Description
These Spring Citrus BBQ Chicken Thighs are bursting with zesty, smoky flavor. Juicy chicken thighs are marinated in a citrusy BBQ sauce featuring fresh orange and lemon juice, then grilled or baked to perfection. It’s a vibrant, tangy dish that brings a sunny twist to your spring cookouts.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Juice and zest of 1 orange
- Juice and zest of 1 lemon
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Optional: fresh herbs for garnish (like cilantro or parsley)
Instructions
- In a bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce, citrus juices and zest, honey, garlic, and paprika.
- Pat chicken thighs dry and season with salt and pepper. Place in a dish or zip-top bag and pour in the marinade. Let sit for at least 30 minutes (up to overnight).
- Preheat grill or oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Grill chicken thighs for about 6–7 minutes per side, or bake in the oven for 35–40 minutes, until cooked through and caramelized.
- Brush with extra marinade during the last few minutes of cooking. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Notes
- You can substitute boneless thighs or chicken breasts if preferred. This marinade also works great on pork chops or tofu for a vegetarian version.
Nutrition
- Calories: 340
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 390mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 30g
