Elevate your dinner game with this vibrant Grilled Citrus Chicken with Fresh Salsa, a recipe bursting with zesty flavors and fresh, wholesome ingredients. Tender, juicy chicken breasts are marinated in a bright blend of orange and lime juice, honey, garlic, and warm spices like cumin and paprika, then perfectly grilled for a smoky char. Paired with a refreshing homemade salsa made from ripe tomatoes, red onion, cilantro, and a touch of jalapeño heat, this dish is a delightful balance of sweet, tangy, and savory. Ready in under an hour (excluding marination), this healthy, gluten-free meal is perfect for summer cookouts, weeknight dinners, or prepping for a flavorful lunch. Serve it as-is, or pair with a side of rice, tortillas, or a fresh green salad for a complete feast that’s sure to impress.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the orange juice, orange zest, lime juice, lime zest, olive oil, honey, minced garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper to create the marinade.
Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, seal the bag or cover the dish, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or up to 8 hours for more flavor).
While the chicken marinates, prepare the fresh salsa. In a small bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, chopped red onion, cilantro, jalapeño (if using), lime juice, and salt. Mix well and set aside in the refrigerator to chill.
Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off. Discard the marinade.
Grill the chicken for 6-7 minutes per side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and is cooked through.
Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.
Serve the grilled citrus chicken with a generous scoop of fresh salsa on top or on the side. Enjoy!
Calories |
1966 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 70.1 g | 90% | |
| Saturated Fat | 13.6 g | 68% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 4.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 592 mg | 197% | |
| Sodium | 3480 mg | 151% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 111.4 g | 41% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 19.3 g | 69% | |
| Total Sugars | 76.5 g | ||
| Protein | 226.2 g | 452% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.2 mcg | 1% | |
| Calcium | 361 mg | 28% | |
| Iron | 12.7 mg | 71% | |
| Potassium | 3896 mg | 83% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.