Citrus Dijon Grilled Chicken (Marinade)
User Reviews
5
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Prep Time
5 mins
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Cook Time
15 mins
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Additional Time
1 hr
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Total Time
1 hr 20 mins
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Servings
4 servings
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Calories
378 kcal
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Course
Main Course
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Cuisine
American
Citrus Dijon Grilled Chicken (Marinade)
Description
This recipe marinates chicken breasts in a mixture that combines olive oil, Dijon mustard, and citrus juices from lime, lemon, and orange, giving the chicken a balanced acidity with subtle sweetness. The marinade is complemented by garlic powder, Italian herbs or Herbs de Provence, thyme, oregano, salt, and a touch of crushed red pepper flakes for mild heat. The chicken is grilled over medium heat, with reserved marinade brushed on during cooking to enhance flavor and moisture.
The citrus juice tenderizes the chicken while the Dijon mustard adds slight pungency. Grilling adds a smoky flavor and pleasant grill marks, resulting in a moist and flavorful main dish suitable for serving alongside fresh herbs and extra citrus wedges for squeezing.
For best results, marinate the chicken for at least one hour, though up to 12 hours is acceptable. Herb blends can be easily made at home, and substituting citrus fruits if necessary is possible without losing the dish's character. Doubling garlic or red pepper flakes can increase flavor intensity.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breast boneless skinless
Marinade
- ½ cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- lime juice of 1
- lemon juice of 1
- orange juice juice of 2 oranges
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning or Herbs de Provence (see note)
- 1 teaspoon thyme finely chopped (or additional 1/4 teaspoon dried herbs, fresh
- 1 teaspoon oregano finely chopped (or additional 1/4 teaspoon dried herbs, fresh
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes crushed
Instructions
- Combine all marinade ingredients and whisk vigorously to combine (or combine in a jar, cover and shake well). Reserve 1/4 cup of the marinade and set aside for later.
- In a bowl or large zip-close bag, combine chicken and marinade (excluding reserved portion) and toss to coat well. Chill 1 hour or up to overnight.
- When ready to cook, preheat grill to medium and oil the grates. Use tongs or a fork to place chicken on the grill. Cook 5-7 minutes, then turn and brush half of the reserved marinade on the tops of all the chicken.
- Cook 5-7 minutes, then turn and brush half of the reserved marinade on the tops of all the chicken. Cook about 5 minutes longer, then turn and brush remaining marinade over the chicken. Cook 2-4 minutes longer or until chicken is cooked through and juices run clear.
- Serve immediately, garnish with fresh herbs and lemon, lime, and/or orange wedges for squeezing. Enjoy!
Notes
- Marinate chicken for at least 1 hour for good flavor; up to 12 hours is ideal.
- Homemade herb blends can replace Italian seasoning—combine dried thyme, parsley, oregano, and basil.
- Use any combination of citrus juices available—lemon, lime, or orange all work well.
- Increase garlic or crushed red pepper flakes for bolder taste.
- Grill chicken over medium heat, brushing with reserved marinade during cooking for moisture and flavor.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 4servings
Amount Per Serving
Calories 378 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 378kcal | 19% |
| Carbohydrates | 2g | 1% |
| Protein | 25g | 50% |
| Fat | 30g | 46% |
| Saturated Fat | 4g | 20% |
| Cholesterol | 72mg | 24% |
| Sodium | 800mg | 33% |
| Potassium | 437mg | 9% |
| Fiber | 1g | 4% |
| Sugar | 1g | 2% |
| Vitamin A | 95IU | 2% |
| Vitamin C | 2mg | 2% |
| Calcium | 26mg | 3% |
| Iron | 1mg | 6% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.