This Citrus Dijon Grilled Chicken is a flavorful dish that combines tangy citrus and zesty mustard for a tasty marinade. It’s perfect for summer cookouts and gets everyone excited about grilled food!
I love how the chicken comes out juicy and full of flavor. Plus, it’s super simple! Just marinate, grill, and enjoy those delicious bites with friends. It’s a sure crowd-pleaser!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the focus here for their tenderness. If you prefer, chicken thighs can also be a great option as they stay juicy even if slightly overcooked.
Dijon Mustard: Dijon adds a tangy kick. If you can’t find it, you could use yellow mustard for a milder taste, or even honey mustard for a hint of sweetness.
Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed orange juice brightens the flavor. If you’re in a pinch, bottled juice works too, but fresh is always better. Grapefruit juice can offer a fun twist!
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is ideal. If you don’t have fresh, 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder can stand in, though fresh has a stronger taste.
Herbs: Thyme really shines in this dish. If you can’t get dried thyme, use about three times more fresh thyme. Other herbs like rosemary or oregano can also bring a different flavor profile.
How Do I Grill Chicken Perfectly Without It Getting Dry?
Grilling chicken can sometimes be tricky, but with a few steps, you can keep it juicy. Start by marinating, which not only adds flavor but also helps tenderize the meat. Remember, the longer you marinate (but not over 4 hours), the more flavorful it will be.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat before placing the chicken on it.
- Grill each side for 6-8 minutes, but use a meat thermometer. Aim for 165°F (75°C) to be perfectly cooked.
- After grilling, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before cutting. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping it moist.
How to Make Citrus Dijon Grilled Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed if possible)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or fresh if available)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Citrus slices (lemon and orange)
- Fresh herbs (like thyme or parsley)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 10 minutes of preparation time and an additional 30 minutes to 4 hours for marinating. Cooking on the grill will take around 15 minutes. So, plan for about 45 minutes to 4 hours total, depending on how long you choose to marinate the chicken.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard, orange juice, lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Keep whisking until everything is well mixed and smooth. This marinade will give your chicken a zesty flavor!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Take the chicken breasts and place them in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece is well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and pop it in the refrigerator. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours if you want a bolder flavor.
3. Grill the Chicken:
When you’re ready to cook, fire up your grill and preheat it to medium-high heat. Take the chicken out of the marinade and discard any leftover marinade. Place the chicken on the grill and cook for about 6-8 minutes on each side. You’ll know it’s done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C), and you see those lovely grill marks!
4. Rest and Serve:
Once the chicken is grilled to perfection, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes to keep it juicy. Serve your grilled chicken with fresh citrus slices and a sprinkle of herbs on top for a colorful and tasty presentation. Enjoy your flavorful meal!
Can I Use Different Types of Mustard?
Absolutely! While Dijon mustard gives a nice tang, you can substitute it with whole grain mustard for a bit more texture or yellow mustard for a milder flavor. Just note that the overall taste will change slightly, but it will still be delicious!
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Citrus Juice?
No worries! You can use store-bought orange and lemon juice instead. Just try to choose high-quality juices without added sugars or preservatives for the best flavor. If using bottled juice, use the same quantities as fresh juice in the recipe.
How Long Can I Marinate the Chicken?
For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but you can marinate it for up to 4 hours. If you’re short on time, even 15 minutes will add some flavor. Just avoid marinating for more than 4 hours, as the acidity from the citrus juice can start to break down the chicken’s texture.
Can I Cook This Chicken in the Oven Instead?
Yes! Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). After marinating, place the chicken in a baking dish and cook it for about 25-30 minutes, or until it reaches the internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). This is a great alternative if you can’t grill due to weather or lack of equipment!
