This juicy grilled chicken is packed with a bright citrus and tangy Dijon flavor. It’s perfect for summer cookouts and super easy to whip up!
I love how the marinade brings out a yummy zest—the chicken practically sings on the grill! Pair it with a salad, and you’ve got yourself a delicious meal ready to impress!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this recipe since they cook quickly and stay juicy. If you prefer dark meat, chicken thighs work well too—they tend to be more tender.
Olive Oil: This is the base of the marinade. You can substitute with any neutral oil like canola or avocado oil, or even use melted coconut oil for a different flavor.
Citrus Juices: Fresh lemon, lime, and orange juice add brightness. If you don’t have fresh fruit, bottled juice can work in a pinch, but check for added sugars. Grapefruit juice could also be a fun twist!
Dijon Mustard: It adds a nice tang. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can use yellow mustard or a honey mustard for a sweeter touch.
Fresh Herbs: I love using fresh thyme and oregano because they brighten the dish. If you don’t have them, dried herbs can substitute—just use less as they’re more concentrated.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken is Juicy and Flavorful?
Marinating is key to infusing your chicken with incredible flavor and keeping it moist. Follow these simple steps to get it right:
- Marinate Time: Aim for at least 30 minutes in the fridge. For even better flavor, let it sit for 1-2 hours.
- Grill Temperature: Make sure the grill is hot enough (medium-high heat) before placing chicken on it. This helps sear the outside, keeping the juices inside.
- Internal Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check that the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C). This ensures it’s properly cooked without being dry.
- Resting Time: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling. This helps the juices redistribute, making every bite tender and juicy.
By following these tips, you’ll have a delicious citrus Dijon grilled chicken every time!
Easy Citrus Dijon Grilled Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Juice of 1 lime
- Juice of 1 orange
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
- 1 tablespoon fresh oregano leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried oregano)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Lemon, lime, and orange slices for garnish
- Fresh herbs for garnish (thyme, oregano, or parsley)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish requires about 15 minutes for preparation and 30 minutes to marinate, plus about 15 minutes for grilling. All in all, you’re looking at roughly 1 hour in total, making it a quick and easy meal to prepare!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, juice from the lemon, lime, and orange, lemon zest, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, thyme, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix it all well until combined! This marinade is what will flavor your chicken beautifully.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Take the chicken breasts and place them in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the citrus Dijon marinade over the chicken, making sure every piece gets a nice coating. Seal the bag or cover the dish, and pop it into the refrigerator. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, but if you can, aim for 1-2 hours for that extra burst of flavor.
3. Get Grilling:
Once your chicken has marinated, it’s time to grill! Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates to keep the chicken from sticking. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess sauce drip off. Place the chicken breasts on the hot grill.
4. Cook to Perfection:
Grill the chicken for about 6-8 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). You’ll know it’s done when you see those beautiful grill marks! Once cooked, take the chicken off the grill and let it rest for a few minutes.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Now it’s time to serve! Garnish your grilled chicken with fresh slices of lemon, lime, and orange, and sprinkle some fresh herbs on top for a lovely presentation. Enjoy your flavorful and juicy citrus Dijon grilled chicken with your favorite sides!
I hope you enjoy making and eating this dish as much as I do! Happy cooking!
FAQ for Easy Citrus Dijon Grilled Chicken
Can I Use Bone-in Chicken or Thighs Instead?
Absolutely! Bone-in chicken or chicken thighs will work wonderfully. Just remember that cooking times will vary—bone-in cuts typically need a bit longer on the grill, so ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Citrus Juices?
No worries! If fresh juices are unavailable, bottled citrus juices can be a good substitute. Just make sure to choose juices without added sugars for the best flavor. Alternatively, you could use equal parts of vinegar for a different but tasty twist!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can prepare the marinade and marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance. Just keep it stored in the refrigerator. On the day of grilling, just take it out, let it come to room temperature for about 15 minutes, then grill as usual.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat it gently in the microwave or on the stovetop. Consider slicing it to add to salads, wraps, or grain bowls for added flavor!
