This Easy Citrus Dijon Grilled Chicken is bursting with bright flavors! With a zesty mix of citrus and tangy Dijon mustard, it’s a simple way to make chicken sing.
Trust me, the juicy chicken combined with that citrus kick will make you smile. Perfect for outdoor grilling or a quick weeknight dinner with a salad!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect here for their quick cooking. If you’re looking for alternatives, thighs offer juiciness, or you could even try shrimp or tofu for a different protein!
Dijon Mustard: Dijon gives a nice tang to the marinade. If you prefer less spice, use yellow mustard or honey mustard for a sweeter touch. It all depends on your flavor preference.
Citrus Juices: The mix of orange, lemon, and lime adds brightness. You can swap in grapefruit juice or apple cider vinegar for a unique take if you’re out of oranges.
Fresh Herbs: Fresh thyme is great in this recipe, but don’t hesitate to use rosemary or even parsley. Dried herbs work too; just remember to use less, about a third of the amount!
How Do I Get My Chicken Perfectly Grilled?
Grilling chicken can be tricky! Follow these steps for a juicy, charred result:
- Marinate for at least 30 mins to 2 hours. This helps the flavors soak in and keeps it moist.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat to get a proper sear. If the chicken sizzles on contact, you’re good to go!
- Grill for 6-8 minutes on each side, but use a meat thermometer to check for that 165°F (75°C) mark.
- Let it rest for a few minutes after grilling. This allows the juices to redistribute, giving you a tender bite!
Easy Citrus Dijon Grilled Chicken
Ingredients You Will Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- Juice of 1 orange
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Juice of 1 lime
- Zest of 1 orange
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh herbs (thyme or oregano) and citrus slices, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare, plus at least 30 minutes to marinate the chicken. Grill it for about 12 to 16 minutes, and you’re ready to enjoy delicious, grilled chicken in under 1 hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard, orange juice, lemon juice, lime juice, orange zest, minced garlic, olive oil, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Mix until everything is well combined and the marinade looks smooth.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Take your chicken breasts and place them in a large zip-top bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are evenly coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap, then refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, but if you have time, let it marinate for up to 2 hours. This will help the chicken soak up all that tasty flavor!
3. Preheat the Grill:
While the chicken marinates, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This will give you a nice sear on the chicken!
4. Grill the Chicken:
Once the grill is hot, remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off before discarding the marinade. Place the chicken on the grill and cook for about 6 to 8 minutes per side. You want to cook it until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the chicken is nicely charred and cooked through.
5. Let it Rest:
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps keep the juices locked in!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the grilled chicken breasts on a plate, garnished with fresh thyme or oregano and slices of lemon, lime, and orange for a beautiful presentation. Enjoy every juicy, flavorful bite of your Easy Citrus Dijon Grilled Chicken!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Boneless Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Boneless chicken thighs are a great substitute. They tend to be juicier and more flavorful, so just cook them the same way as the breasts, keeping an eye on the internal temperature to ensure they reach 165°F (75°C).
How Long Can I Marinate the Chicken?
You can safely marinate the chicken for up to 2 hours for the best flavor. If you need to marinate it longer, consider doing so overnight in the fridge; just be cautious not to exceed 24 hours, as the chicken may become mushy from the acidity.
Can I Grill the Chicken Indoors?
Yes! If you don’t have an outdoor grill, you can use a grill pan or stovetop grill. Just make sure to preheat it well and adjust the cooking time as needed. Keep an eye on the chicken to avoid burning!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a bit of broth or water to keep it moist.
