Ingredients
Scale
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1/2 cup raw honey
- 1/3 cup fresh orange juice
- 1 teaspoon orange zest
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Step 1: Combine the marinade ingredients (honey, orange juice, orange zest, garlic, soy sauce, and olive oil) in a bowl. Whisk until thoroughly mixed. Reserve half (about 1/2 cup) of the mixture in a separate bowl to use later as a basting glaze.
- Step 2: Place the chicken pieces into a large zip-top bag or shallow dish. Pour the remaining marinade over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are coated. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours.
- Step 3: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375°F to 450°F). Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking. Remove the chicken from the marinade, discarding the liquid used for marinating.
- Step 4: Place the chicken on the hot grill. Cook for 6-8 minutes per side, depending on thickness, flipping once. During the last 3-4 minutes of cooking, frequently brush the chicken with the reserved orange-honey glaze.
- Step 5: Continue grilling until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest on a cutting board, lightly tented with foil, for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Leftovers store well for 3 days; for best moisture retention, lightly brush any remaining reserved glaze over the cooked chicken before refrigerating.
- Reheat leftovers gently in a 325°F oven wrapped loosely in foil, as the high sugar content of the glaze can quickly scorch if microwaved.
- This citrus chicken pairs beautifully with a simple coconut-lime rice or a fresh arugula salad topped with toasted almonds.
- Since the marinade contains acid (OJ) and sugar (honey), do not marinate the chicken longer than 4 hours, or the meat fibers may break down and become rubbery during grilling.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American