Spring Citrus BBQ Chicken Thighs

Short Description

Spring Citrus BBQ Chicken Thighs are a flavorful celebration of warm weather cooking. This dish features juicy, tender chicken thighs marinated in a tangy blend of citrus juices and spices, then grilled and glazed with a citrus-kissed barbecue sauce. It’s a refreshing twist on classic BBQ, perfect for outdoor meals or a light yet satisfying dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bright, zesty citrus flavors that enhance the smoky BBQ profile
• Juicy and tender chicken with every bite
• Easy to prepare and ideal for grilling season
• Perfect for family meals, gatherings, or meal prepping
• Versatile – can be made with other cuts or adapted for indoor cooking

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
• Lemon juice
• Orange juice
• Lime juice
• Garlic powder
• Smoked paprika
• Apple cider vinegar
• Hot honey or regular honey
• Barbecue sauce
• Salt and pepper
• Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)

Directions

1. Season the Chicken: In a bowl, mix garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture evenly onto the chicken thighs.
2. Marinate: Combine lemon juice, orange juice, lime juice, apple cider vinegar, and honey. Pour over chicken and marinate for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
3. Preheat Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high.
4. Grill the Chicken: Remove chicken from marinade. Grill for about 6–7 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
5. Glaze with BBQ Sauce: In the last few minutes of grilling, brush barbecue sauce onto the chicken and allow it to caramelize slightly.
6. Garnish and Serve: Remove from grill, sprinkle with sesame seeds if using, and serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Marinating Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour

Variations

• Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne or red chili flakes to the marinade.
• Use Different Citrus: Try grapefruit or tangerine juice for a unique flavor twist.
• Add Fresh Herbs: Mix in fresh thyme or rosemary for a fragrant herbal note.
• Bake Instead: Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 25–30 minutes if grilling isn’t an option.
• Use Other Chicken Cuts: This marinade works well with drumsticks, wings, or even chicken breasts.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10–15 minutes or microwave on medium power for 2–3 minutes until heated through.
• Freezing: Marinated raw chicken can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw before cooking.

FAQs

What’s the best type of citrus to use for this recipe?

A mix of lemon, lime, and orange juice provides the best balance of sweet and tangy flavor.

Can I use bone-in chicken thighs?

Yes, bone-in thighs work well. Just increase the grilling time to ensure they cook through.

How long should I marinate the chicken?

At least 30 minutes is recommended, but for more flavor, marinate up to 12 hours.

Can I make this dish in the oven?

Absolutely. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 25–30 minutes, basting with BBQ sauce during the last 5–10 minutes.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

It can be if you use a gluten-free barbecue sauce.

What sides go well with this dish?

Grilled vegetables, rice, couscous, or a crisp green salad are excellent pairings.

How do I keep the chicken from drying out on the grill?

Avoid overcooking and grill over medium heat. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness at 165°F (74°C).

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, simply scale the ingredients accordingly and grill in batches if needed.

What’s the difference between hot honey and regular honey?

Hot honey includes chili for a spicy kick, while regular honey is sweet and mild. Choose based on your spice preference.

Can I serve this cold?

Yes, it’s delicious cold and works well sliced over salads or in sandwiches.

Conclusion

Spring Citrus BBQ Chicken Thighs bring a fresh and vibrant flavor to the table. Whether grilled outdoors or baked indoors, the bright citrus notes paired with smoky barbecue make this dish a standout. It’s simple, adaptable, and always a crowd-pleaser—ideal for casual dinners, meal prepping, or entertaining guests with something light yet satisfying.

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