honey: Naturally sweet and helps the glaze caramelize on the grill for irresistible color and flavor.
Olive Oil: Keeps the chicken moist and helps meld all the flavors together.
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic adds aromatic depth and a gentle heat that’s never overpowering.
Soy Sauce: Brings a savory note to balance all the bright flavors, plus just the right amount of saltiness.
Dijon Mustard: Offers a little tangy sharpness that makes the glaze sing.
Salt and Black Pepper: The dynamic duo for seasoning—essential for waking up the flavors.
Crushed Red Pepper Flakes (optional): For anyone who likes a bit of subtle heat in the background.
Zest of 1 Orange and 1 Lime: Packed with citrus oils, these boost both the aroma and taste.
Chopped Fresh Parsley or Cilantro (optional): Reserve these for a burst of color and a final touch of freshness when serving.

How to Make Grilled Citrus Chicken with Glaze Recipe

Step 1: Whisk the Marinade and Glaze

Start by grabbing a medium mixing bowl—it’s time to blend up that powerhouse marinade. Whisk together the orange juice, lime juice, lemon juice, honey, olive oil, minced garlic, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if you’re craving some heat). Don’t forget to add both orange and lime zest. This medley isn’t just fragrant—it’ll have you dreaming about dinner already. Important: pour out about 1/4 cup of this mixture and set it aside now for glazing later.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Next, lay your chicken breasts in a zip-top bag or a shallow dish—whatever’s easiest for you. Pour the rest of the marinade over the chicken, making sure every piece is coated. Seal it up and pop it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. If you have time, aim for a few hours or even overnight. This step is what infuses your chicken with irresistible citrus flavor, ensuring every bite is anything but bland.

Step 3: Preheat Your Grill

As your chicken soaks up all that flavor, fire up your grill to medium-high heat. This temperature is just right for developing gorgeous grill marks while keeping the meat tender and juicy. Make sure your grill grates are clean and lightly oiled so nothing sticks when it’s time to cook.

Step 4: Grill the Chicken

Remove the chicken from the marinade (and discard the liquid that’s touched raw meat for food safety). Arrange the chicken breasts on the hot grill. Let them cook for about 6 to 7 minutes on the first side, then flip and grill the other side until fully cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F. You’ll already notice those bright citrusy aromas building around you!

Step 5: Brush with Reserved Glaze

During the final couple minutes of grilling, grab that reserved marinade you set aside earlier. For an extra-special touch, you can simmer it in a small pan over the grill for 2–3 minutes to make it slightly thicker (totally optional, but delicious). Brush this glaze generously over the chicken, letting it bubble and caramelize for a shiny, flavorful finish that will have your mouth watering.

Step 6: Rest, Garnish, and Serve

After grilling, move the chicken to a plate and let it rest for a few minutes. This locks in all those lovely juices. Finish with a scatter of fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a pop of color and aroma. Congratulations—you’ve just made the ultimate Grilled Citrus Chicken with Glaze Recipe!

How to Serve Grilled Citrus Chicken with Glaze Recipe

Garnishes

A vibrant recipe like Grilled Citrus Chicken with Glaze Recipe truly shines with just the right garnish. I like to sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or bright cilantro over the finished dish for a burst of green that’s as appetizing as it is aromatic. A few extra curls of citrus zest or some thinly sliced green onions also look beautiful and echo those fresh flavors.

Side Dishes

This citrus-glazed chicken pairs effortlessly with so many sides. Think herby rice pilaf, grilled asparagus, or a simple mixed greens salad dressed with a citrus vinaigrette to echo the main flavors. Roasted sweet potatoes or corn on the cob add balance, while a bowl of fluffy quinoa gives the meal a wholesome, filling edge.

Creative Ways to Present

Don’t be afraid to get playful with presentation. Slice up the chicken and fan it over a big platter of greens or a grain bowl. Skewer chunks of chicken with grilled veggies for a festive twist. Or serve the chicken whole on a rustic cutting board, surrounded by citrus wedges—so everyone can squeeze a little extra brightness right before digging in.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers of the Grilled Citrus Chicken with Glaze Recipe are far from boring! Once cooled, keep the chicken in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay juicy and flavorful for up to 3 days, making for great packed lunches or speedy dinners.

Freezing

If you want to save a few pieces for later, you’re in luck—this chicken freezes beautifully. Cool it completely, wrap tightly, and store in a freezer-safe bag or container. For best taste and texture, enjoy within two months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating

To bring your leftover chicken back to life, warm it gently in the oven (covered) at 325°F until heated through, or microwave it on medium power, checking often to avoid overcooking. Add a splash of orange juice or chicken broth to keep things extra moist and restore that just-grilled taste.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs work wonderfully with this recipe and tend to stay even juicier on the grill. Just adjust the grilling time slightly, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.

Can I marinate the chicken overnight?

Yes, marinating overnight is a fantastic way to deepen the citrus and herbal flavors in the chicken. Just be sure not to let it go beyond 24 hours to avoid the acids breaking down the texture too much.

Is there a way to make the glaze thicker?

Definitely! Simmer the reserved marinade in a small saucepan over low heat for a couple of minutes before brushing. It reduces slightly, creating a glossy, clingy glaze perfect for finishing the chicken.

What should I do if I don’t have a grill?

No worries at all! You can cook the chicken on a stovetop grill pan or even bake it in the oven at 400°F until it reaches the right internal temperature, brushing with glaze toward the end.

Can I make the Grilled Citrus Chicken with Glaze Recipe gluten-free?

Yes—you probably already are! Just double-check that your soy sauce is labeled gluten-free, and you’re good to go with this naturally gluten-free main course.

Final Thoughts

If you’re ready to bring some sunshine to your dinner table, don’t wait to try this Grilled Citrus Chicken with Glaze Recipe. It’s the kind of dish that wows with minimal effort, delivers bursts of fabulous flavor, and leaves everyone asking for the recipe—so get grilling and enjoy every juicy, zest-kissed bite!

Grilled Citrus Chicken with Glaze Recipe

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4.8 from 17 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 25 minutes (plus marinating time)
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

This Grilled Citrus Chicken with Glaze recipe is a perfect combination of tangy citrus flavors and savory grilled chicken, creating a delightful dish for any occasion. The marinade infuses the chicken with zesty notes, while the glaze adds a shiny finish and extra flavor. Easy to make and bursting with summery vibes, this dish is sure to become a favorite at your table.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken Marinade:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1/4 cup orange juice
1/4 cup lime juice
2 tablespoons lemon juice
3 tablespoons honey
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic (minced)
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
zest of 1 orange
zest of 1 lime

For Garnish:

Chopped fresh parsley or cilantro (optional)

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Instructions

Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together the orange juice, lime juice, lemon juice, honey, olive oil, garlic, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, red pepper flakes, and citrus zests. Reserve 1/4 cup for glazing.
Marinate the Chicken: Place chicken in a bag, pour in the marinade, seal, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Grill the Chicken: Preheat grill, remove chicken from marinade, grill for 6–7 minutes per side until cooked through.
Glaze the Chicken: Brush with reserved marinade during the last few minutes of grilling for a shiny finish.
Rest and Serve: Remove from grill, rest briefly, garnish with herbs if desired, and serve.