If you’re looking to add a burst of flavor to your chicken dishes, this Quick & Easy Triple Citrus Chicken Marinade is a must-try. With a zesty blend of lime, lemon, and orange, this marinade infuses the chicken with a refreshing citrus twist. Perfect for grilling or baking, it’s a delightful way to elevate your meal with minimal effort.
Steps
- Combine all ingredients, except the chicken, in a mixing bowl and whisk until everything is thoroughly mixed.
- Place the chicken into a large resealable plastic bag or a non-reactive dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it is well-coated.
- Refrigerate the marinated chicken for at least one hour, but no longer than six hours, to allow the flavors to infuse.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and grill until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit, flipping halfway through cooking.
- Let the grilled chicken rest for about five minutes before serving. Optionally, garnish with fresh chopped parsley.
Ingredients
- 1 Orange (juice and zest)
- 1 Lemon (juice and zest)
- 1 Lime (juice and zest)
- 1/4 cup Olive oil
- 1 Shallot, finely chopped
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Fresh rosemary, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried rosemary)
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon Honey
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
FAQ
- What types of citrus are used in the Triple Citrus Chicken Marinade?
- The marinade uses a combination of oranges, lemons, and limes to provide a sweet, tart, and tangy flavor profile.
- How long should chicken be marinated in the Triple Citrus Marinade?
- The chicken should be marinated in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour but no longer than 6 hours, as the acidity can make the chicken mushy if left too long.
- What kind of chicken is recommended for this marinade?
- This recipe works well with boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, preferably around 6 oz. for breasts or 4-5 oz. for thighs.
- Can the marinade be prepared in advance?
- No, it is best to prepare the marinade on the day of use since it contains fresh, unpasteurized juice that doesn’t keep well.
- Is it safe to reuse the chicken marinade?
- No, it’s not safe to reuse chicken marinade as it can harbor bacteria. If you need additional marinade, prepare extra separately or set aside some before marinating the chicken.
Tips
- Plan Ahead for Marinating: Ensure you allow the chicken to marinate for at least an hour to absorb the flavors fully, but avoid exceeding six hours to prevent the acidity from making the chicken mushy.
- Check Chicken Doneness with a Thermometer: Always use a digital food thermometer to ensure the chicken is thoroughly cooked. The thickest part should reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Avoid Reusing Marinade: Do not reuse marinade that has been in contact with raw chicken to prevent foodborne illnesses. Instead, set aside a portion of fresh marinade to use as a sauce or double the recipe if you need more.
- Balance the Grill Heat: Preheat your grill to medium-high, but be prepared to reduce the temperature if the chicken begins to brown too quickly, ensuring it cooks evenly without burning.
Equipment
- Digital food thermometer – To ensure the chicken is cooked to the correct internal temperature.
- Gas grill – If you don’t already have one for grilling the marinated chicken.
- Grill brush – For cleaning the grill grates.
- Gallon size resealable bags – For marinating the chicken if you don’t have a suitable dish.
- Citrus zester – To zest the oranges, lemons, and limes if you don’t have one already.
- Stainless steel mixing bowl – A nonreactive bowl for mixing the marinade ingredients.
