Are you ready to elevate your dinner game with a burst of vibrant flavors? Look no further than this Citrus Marinated Chicken Breasts recipe! With just a handful of fresh ingredients and a zesty marinade that infuses the chicken with tangy goodness, you’ll have a dish that’s not only delicious but also impressively easy to prepare. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, this recipe promises juicy, tender chicken that will have your taste buds dancing. Ready to unlock the secret to mouthwatering chicken? Let’s dive into the details!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup orange juice
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine orange juice, lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper to create the marinade. Whisk the ingredients together until well blended.
- Place the chicken breasts in a large resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the prepared marinade over the chicken, ensuring each breast is thoroughly coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for 30 minutes to 2 hours. Do not marinate longer than 2 hours to prevent the citrus from breaking down the chicken's texture.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (around 375-400°F) or prepare a grill pan on the stovetop over medium-high heat. Remove chicken from the marinade and discard the remaining liquid.
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to ensure proper searing and to help prevent sticking to the cooking surface.
- Grill the chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F when checked with a meat thermometer. The chicken should have nice grill marks and appear golden brown.
- Remove chicken from heat and let rest for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute, which helps keep the meat tender and moist.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving. Serve hot with your choice of side dishes like roasted vegetables, rice, or salad.
Tips
- Marination Time: For the best flavor, aim to marinate the chicken for at least 1 hour, but no longer than 2 hours. This allows the citrus to penetrate the meat without compromising its texture.
- Grilling Temperature: Ensure your grill is preheated to medium-high heat (375-400°F) for optimal searing. This helps achieve those beautiful grill marks while keeping the chicken juicy inside.
- Pat Dry: Before grilling, pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for achieving a nice sear and preventing the chicken from sticking to the grill.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure perfectly cooked chicken, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F. This guarantees that the chicken is safe to eat while remaining moist and tender.
- Resting Period: After grilling, let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is succulent and flavorful.
- Serve with Sides: Pair your citrus marinated chicken with roasted vegetables, fluffy rice, or a refreshing salad to create a well-rounded meal that’s sure to impress!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 220kcal
Carbohydrates: 3g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 85mg
