Orange Barbecue Grilled Chicken Recipe

Delight your taste buds with this Orange Barbecue Grilled Chicken Recipe! This dish is not only easy to prepare but also bursting with bright orange flavor, a hint of ginger, and the sweetness of pineapple juice. It’s perfect for family gatherings, summer barbecues, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests with something unique and delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 10 minutes of prep time, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of orange zest, ginger, and pineapple creates a mouthwatering sauce that elevates grilled chicken.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it with grilled pineapple for a tropical twist or pair it with rice or salad for a complete meal.
• Crowd-Pleaser: This dish appeals to both kids and adults alike, making it an ideal choice for gatherings.
• Healthy Choice: Packed with protein and low in fat, this recipe fits well into a balanced diet.

Tools and Preparation

Before you get started on this flavorful chicken dish, gather your tools to make the cooking process seamless.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Tongs
• Mixing bowl
• Basting brush
• Paper towels

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Essential for achieving that perfect char and smoky flavor on the chicken.
• Tongs: Great for handling hot chicken without burning your hands while ensuring even grilling.
• Mixing bowl: Useful for combining all the sauce ingredients efficiently.
• Basting brush: Helps in applying the barbecue sauce evenly over the chicken while it cooks.

Ingredients

Ingredients:
– 6 boneless (skinless chicken breasts)
– 1 can (20 oz) pineapple slices in 100% juice (drained, juice reserved)
– 1 cup prepared barbecue sauce
– 2 teaspoons orange zest
– 2 teaspoons fresh ginger (peeled and grated)
– ½ cup reserved pineapple juice
– 1 tablespoon dark brown sugar (optional)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Orange Barbecue Grilled Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

Stir together the barbecue sauce, orange zest, grated ginger, ½ cup of reserved pineapple juice, and brown sugar if using. Set aside half of this sauce for serving later.

Step 2: Prepare the Grill

Dip folded paper towels in cooking oil. Use tongs to hold the oiled paper towels and clean the grill grates. Preheat the grill to 350° – 400°F.

Step 3: Grill the Chicken

Sear the chicken breasts over a hot grill while basting them with half of the prepared barbecue sauce. Cook until juices run clear and chicken is cooked through, about 8 to 10 minutes on each side.

Step 4: Grill the Pineapple

Oil the grill grates again using oiled paper towels. Place the drained pineapple slices on the grill and cook until lightly charred.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve your grilled chicken with one or two slices of grilled pineapple. Pass around the remaining barbecue sauce for dipping or drizzling over each serving.

How to Serve Orange Barbecue Grilled Chicken Recipe

Serving your Orange Barbecue Grilled Chicken is as enjoyable as preparing it. The vibrant flavors of orange and pineapple make it a delightful dish that pairs well with various sides and garnishes.

Add Fresh Herbs

• Chopped cilantro: This adds a fresh, zesty flavor that complements the sweetness of the sauce.
• Green onions: Sliced green onions bring a mild onion flavor and a pop of color to your plate.

Pair with Fresh Salads

• Cucumber salad: A refreshing cucumber salad offers a cool crunch that balances the grilled chicken’s richness.
• Coleslaw: Creamy coleslaw provides a tangy contrast and enhances the overall meal experience.

Include Grilled Fruits

• Grilled peaches: The sweetness of grilled peaches pairs perfectly with the orange flavors in the chicken.
• Watermelon slices: Lightly grilled watermelon adds a juicy, refreshing element to your meal.

How to Perfect Orange Barbecue Grilled Chicken Recipe

To achieve the best results with your Orange Barbecue Grilled Chicken, consider these helpful tips for enhancing flavor and texture.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh ginger and orange zest maximize flavor, making your dish more vibrant.
• Marinate longer: For deeper flavors, marinate chicken in the barbecue sauce for at least an hour before grilling.
• Monitor grill temperature: Keeping the grill between 350° – 400°F ensures even cooking without drying out the chicken.
• Let it rest: Allowing the chicken to rest for a few minutes after grilling helps retain juices for a tender bite.
• Experiment with spices: Add extra spices like paprika or chili powder to the marinade for an added kick.
• Serve immediately: Enjoying the chicken right off the grill highlights its juicy tenderness.

Best Side Dishes for Orange Barbecue Grilled Chicken Recipe

Pairing delicious sides with your Orange Barbecue Grilled Chicken elevates your meal. Here are some great options that complement its flavors beautifully.

1. Rice Pilaf: A fragrant rice pilaf cooked with herbs makes an excellent base for soaking up barbecue sauce.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Colorful roasted vegetables add nutrition and texture, balancing out the sweetness of the chicken.
3. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn, either grilled or boiled, brings a summery touch that pairs well with barbecue dishes.
4. Baked Potatoes: Fluffy baked potatoes offer a hearty side that can be dressed up with toppings like sour cream or cheese.
5. Quinoa Salad: A protein-packed quinoa salad with veggies can provide a healthy contrast to rich barbecue flavors.
6. Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread is perfect for sopping up extra barbecue sauce and adds another layer of flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing your Orange Barbecue Grilled Chicken Recipe, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Not marinating enough: Failing to let the chicken sit in the marinade can lead to bland flavor. Aim for at least 30 minutes for the best taste.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking chicken too long can dry it out. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F without drying out.
• Skipping the oiling step: Forgetting to oil the grill can cause sticking and tearing of the chicken. Always oil your grill grates before cooking.
• Using too much BBQ sauce during grilling: Slathering on too much sauce while cooking can create a burnt exterior. Apply sauce in moderation and save some for serving.
• Ignoring resting time: Cutting into the chicken right away can let juices escape. Allow it to rest for a few minutes after grilling for juicier meat.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Orange Barbecue Grilled Chicken Recipe

• Place cooled chicken in freezer-safe bags or containers.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Orange Barbecue Grilled Chicken Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and place chicken on a baking sheet. Heat until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate. Cover with a damp paper towel and heat in short intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat in a non-stick skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of water or reserved pineapple juice, covered until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this Orange Barbecue Grilled Chicken Recipe unique?

This recipe combines orange zest and fresh ginger with barbecue sauce, giving it a refreshing twist that stands out from traditional grilled chicken recipes.

Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

Yes, but thaw them completely before marinating and grilling for even cooking.

How spicy is this Orange Barbecue Grilled Chicken Recipe?

This recipe is not spicy; it features sweet and tangy flavors from orange and pineapple. You can add chili flakes if you prefer some heat.

What side dishes pair well with this grilled chicken?

Serve with rice, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal that complements the bright flavors of the dish.

Can I customize the barbecue sauce?

Absolutely! Feel free to use homemade barbecue sauce or any store-bought variety that you love.

Final Thoughts

The Orange Barbecue Grilled Chicken Recipe is not only delicious but also versatile, allowing you to customize flavors easily. Whether served at a summer barbecue or as a quick weeknight dinner, this dish will impress anyone who tries it. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different marinades or sides to make it your own!

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Orange Barbecue Grilled Chicken Recipe

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• Author: Alexia
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Savor the vibrant flavors of our Orange Barbecue Grilled Chicken, a delightful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. This recipe combines succulent chicken breasts with a zesty barbecue sauce made from fresh orange zest, ginger, and sweet pineapple juice. It’s simple to prepare and ideal for summer barbecues or family dinners. In just 10 minutes of prep time, you can create an impressive meal that pleases both kids and adults alike. Serve it alongside grilled pineapple for a refreshing touch or pair it with rice or salads for a complete feast. This healthy dish is packed with protein and low in fat, ensuring you can indulge without guilt.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 6 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 can (20 oz) pineapple slices in 100% juice (drained, juice reserved)
• 1 cup prepared barbecue sauce
• 2 teaspoons orange zest
• 2 teaspoons fresh ginger (peeled and grated)
• ½ cup reserved pineapple juice
• 1 tablespoon dark brown sugar (optional)

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Instructions

1. In a mixing bowl, combine barbecue sauce, orange zest, grated ginger, reserved pineapple juice, and brown sugar (if using). Set aside half for serving.
2. Preheat the grill to 350°F – 400°F and oil the grates using oiled paper towels held with tongs.
3. Grill chicken breasts for about 8-10 minutes per side, basting with barbecue sauce until fully cooked.
4. Grill pineapple slices until lightly charred.
5. Serve grilled chicken with pineapple slices and remaining barbecue sauce.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 chicken breast (150g)
• Calories: 290
• Sugar: 12g
• Sodium: 560mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 23g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 35g
• Cholesterol: 90mg