Imagine your taste buds dancing to the symphony of sweet and tangy flavors with a hint of heat. This sticky honey orange grilled chicken recipe promises just that. The marinade, imbued with the freshness of orange and the tangy kick of Dijon mustard, preps the chicken to perfection. The final touch of the honey-orange glaze amplifies the flavors, resulting in a dish that's a delight to the senses.
Most ingredients for this recipe are commonly found in your kitchen. However, you might need to look for a few items such as fresh oranges for orange juice and zest, Dijon mustard, and your favorite hot sauce. When selecting oranges, choose ones that are brightly colored and heavy for their size to ensure the best flavor for your dish.
Sticky Honey Orange Grilled Chicken Ingredients
Orange juice: Enhances the marinade with a fresh and tangy flavor. It's also used in the glaze to balance the sweetness of the honey.
Orange zest: Adds an intense citrus flavor to both the marinade and glaze.
Lemon juice: Its acidity brightens up the marinade.
Olive oil: Helps tenderize the chicken and carries the flavors of the marinade.
Hot sauce: Adds a spicy kick to the marinade.
Dijon mustard: Adds a tangy heat to the marinade and glaze.
Garlic: Enhances the marinade with a robust flavor.
Chicken thighs: The main ingredient that takes up the flavors of the marinade and glaze.
Parsley: Adds a pop of color and slight peppery flavor when used as a garnish.
Butter: Gives the glaze a richer flavor and silky finish.
Honey: Adds a sticky sweetness to the glaze.
BBQ sauce: Adds a smoky depth to the glaze.
One reader, Laurene Reno says:
This sticky honey orange grilled chicken recipe is a game-changer! The combination of sweet and tangy flavors is simply divine. The glaze adds a perfect caramelized finish. It's a hit with my family every time. A must-try for anyone who loves a burst of citrus in their meal!
Key Techniques for Perfecting Sticky Honey Orange Grilled Chicken
How to marinate the chicken: Combine the orange juice, orange zest, lemon juice, olive oil, hot sauce, dijon mustard, and garlic in a bowl. Pour the marinade over the chicken in a resealable bag, press out the air, and refrigerate for 1 to 6 hours.
How to prepare the glaze: Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in honey, orange juice, orange zest, BBQ sauce, and dijon mustard. Set aside a portion for serving.
How to grill the chicken: Preheat the grill to 400°F. Grill the marinated chicken for about 4 minutes per side. Brush with the prepared glaze and continue grilling until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and develops a slight char, about 2 minutes more per side.
How To Make Sticky Honey Orange Grilled Chicken
With its distinct blend of tangy, sweet, and smoky flavors, this orange grilled chicken is sure to leave you wanting more and is even ready in half an hour.
Serves:
Ingredients
- ½cupfresh orange juice
- 1tbsporange zest
- 1½tbspfresh lemon juice
- ¼cupolive oil
- 2tbsphot sauce
- 2tbspdijon mustard
- 2clovesgarlic,minced
- 3½lbsboneless chicken thighs,trimmed of excess fat
- 1tspparsley,chopped, for garnish, optional
For Glaze:
- 2tbspbutter
- ¼cuphoney
- ¼cupfresh orange juice
- 2tsporange zest
- ¼cupbbq sauce
- 2tbspdijon mustard
Instructions
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In a medium mixing bowl whisk together orange juice, orange zest, lemon juice, olive oil, hot sauce, dijon mustard and garlic.
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Place chicken thighs in a gallon size resealable bag, pour marinade over chicken then seal bag while pressing out excess air.
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Rub marinade over chicken, transfer to refrigerator and let marinate for 1 to 6 hours.
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Preheat a grill over medium-high heat to about 400 degrees F.
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While grill is preheating, prepare glaze. In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
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Whisk in honey, orange juice, orange zest, BBQ sauce and dijon mustard and remove from heat. Set aside about ⅓ cup for serving.
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Grill chicken about 4 minutes per side then brush with glaze and grill until cooked through (165 degrees F in center) and slightly charred. This will take about 2 minutes more per side.
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Serve warm with reserved glaze, and garnished with parsley if desired.
Nutrition
- Calories: 674.06kcal
- Fat: 49.12g
- Saturated Fat: 13.44g
- Trans Fat: 0.33g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 22.44g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 8.90g
- Carbohydrates: 18.94g
- Fiber: 0.72g
- Sugar: 15.80g
- Protein: 38.25g
- Cholesterol: 230.98mg
- Sodium: 494.93mg
- Calcium: 34.17mg
- Potassium: 576.99mg
- Iron: 1.96mg
- Vitamin A: 85.51µg
- Vitamin C: 20.16mg
Expert Advice for Mastering Sticky Honey Orange Grilled Chicken
When grilling chicken, it's important to keep the grill at a consistent temperature to ensure even cooking. Too high heat can cause the outside to burn before the inside is fully cooked. Using a meat thermometer can help you accurately gauge when the chicken is done. Also, brushing the glaze on the chicken towards the end of the cooking process prevents it from burning, as the sugars in the glaze can caramelize quickly.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Grilled Chicken Recipe
Marinate efficiently: Use a resealable plastic bag to marinate the chicken. This allows for even distribution of the marinade and easy cleanup.
Prep ahead: Prepare the glaze and marinade the chicken the night before. This will allow the flavors to meld and make the cooking process quicker the next day.
Grill in batches: If you have a large batch of chicken, grill them in batches to ensure even cooking and to prevent overcrowding on the grill.
Use a meat thermometer: Invest in a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked through without overcooking, saving time and ensuring juicy, flavorful results.
Organize ingredients: Before starting, organize all the ingredients and utensils needed for the recipe to streamline the cooking process.
Substitute Ingredients For Sticky Honey Orange Grilled Chicken Recipe
fresh orange juice - Substitute with fresh tangerine juice: Tangerine juice has a similar citrusy flavor and acidity, which can work well as a substitute for orange juice in this recipe.
orange zest - Substitute with lemon zest: Lemon zest can provide a similar citrusy aroma and flavor to the dish, complementing the other ingredients in the marinade.
fresh lemon juice - Substitute with lime juice: Lime juice can offer a tangy and citrusy flavor similar to lemon juice, adding a refreshing twist to the marinade.
olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a mild flavor and high smoke point, making it a suitable substitute for olive oil in this grilled chicken recipe.
hot sauce - Substitute with sriracha: Sriracha can provide a similar level of heat and tanginess to the marinade, adding a spicy kick to the grilled chicken.
dijon mustard - Substitute with whole grain mustard: Whole grain mustard can offer a similar tangy flavor with the added texture of mustard seeds, enhancing the complexity of the marinade.
garlic - Substitute with shallots: Shallots can provide a milder, slightly sweet flavor compared to garlic, adding depth to the marinade without overpowering the other ingredients.
boneless chicken thighs - Substitute with boneless chicken breasts: Chicken breasts can be used as a leaner alternative to thighs, and they will absorb the flavors of the marinade effectively during grilling.
parsley - Substitute with cilantro: Cilantro can offer a fresh and herbaceous flavor, complementing the citrusy and tangy elements of the marinade.
butter - Substitute with ghee: Ghee can be used as a clarified butter alternative, providing a rich and nutty flavor to the glaze.
honey - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup can offer a similar level of sweetness and caramelization when grilled, adding a unique flavor profile to the chicken.
bbq sauce - Substitute with hoisin sauce: Hoisin sauce can provide a sweet and savory flavor with a hint of umami, enhancing the depth of the glaze for the grilled chicken.
dijon mustard - Substitute with whole grain mustard: Whole grain mustard can offer a similar tangy flavor with the added texture of mustard seeds, enhancing the complexity of the glaze.
How to Beautifully Present Sticky Honey Orange Grilled Chicken
Elevate the chicken thighs: Arrange the grilled chicken thighs on the plate in a neat and visually appealing manner, ensuring they are the focal point of the dish.
Drizzle the glaze: Using a spoon, carefully drizzle the honey orange glaze over the grilled chicken thighs, creating an enticing and glossy finish.
Garnish with parsley: Sprinkle a delicate amount of freshly chopped parsley over the chicken thighs to add a pop of color and a hint of freshness to the dish.
Incorporate citrus slices: Artfully place thin slices of orange or lemon on the plate to enhance the visual appeal and provide a hint of citrus aroma to the dish.
Add a side of grilled vegetables: Serve the sticky honey orange grilled chicken with a side of vibrant and perfectly grilled vegetables, such as asparagus or zucchini, to complement the flavors and add a touch of elegance to the presentation.
Use a minimalist approach: Embrace a minimalist plating style, allowing the vibrant colors of the dish to shine through and speak for themselves.
Consider the plate shape and color: Choose a plate that complements the vibrant hues of the dish, such as a white or earth-toned plate, and consider the shape to create a visually appealing canvas for the culinary masterpiece.
Create a balanced composition: Ensure that the presentation is balanced, with careful attention to the placement of each element on the plate to create a visually striking and harmonious composition.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Sticky Honey Orange Grilled Chicken
- Grill: A cooking appliance used to cook food over direct heat, typically using gas, charcoal, or electricity.
- Saucepan: A deep cooking pan with a long handle and a lid, used for cooking sauces, boiling liquids, and simmering.
- Resealable bag: A plastic bag with a seal that can be opened and closed multiple times, commonly used for marinating and storing food.
- Gallon size resealable bag: A larger resealable bag with a capacity of approximately one gallon, often used for marinating larger quantities of food.
- Small saucepan: A smaller version of a saucepan, typically used for heating or cooking smaller amounts of food or sauces.
Proper Storage and Freezing Methods for Grilled Chicken
Let the grilled chicken cool to room temperature before storing it in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. This will prevent condensation from forming and keep the chicken fresher for longer.
Store the cooled chicken in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Make sure to place it in the coldest part of the fridge, usually the back of the bottom shelf.
If you want to freeze the grilled chicken, wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This will prevent freezer burn and make it easier to thaw only the amount you need.
Place the wrapped chicken pieces in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. Squeeze out as much air as possible before sealing to prevent ice crystals from forming.
Label the container or bag with the date and contents, so you can easily keep track of how long the chicken has been frozen.
Freeze the grilled chicken for up to 3 months. When you're ready to eat it, thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight or in the microwave on the defrost setting.
To reheat the grilled chicken, place it in a baking dish and cover with foil. Bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat the chicken on the grill or in a skillet over medium heat.
If you have any leftover glaze, store it in a separate airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Reheat the glaze in the microwave or on the stovetop before brushing it over the reheated chicken.
The Best Methods for Reheating Leftover Grilled Chicken
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover chicken on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil or parchment paper. Cover the chicken loosely with another piece of foil to prevent it from drying out. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through.
For a quicker option, use the microwave. Place the leftover chicken on a microwave-safe plate and cover it with a damp paper towel. This will help keep the chicken moist. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through. The exact time will depend on the amount of chicken and the power of your microwave.
If you have an air fryer, you can use it to reheat your leftover sticky honey orange grilled chicken. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken in the air fryer basket, making sure the pieces are not overlapping. Cook for 3-5 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through and the skin is crispy.
For a stovetop method, place the leftover chicken in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water, chicken broth, or orange juice to the pan to help keep the chicken moist. Cover the skillet with a lid and heat for 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through. If the glaze has become too thick, you can add a little more liquid to the pan to thin it out.
If you have a grill fired up, you can also reheat your leftover chicken on the grill. Preheat the grill to medium heat. Place the chicken on the grill and brush with some reserved glaze or a little orange juice. Grill for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the chicken is heated through and the glaze is bubbling.
Fascinating Trivia About Sticky Honey Orange Grilled Chicken
The sticky honey orange grilled chicken recipe is a delicious combination of sweet and tangy flavors, making it a perfect dish for a summer barbecue. It's a great way to add a burst of citrus to your grilled chicken, and the glaze adds a sticky, caramelized finish. This recipe is a crowd-pleaser and can be easily customized with different levels of heat by adjusting the amount of hot sauce used. It's a fantastic option for a family dinner or a gathering with friends. The marinade and glaze can also be used for other proteins such as pork or tofu, offering versatility in your cooking.
Budgeting for Home-Cooked Sticky Honey Orange Grilled Chicken
This sticky honey orange grilled chicken recipe is relatively cost-effective for a household. The ingredients, such as chicken thighs, orange juice, and honey, are commonly found and reasonably priced. The versatility of the dish also adds value, as it can be served with various sides. The approximate cost for a household of four people is around $20-25, making it an affordable and delicious option. Overall, I would rate this recipe an 8 for its balance of cost, flavor, and ease of preparation.
Is This Grilled Chicken Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?
This recipe for sticky honey orange grilled chicken has both healthy and unhealthy aspects. On the positive side, it uses lean protein in the form of boneless chicken thighs, which are a good source of essential amino acids and relatively low in saturated fat compared to other cuts of chicken. The marinade and glaze also include some nutritious ingredients like fresh orange juice, lemon juice, garlic, and dijon mustard, which provide vitamin C, antioxidants, and beneficial compounds like allicin.
However, the recipe also contains some less healthy components. The glaze includes butter, honey, and BBQ sauce, which can add significant amounts of saturated fat, sugar, and sodium to the dish. The hot sauce in the marinade may also contribute additional sodium. While the olive oil in the marinade is a healthier fat option, the overall fat content of the dish may be higher than ideal for a balanced meal.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:
- Reduce the amount of butter in the glaze or replace it with a healthier alternative like olive oil or coconut oil
- Use a low-sodium BBQ sauce or make your own with less added sugar and salt
- Decrease the amount of honey in the glaze or substitute it with a natural, low-calorie sweetener like stevia or monk fruit extract
- Serve the chicken with a side of fresh, non-starchy vegetables to balance out the meal and add more fiber and nutrients
- Opt for a whole grain or legume-based side dish instead of refined carbohydrates like white rice or bread
By making these adjustments, you can enjoy the delicious flavors of this grilled chicken recipe while also supporting your overall health and well-being.
Our Editor's Honest Opinion on Sticky Honey Orange Grilled Chicken
The combination of citrus and honey in this grilled chicken recipe creates a delightful balance of sweet and tangy flavors. The marinade infuses the chicken with a burst of citrusy goodness, while the glaze adds a sticky, caramelized finish. The grilling process enhances the smoky charred notes, elevating the overall taste. The use of hot sauce and Dijon mustard adds a subtle kick, complementing the sweetness of the honey and orange. This dish is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, making it a delightful addition to any summer barbecue or gathering.
Enhance Your Sticky Honey Orange Grilled Chicken Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
Delicious Alternatives to Sticky Honey Orange Grilled Chicken
Ideal Appetizer and Dessert Combinations for Sticky Honey Orange Grilled Chicken
Why trust this Sticky Honey Orange Grilled Chicken Recipe:
This sticky honey orange grilled chicken recipe is a tantalizing blend of flavors that will elevate your grilling game. The marinade, featuring fresh orange juice, orange zest, and lemon juice, infuses the chicken thighs with vibrant citrus notes. The glaze, made with butter, honey, and a touch of bbq sauce, adds a luscious caramelized finish. With the perfect balance of sweet and tangy, this recipe promises to deliver a succulent and flavorful dish that will impress your guests and elevate any gathering.
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