Get ready to savor an explosion of deliciousness with this Grilled Orange Honey Chicken. Imagine tender chicken marinated in a blend of sweet honey, fresh orange juice, and aromatic spices. This dish will soon become your go-to for every barbecue or dinner craving a splash of flavor. Let’s dive into this culinary delight!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Unbeatable Flavor: The blend of honey and orange creates a sweet and tangy marinade that infuses the chicken with irresistible taste.
- Quick and Easy: With just a few ingredients and simple steps, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinners.
- Versatility: Enjoy it grilled, or turn to the stovetop when the weather isn’t cooperating.
- Healthy and Light: This dish is low in fat and high in protein, making it a nutritious option that doesn’t skimp on taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Grilled Orange Honey Chicken lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient shines through, contributing its own unique flavor to make the chicken truly special.
- Chicken: Opt for boneless, skinless breasts or thighs to allow the marinade to penetrate fully and achieve juicy perfection.
- Coconut Aminos or Soy Sauce: Adds a subtle umami depth and balances the sweetness of the honey.
- Orange Juice: Fresh or bottled works great, providing a citrusy zing that brightens the dish.
- Honey: Choose a good quality honey for a natural sweetness that caramelizes beautifully on the grill.
- Ground Ginger: Adds a hint of warmth and spice, enhancing the overall complexity.
- Garlic Powder: A must for depth and savory notes without overpowering the orange and honey.
- Orange Zest: Boosts the citrus flavor, turning this dish into a flavor bomb.
Variations
Feel free to make this Grilled Orange Honey Chicken your own by swapping or adding ingredients to suit dietary preferences or just to mix it up a little.
- Spicy Kick: Add a dash of red pepper flakes to the marinade for a sweet-and-spicy combination.
- Herbs Galore: Toss in some fresh rosemary or thyme for an herbal twist that complements the citrus.
- Vegan Option: Substitute tofu for chicken and marinate it the same way. Great for the plant-based folks looking for that sweet-zesty flavor!
How to Make Grilled Orange Honey Chicken
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
If you’re using thick pieces of chicken breast, you’ll want to slice them horizontally to create thinner cutlets. This method helps the chicken cook faster and ensures every bite is as tender and juicy as the last.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
In a large zip-top bag, combine the chicken with the marinade ingredients: coconut aminos, orange juice, honey, ginger, salt, garlic powder, and orange zest. Squeeze out excess air and mix well to coat the chicken evenly. Let it marinate for at least an hour for optimal flavor — overnight is even better!
Step 3: Preheat and Grill
Fire up your grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking, then place the marinated chicken directly on the grill. Cook for 5-7 minutes per side or until the internal temperature hits 165°F. Remove from the grill and allow to rest a few minutes before slicing.
Pro Tips for Making Grilled Orange Honey Chicken
- Perfect Marinade Balance: If you prefer a less sweet flavor, adjust the amount of honey to match your taste.
- Grill Marks Mastery: To achieve beautiful grill marks, avoid moving the chicken too often—let it sit on the grill before flipping.
- Stovetop Adaptation: If grilling isn’t an option, use a stovetop skillet with a bit of olive oil for an equally tasty result.
- Citrus Freshness: For the freshest taste, always use fresh orange juice and zest.
How to Serve Grilled Orange Honey Chicken
Garnishes
Top this Grilled Orange Honey Chicken with freshly chopped parsley or cilantro for a pop of color and herby aroma. A sprinkle of additional orange zest right before serving also enhances the citrus aroma.
Side Dishes
Pair this dish with light sides like a mixed green salad or steamed broccoli to complement its robust flavors. A fluffy jasmine rice or quinoa also makes for a satisfying, earthy accompaniment.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider serving the chicken sliced over a citrus salad for a colorful and refreshing main course. You can also skewer the chicken pieces for a fun and portable party dish that stands out.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Ensure the chicken cools to room temperature before sealing it away to keep it fresh and delicious.
Freezing
Yes, you can freeze the Grilled Orange Honey Chicken! Placed in a well-sealed container or zip-top bag, it can keep for up to three months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat the chicken either in the oven at 350°F or in a skillet with a touch of olive oil until warmed through. Avoid microwaving to prevent drying out the succulent juices.
FAQs
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Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just adjust the grilling time as bone-in chicken may require a bit longer to cook through.
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What if I don’t have a grill?
No worries! Sauté the chicken in a skillet or under a broiler in your oven following the same marinade process.
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Does marinating longer improve the flavor?
Yes, the longer you marinate, the deeper the flavor penetrates the chicken — overnight is ideal, but a few hours will also do wonders.
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Can I substitute lime for the orange?
Sure thing! Lime adds a different citrus profile that pairs beautifully with honey and spices for a unique twist.
Final Thoughts
Grilled Orange Honey Chicken is the flavor-packed dish you didn’t know you needed. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in, it’s sure to impress every palate. Give it a try and let each juicy bite remind you of summer days, even if it’s the middle of winter!
Print
Grilled Orange Honey Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American/Barbecue
Description
This Grilled Orange Honey Chicken recipe combines the bright citrus flavors of orange and the sweetness of honey, perfectly complemented by the smoky aroma from the grill. It’s an easy, flavorful dish that’s great for a quick weeknight dinner or a summer cookout. The tender, juicy chicken is marinated to absorb all the vibrant flavors and then grilled to perfection, making it a healthy and delicious protein option.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 pounds chicken breasts or thighs, boneless and skinless
Marinade
- 1/4 cup coconut aminos or soy sauce
- 1/4 cup orange juice
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Zest from half an orange
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: If using thick chicken breasts, slice them horizontally to create thin cutlets. This helps the chicken cook faster and ensures even browning on all sides.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken and all marinade ingredients into a gallon-sized zip-top bag. Squeeze out any excess air and seal tightly. Spread the marinade evenly by laying the bag flat and gently pressing. Marinate for at least 1 hour, or longer for more flavor, up to overnight.
- Preheat the Grill: Set the grill to medium-high heat and preheat thoroughly to ensure even cooking and a nice smoky flavor.
- Oil and Grill: Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking. Remove the chicken from the marinade and place directly on the grill. Cook each side for 5-7 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Thinner cutlets may need less time. Let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- You can sauté the marinated chicken on the stovetop by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat and cooking each side for approximately 5 minutes or until cooked through.
- Marinating overnight enhances flavor and tenderness.
- Serve with orange slices or garnish with chopped parsley or cilantro for added zest.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 210 kcal
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
