Description
Citrus Dijon Grilled Chicken features juicy boneless skinless chicken breasts marinated in a vibrant blend of fresh citrus juices, Dijon mustard, and aromatic herbs. This easy-to-make marinade infuses the chicken with bright, tangy flavors and a subtle kick of heat from crushed red pepper flakes. Perfectly grilled over medium heat, the chicken turns out tender and flavorful, ideal for a healthy weeknight dinner or weekend BBQ.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
Marinade
- ½ cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- Juice of 1 lime
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Juice of 2 oranges
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or Herbs de Provence)
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, finely chopped (or ¼ teaspoon dried herbs)
- 1 teaspoon fresh oregano, finely chopped (or ¼ teaspoon dried herbs)
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Prepare Marinade: Combine olive oil, Dijon mustard, lime juice, lemon juice, orange juice, salt, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, fresh thyme, fresh oregano, and crushed red pepper flakes in a bowl or jar. Whisk vigorously or cover and shake well to blend all ingredients thoroughly. Reserve ¼ cup of this marinade for basting later.
- Marinate Chicken: Place chicken breasts in a large bowl or zip-close bag and pour the marinade (excluding the reserved ¼ cup) over the chicken. Toss or seal and massage to ensure the chicken is evenly coated. Refrigerate and marinate for at least 1 hour or up to overnight for deeper flavor.
- Preheat Grill: When ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium heat. Oil the grates to prevent sticking and prepare for grilling.
- Grill First Side: Use tongs or a fork to place the marinated chicken on the grill. Cook for 5-7 minutes without moving to develop good grill marks and to cook through partially.
- Flip and Baste First Time: Turn the chicken breasts over and brush half of the reserved marinade onto the top surface. Continue cooking for another 5-7 minutes.
- Flip and Baste Second Time: Flip the chicken breasts again, brush the remaining reserved marinade over the tops, and grill for an additional 2-4 minutes. Continue cooking until the chicken is cooked through and the juices run clear when pierced.
- Serve: Remove grilled chicken from the heat and serve immediately. Garnish with fresh herbs and wedges of lemon, lime, or orange for extra brightness. Enjoy your flavorful citrus Dijon grilled chicken!
Notes
- For a different herb flavor, substitute Italian seasoning with Herbs de Provence.
- Marinating overnight enhances the flavor and tenderness of the chicken.
- To ensure even cooking, pound chicken breasts to an even thickness before marinating.
- If you don’t have a grill, this recipe can also be cooked on a grill pan or broiled in the oven.
- Use fresh citrus juices for the best flavor intensity in the marinade.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American