Citrus Dijon Grilled Chicken

This citrus Dijon marinade transforms ordinary chicken into a vibrant, flavor-packed meal that's become my secret weapon for both last-minute dinner guests and busy weeknights. The bright, zesty flavors of three citrus fruits combined with herbs and Dijon create chicken that's juicy on the inside with perfectly caramelized edges.

I first created this recipe when unexpected guests were coming for dinner and all I had was chicken breasts and citrus fruits. The marinade was such a hit that it's now requested at nearly every summer gathering we host.

Ingredients

• Boneless skinless chicken breasts: Choose pieces of similar thickness for even cooking
• Olive oil: Creates a base for the marinade and helps prevent chicken from sticking to the grill
• Dijon mustard: Adds tangy depth and helps tenderize the meat
• Fresh citrus juices (lime, lemon, and orange): Provide bright acidity and natural tenderizing properties
• Salt: Enhances all the flavors and helps the chicken retain moisture
• Garlic powder: Infuses aromatic notes without the risk of burning that fresh garlic has on the grill
• Italian seasoning or Herbs de Provence: Delivers a complex herb flavor in one convenient ingredient
• Fresh thyme and oregano: Brighten the dish with vibrant herbal notes
• Crushed red pepper flakes: Add a subtle heat that balances the sweetness of the citrus

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Marinade:

Whisk together olive oil, Dijon mustard, and all citrus juices until fully emulsified. Add salt, garlic powder, dried herbs, fresh herbs, and red pepper flakes. Whisk vigorously until completely combined. The marinade should look smooth and slightly thickened from the mustard. Remember to reserve 1/4 cup for basting later.

Marinate the Chicken:

Place chicken breasts in a shallow dish or ziplock bag and pour marinade over them, ensuring each piece is well coated. Massage the marinade into the chicken if using a bag. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, allowing the acids from the citrus to tenderize the meat and the flavors to penetrate deeply.

Preheat and Prepare Grill:

Heat your grill to medium (approximately 375°F). Clean the grates thoroughly and oil them to prevent sticking. This crucial step ensures beautiful grill marks and prevents tearing when you flip the chicken.

Begin Grilling:

Place marinated chicken on the preheated grill, using tongs to avoid piercing the meat, which would release valuable juices. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes undisturbed to develop nice grill marks and allow proteins to set.

Baste and Finish Cooking:

Flip chicken and brush with half of the reserved marinade. Cook another 5 to 7 minutes, then flip again, applying the remaining marinade. Continue cooking until the internal temperature reaches 165°F, about 2 to 4 minutes more. The exterior should be nicely caramelized with visible grill marks.

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The secret to this recipe is actually in the triple citrus combination. I discovered by accident that using all three citrus fruits creates a complex flavor that one alone could never achieve. My daughter now requests this as her birthday dinner every year, calling it my sunshine chicken.

Make Ahead and Storage

This marinade is perfect for meal planning. You can prepare the marinade up to 3 days ahead and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The chicken can marinate overnight, making it ideal for prepping before a busy day. Simply take it out of the fridge about 20 minutes before grilling to take the chill off.

Leftover cooked chicken stays juicy for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. I often make extra specifically for leftovers, which are wonderful sliced cold over salads or quickly reheated for grain bowls. For best results, reheat gently in a covered skillet with a tablespoon of water to create steam.

Perfect Pairings

This bright citrusy chicken pairs beautifully with Mediterranean-inspired sides. My family loves it with a simple Greek salad and roasted lemon potatoes. For a lighter option, try serving it with quinoa tossed with fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon, or a crisp cucumber and tomato salad.

For entertaining, I often serve this chicken sliced on a platter surrounded by grilled vegetables and a side of tzatziki sauce. The cool, creamy sauce complements the bright flavors of the chicken perfectly and adds an elegant touch that guests always appreciate.

Variations to Try

The beauty of this marinade lies in its versatility. While I typically use chicken breasts, it works wonderfully with chicken thighs, which stay even juicier on the grill. For a different protein experience, try it with firm white fish like halibut or even large shrimp, reducing the marinating time to just 20 minutes.

For those who enjoy more intense flavors, try adding a tablespoon of grated citrus zest to the marinade. The oils in the zest provide an aromatic punch that takes this dish to another level. During summer months, I often add a tablespoon of honey, which caramelizes beautifully on the grill.

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Recipe FAQs

→ How long should I marinate the chicken?

For best results, marinate the chicken for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat. You can marinate for as little as 30 minutes in a pinch, but for maximum flavor development, marinate up to 12 hours (overnight).

→ Can I use different citrus fruits?

Yes! While the original calls for lemon, lime, and orange juices, you can substitute more of one kind if you're lacking variety. All lemon or all lime works very well if that's what you have on hand.

→ What herbs work best in this marinade?

The recipe calls for Italian seasoning or Herbs de Provence, plus fresh thyme and oregano. If you don't have a pre-mixed blend, you can make your own by combining equal parts dried thyme, parsley, oregano, and basil. Fresh herbs will provide the most vibrant flavor.

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

For an extra flavor boost, double the garlic powder and crushed red pepper flakes in the marinade. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a diced jalapeño for additional heat.

→ Can I cook this chicken in the oven instead of grilling?

Absolutely! Bake the marinated chicken in a preheated 425°F (220°C) oven for about 20-25 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Brush with reserved marinade halfway through cooking time.

→ What sides pair well with this chicken?

This versatile chicken pairs beautifully with rice pilaf, roasted vegetables, a fresh green salad, or grilled corn on the cob. The bright citrus flavors also complement Mediterranean-inspired sides like couscous or orzo pasta salad.