Grilled Orange Honey Chicken

Grilled Orange Honey Chicken is a juicy, flavorful dish featuring a sweet and tangy citrus marinade. Infused with fresh orange juice, honey, and a touch of Dijon mustard, this grilled chicken is both vibrant and delicious. Perfect for weeknight dinners, summer BBQs, or meal prep, this easy recipe brings bold flavors with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Juicy and Flavorful – The marinade keeps the chicken tender and packed with citrusy sweetness.
• Quick and Easy – Simple ingredients with minimal prep time make this a hassle-free meal.
• Healthy and Protein-Packed – A nutritious, high-protein dish with wholesome ingredients.
• Versatile – Can be grilled, baked, or cooked on a stovetop.
• Great for Meal Prep – Make extra portions to enjoy throughout the week.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• ½ cup fresh orange juice
• 2 tablespoons orange zest
• ¼ cup honey
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• Orange slices, for garnish

Directions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together the orange juice, orange zest, honey, olive oil, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken in a resealable bag or dish and pour the marinade over it. Seal and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours.
3. Preheat the Grill: Heat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
4. Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade and grill for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
5. Rest and Serve: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve with fresh orange slices for garnish.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Marinating Time: 30 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Calories: 350 kcal per serving

Variations

• Spicy Kick – Add red pepper flakes or sriracha for heat.
• Herb-Infused – Mix in fresh rosemary or thyme for extra flavor.
• Lemon Honey Chicken – Substitute orange juice with lemon juice for a tangier version.
• Orange Chicken Skewers – Cut the chicken into cubes and thread onto skewers before grilling.
• Baked Orange Honey Chicken – Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes instead of grilling.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm in a pan over low heat or microwave in short bursts to prevent drying out.
• Freezing: Freeze marinated raw chicken for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before grilling.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless chicken thighs work well and stay extra juicy. Adjust grilling time as needed.

Can I cook this in the oven?

Yes! Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

How long should I marinate the chicken?

For the best flavor, marinate for at least 30 minutes, but up to 4 hours is ideal.

Can I make the marinade ahead of time?

Yes, store the marinade in the refrigerator for up to 3 days before using.

What should I serve with this dish?

Pair with grilled vegetables, rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Can I use bottled orange juice?

Fresh orange juice is best, but bottled juice works if fresh oranges aren’t available.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free version.

How do I prevent the chicken from sticking to the grill?

Brush the grill grates with oil before cooking, and avoid flipping the chicken too soon.

Can I make this dish in a skillet?

Yes, cook the chicken in a large skillet over medium heat for 5-7 minutes per side.

Can I double the recipe for meal prep?

Absolutely! Double the ingredients and store cooked chicken in meal prep containers.

Conclusion

Grilled Orange Honey Chicken is a flavorful, juicy dish that combines sweet and savory elements for a perfect grilled meal. Whether you’re making it for a summer BBQ or a quick weeknight dinner, this citrus-marinated chicken is sure to impress. Try this easy recipe today and enjoy a delicious, healthy meal!