This Easy Citrus Dijon Grilled Chicken is a zesty treat that’s sure to please! The bright flavors of citrus mixed with Dijon mustard create a tasty marinade that makes the chicken juicy and flavorful.
Who wouldn’t love a meal that tastes good and is easy to make? I enjoy serving this with a side of fresh veggies or a simple salad. It’s perfect for warm nights or quick dinners!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless are ideal for this recipe, as they grill quickly and stay moist. You can use thighs if you prefer dark meat; they can add more flavor and juiciness.
Dijon Mustard: This provides a tangy flavor. If you want a milder taste, yellow mustard works too. You could also try honey mustard for a sweeter twist!
Citrus Juices: Fresh juices work best for flavor. If you’re in a pinch, bottled juice can be used, but the taste won’t be as vibrant. Mix it up with other citrus like grapefruit if you want to change things up!
Fresh Herbs: I love using oregano, but feel free to use other herbs like thyme or basil for a different flavor profile. Dried herbs work well if fresh aren’t available, just use a bit less.
How Do You Get the Chicken Juicy and Flavorful on the Grill?
Marinating is key! Letting the chicken soak in the marinade for at least 30 minutes (or up to a couple of hours) allows the flavors to penetrate. The acid from the citrus helps tenderize the chicken, making it juicy.
- Whisk together marinade ingredients well.
- Make sure all chicken pieces are coated evenly. Use a resealable bag for easy mixing!
- Grill on medium-high heat to get that perfect sear while keeping the inside juicy. Don’t flip too often; let it cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side.
Let it rest for a few minutes after grilling. This helps the juices redistribute, ensuring every bite is as juicy as can be!
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 lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 2 tablespoons orange juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 tablespoon lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano or 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Citrus slices (lemon, lime, orange) for garnish
- Fresh herbs (such as thyme or oregano) for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare the marinade, plus at least 30 minutes for marinating, and around 15 minutes to grill the chicken. Overall, you can expect to spend about 1 hour, making it a simple and quick meal for any night!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a bowl, whisk together the olive oil, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, orange juice, lime juice, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well until it’s nicely blended. This is your flavorful marinade that will make the chicken delicious!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Place the chicken breasts in a large resealable plastic bag or shallow dish, then pour the marinade over them. Make sure the chicken is well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and place it in the refrigerator. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes, but for even better flavor, aim for 1-2 hours.
3. Preheat the Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This ensures that the chicken cooks quickly and evenly, giving it a nice sear.
4. Grill the Chicken:
Take the chicken out of the marinade, letting any excess drip off. Discard the leftover marinade. Place the chicken breasts on the grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side. You want until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
5. Let It Rest:
Once done grilling, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping it moist and tender.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the chicken garnished with fresh citrus slices and herbs for a bright, fresh presentation. Enjoy it with your favorite sides or a light salad for a complete meal!
FAQ
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and can add more flavor to the dish. Just be sure to adjust the grilling time as thighs may take a little longer to cook through due to their thicker texture.
What Can I Substitute for Dijon Mustard?
If you’re out of Dijon mustard, you can use yellow mustard for a milder flavor or honey mustard if you prefer a hint of sweetness. Just keep in mind that it will alter the overall taste slightly!
How Should I Store Leftover Grilled Chicken?
Leftover grilled chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage. Just make sure to cool it completely before sealing it to avoid condensation.
Can I Marinade the Chicken Overnight?
Yes, marinating the chicken overnight works great! It allows the flavors to develop even further. Just be cautious not to exceed 24 hours to prevent the chicken from getting too tender and mushy from the acidic marinade.
