Grilled Citrus Chicken with Glaze Recipe – A Zesty, Juicy Summer Meal

I recently made this Grilled Citrus Chicken with Glaze Recipe, and I can honestly say it blew me away. The tangy citrus paired with the sweet glaze creates the perfect balance of flavors that is both refreshing and comforting. I love how quick and simple it is, yet it feels gourmet when served.

Every bite was juicy, flavorful, and full of sunshine. I couldn’t wait to share this recipe with anyone looking for a fun, flavorful meal. You can also enjoy similar flavor-enhancing techniques in a steak marinade tenderizing recipe.

Ingredients

Here’s what I used to make this delicious grilled citrus chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts – Choose fresh, high-quality chicken for juicier results.
• 1/4 cup orange juice – Freshly squeezed brings the best flavor.
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice – Adds a zesty brightness that balances sweetness.
• 2 tablespoons lime juice – Enhances citrus complexity and adds tang.
• 2 tablespoons honey – Use raw honey for a natural sweetness.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – Fresh garlic packs more aroma than pre-minced.
• 1 teaspoon paprika – Adds color and subtle smoky flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt – Enhances all flavors.
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper – Freshly cracked tastes best.
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) – Adds a gentle heat kick.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil – Helps caramelize the chicken during grilling.
• Fresh herbs for garnish (like parsley or cilantro) – Brightens the presentation and flavor.

Note: Several serving

Variations

You can easily tweak this recipe to match your preferences:

• For a sugar-free version, replace honey with maple syrup or a sugar-free sweetener.
• For a dairy-free option, this recipe is already naturally dairy-free.
• Add extra flavor by incorporating ginger, soy sauce, or a splash of balsamic vinegar into the glaze.
• Swap chicken breasts for thighs for juicier, more tender meat. You might also like the techniques used in this steak marinade for grilling recipe to achieve optimal tenderness.

Cooking Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Equipment You Need

• Grill or grill pan – For that perfect sear and smoky flavor.
• Small bowl – To mix your citrus glaze.
• Basting brush – Helps coat the chicken evenly.
• Tongs – For safely turning chicken on the grill.
• Meat thermometer – Ensures chicken reaches safe internal temperature without overcooking.

How to Make Grilled Citrus Chicken with Glaze Recipe?

Prepare the Chicken

I started by trimming excess fat from the chicken breasts. Then, I lightly pounded them to even thickness so they cook uniformly and stay juicy.

Make the Citrus Glaze

In a small bowl, I combined orange, lemon, and lime juices with honey, garlic, paprika, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. I whisked it until smooth and fragrant.

Marinate the Chicken

I poured half of the glaze over the chicken and let it sit for 15–20 minutes. This gives the flavors time to soak in without overpowering the natural chicken taste.

Preheat and Oil the Grill

I preheated my grill to medium-high heat and brushed the grates with olive oil. This prevents sticking and helps get beautiful grill marks.

Grill the Chicken

I placed the chicken on the grill and cooked for 6–7 minutes per side, basting with the remaining glaze. I used a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reached 165°F (74°C).

Rest and Serve

After removing the chicken from the grill, I let it rest for 5 minutes. This locks in the juices before slicing and serving.

Additional Tips for Making this Recipe Better

• I like to zest some citrus over the chicken just before serving for extra aroma.
• Using a meat thermometer is a lifesaver—I never overcook the chicken now.
• I sometimes mix a little brown sugar into the glaze for a caramelized finish.
• Marinating overnight boosts flavor even more, but even 20 minutes works perfectly.

How to Serve Grilled Citrus Chicken with Glaze Recipe?

I enjoy serving this chicken on a platter with fresh greens and roasted vegetables. Garnishing with fresh parsley or cilantro and a few thin citrus slices makes it visually appealing. For a vibrant touch, drizzle a little extra glaze over the sliced chicken before serving.

Nutritional Information

Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown per serving:

• Calories: 220 kcal – A light yet filling meal.
• Protein: 28 g – Keeps you full and satisfied.
• Carbohydrates: 10 g – Mostly from the citrus and honey glaze.
• Fat: 6 g – Healthy fats from olive oil.

Make Ahead and Storage

Refrigeration

Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. I like to slice it before storing to make quick meals later.

Freezing

You can freeze grilled chicken for up to 2 months. Wrap each piece in foil and place in a freezer-safe bag to maintain flavor and moisture.

Reheating

I reheat chicken gently in the oven at 325°F (160°C) for 10–12 minutes or in a skillet with a splash of water to prevent it from drying out.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

Here’s why I think this grilled citrus chicken is a must-try:

• Quick and easy – Perfect for busy weeknights when I want something flavorful without fuss.
• Versatile – Pairs well with salads, rice, pasta, or roasted vegetables.
• Flavor-packed – Sweet, tangy, and slightly smoky, all in one bite.
• Healthy and light – High in protein, low in fat, and naturally dairy-free.
• Customizable – I can tweak the glaze or spices to suit my mood or dietary needs.

Ben Carraoli

Grilled Citrus Chicken with Glaze Recipes

I recently made this grilled citrus chicken with glaze, and I can honestly say it blew me away. The tangy citrus paired with the sweet glaze creates the perfect balance of flavors that is both refreshing and comforting. I love how quick and simple it is, yet it feels gourmet when served.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts – Choose fresh, high-quality chicken for juicier results.
• 1/4 cup orange juice – Freshly squeezed brings the best flavor.
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice – Adds a zesty brightness that balances sweetness.
• 2 tablespoons lime juice – Enhances citrus complexity and adds tang.
• 2 tablespoons honey – Use raw honey for a natural sweetness.
• 2 cloves garlic minced – Fresh garlic packs more aroma than pre-minced.
• 1 teaspoon paprika – Adds color and subtle smoky flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt – Enhances all flavors.
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper – Freshly cracked tastes best.
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional – Adds a gentle heat kick.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil – Helps caramelize the chicken during grilling.
• Fresh herbs for garnish like parsley or cilantro – Brightens the presentation and flavor.

Method

 

1. I started by trimming excess fat from the chicken breasts. Then, I lightly pounded them to even thickness so they cook uniformly and stay juicy.
2. In a small bowl, I combined orange, lemon, and lime juices with honey, garlic, paprika, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. I whisked it until smooth and fragrant.
3. I poured half of the glaze over the chicken and let it sit for 15–20 minutes. This gives the flavors time to soak in without overpowering the natural chicken taste.
4. I preheated my grill to medium-high heat and brushed the grates with olive oil. This prevents sticking and helps get beautiful grill marks.
5. I placed the chicken on the grill and cooked for 6–7 minutes per side, basting with the remaining glaze. I used a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reached 165°F (74°C).
6. After removing the chicken from the grill, I let it rest for 5 minutes. This locks in the juices before slicing and serving.

Notes

• I like to zest some citrus over the chicken just before serving for extra aroma.
• Using a meat thermometer is a lifesaver—I never overcook the chicken now.
• I sometimes mix a little brown sugar into the glaze for a caramelized finish.
• Marinating overnight boosts flavor even more, but even 20 minutes works perfectly.