This Easy Citrus Dijon Grilled Chicken is bursting with fresh flavors! Made with zesty lemon and tangy Dijon mustard, each bite is juicy and delicious, perfect for any meal.
I love how quick it is to whip up! Just marinate the chicken, throw it on the grill, and enjoy a yummy feast. It always impresses friends at cookouts—who doesn’t love juicy chicken? 🍗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless chicken breasts make this recipe easy and quick. If you’re looking for a substitution, skin-on chicken thighs will add more flavor and juiciness.
Olive Oil: Olive oil helps keep the chicken moist. If you don’t have it, canola or avocado oil works, too! They’re great for high-heat cooking.
Dijon Mustard: This adds a tangy punch to the marinade. If you want a milder flavor, yellow mustard is a fine substitute.
Citrus Juices: Fresh lemon and lime juice give a bright flavor, while orange juice adds sweetness. If you don’t have orange juice, you can skip it or add a bit more lemon/lime juice.
Honey/Maple Syrup: This balances the acidity from the citrus. You can use agave syrup or brown sugar if you prefer a different sweetener.
What’s the Best Way to Marinate Chicken?
Marinating chicken is key to making it flavorful and juicy. Here’s how to do it right:
- Mix your marinade in a bowl, ensuring all ingredients blend well.
- Place chicken in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish to maximize flavor absorption.
- Make sure every piece is coated by squeezing the bag or using a spatula to turn the chicken around.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes—up to 2 hours is best. Avoid marinating too long, as the acid can make the chicken mushy.
Remember, always discard the marinade after use! Happy grilling!
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 fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- 1 tablespoon orange juice (optional)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano or 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Citrus slices (lemon, lime, orange) for garnish
- Fresh herbs (oregano, thyme, or parsley) for garnish
Time Needed:
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time plus marination (30 minutes to 2 hours) and 12-14 minutes for grilling. So overall, expect to invest about 45 minutes to 2 hours to delicious chicken perfection!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the olive oil, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, lime juice, orange juice (if using), minced garlic, honey, oregano, salt, and pepper. Make sure everything is mixed well so the chicken will be flavorful.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Put the chicken breasts into a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and place it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, but 2 hours is best for maximum flavor!
3. Preheat the Grill:
Get your grill ready by preheating it to medium-high heat. A hot grill will give you those lovely char marks!
4. Grill the Chicken:
Take the chicken out of the marinade, shaking off any excess. Discard the remaining marinade. Place the chicken on the grill and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side. You want them to reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
5. Let It Rest:
Once your chicken is perfectly grilled, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices settle inside, making your chicken extra juicy!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Slice or serve the grilled chicken whole, garnished with fresh citrus slices and herbs. It’s perfect with a side of salad, grilled veggies, or rice pilaf. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Cuts of Chicken?
Absolutely! While boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this recipe, you can use skin-on chicken thighs or drumsticks. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as darker meat might take a bit longer to cook through.
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Citrus Juices?
No worries! You can substitute with bottled lemon and lime juices. While fresh juices add more vibrant flavor, bottled versions work in a pinch. Just make sure they’re 100% juice without added sugars or preservatives for the best taste.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure to let the chicken cool completely before sealing it up. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat to maintain its juiciness!
Can I Grill This Chicken in the Oven?
Yes! If you don’t have a grill, you can bake the marinated chicken in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). For that grilled flavor, you can finish under the broiler for a couple of minutes, just watch closely to prevent burning!
