Grilled Chicken with Unexpected Citrus Marinade
This dish features boneless chicken breasts marinated in a tangy citrus-based mixture with a secret ingredient that adds subtle depth and complexity. The chicken is grilled until nicely charred, resulting in a tender, juicy final texture with a flavorful exterior and moist interior. The marinade helps the chicken develop a glossy, flavorful coating with a hint of smoky sweetness.
Equipment
- Grill
- Mixing bowl
Ingredients
- 4 pieces boneless chicken breasts skinless and boneless
- 1/4 cup soy sauce adds umami and saltiness
- 1/4 cup orange juice freshly squeezed for acidity and sweetness
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar adds a subtle tang and balances flavors
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika for smoky depth
- 1 teaspoon honey to mellow acidity if needed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil for marinade and brushing
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together soy sauce, orange juice, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, smoked paprika, honey, and olive oil until well combined and the marinade is slightly frothy.
- Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over them, ensuring each piece is well coated. Seal or cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat, aiming for around 375°F (190°C), until hot and ready.
- Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting excess drip off, and place it onto the hot grill. Discard any leftover marinade.
- Grill the chicken breasts for about 6–8 minutes on each side, flipping once, until the outside is charred and caramelized, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Listen for a gentle sizzle and look for grill marks.
- In the last few minutes, brush the chicken with a little olive oil or marinade for extra gloss and flavor, being careful not to over-charr.
- Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes to redistribute the juices. The exterior should be nicely charred, with a juicy and tender interior.
- Slice the chicken crosswise, revealing a moist, flavorful interior with a slight smoky hue.
- Serve immediately, perhaps with grilled vegetables or your favorite sides to enjoy this vibrant, smoky chicken dish.