Orange Barbecue Grilled Chicken Recipe

Delight your taste buds with this Orange Barbecue Grilled Chicken Recipe! This dish is perfect for summer barbecues, weekend dinners, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests. The unique combination of orange flavor, ginger, and pineapple juice creates a mouthwatering sauce that takes grilled chicken to the next level. It’s quick to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With only 10 minutes of prep time, you can have this delicious meal ready in no time.
• Unique Flavor Profile: The blend of orange zest and ginger adds a refreshing twist to traditional barbecue chicken.
• Versatile Meal: Perfect as a main dish for family dinners or as a crowd-pleaser at barbecues and potlucks.
• Healthier Option: Using lean chicken breasts keeps this dish low in fat while still being flavorful.
• Grilled Perfection: The grilling process gives the chicken a smoky flavor that is hard to resist.

Tools and Preparation

To make the Orange Barbecue Grilled Chicken, you’ll need a few essential tools. These will help streamline your cooking process and ensure great results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Provides the high heat needed for perfect searing and flavor development.
• Tongs: Allows you to easily handle hot food without burning your fingers.
• Basting brush: Helps evenly coat the chicken with sauce for maximum flavor.
• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining ingredients before cooking.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 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)

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 with the finished chicken.

Step 2: Preheat the Grill

Dip folded paper towels in cooking oil. Use tongs to hold these oiled paper towels to clean and oil the grill. Preheat your grill to between 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 they are cooked through, about 8 to 10 minutes per side.

Step 4: Grill the Pineapple

Once the chicken is done, oil the grate with those same paper towels. Grill pineapple slices until they are lightly charred.

Step 5: Serve

Serve your grilled chicken alongside a slice or two of grilled pineapple. Pass along any remaining barbecue sauce for extra flavor when serving. Enjoy!

How to Serve Orange Barbecue Grilled Chicken Recipe

Serving your Orange Barbecue Grilled Chicken can elevate your meal experience. The combination of flavors and textures pairs wonderfully with various sides and garnishes, making each bite memorable.

With Grilled Pineapple

• Enjoy the grilled chicken alongside charred pineapple slices for a sweet and savory contrast that enhances the dish.

Over a Bed of Rice

• Serve the chicken on a bed of fluffy white or brown rice, allowing the barbecue sauce to soak in for added flavor.

With Fresh Salad

• Pair with a crisp green salad tossed with citrus vinaigrette to balance the richness of the chicken.

In Tacos

• Shred the grilled chicken and serve it in soft tortillas topped with fresh cilantro, diced onions, and a squeeze of lime.

With Coleslaw

• The crunchy texture of coleslaw complements the juicy chicken, adding freshness to each bite.

How to Perfect Orange Barbecue Grilled Chicken Recipe

Perfecting your Orange Barbecue Grilled Chicken involves paying attention to details that enhance flavor and texture. Here are some helpful tips:

• Marinate for Flavor: Letting the chicken marinate in half of the sauce for at least 30 minutes before grilling intensifies the flavor.

• Use a Meat Thermometer: Ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safe eating and optimal juiciness.

• Don’t Overcrowd the Grill: Space out the chicken breasts on the grill so they cook evenly without steaming each other.

• Baste While Grilling: Brush additional sauce on the chicken while grilling to build layers of flavor without drying it out.

• Rest Before Serving: Allowing the grilled chicken to rest for a few minutes helps retain its juices, making it more tender.

Best Side Dishes for Orange Barbecue Grilled Chicken Recipe

Choosing side dishes that complement your Orange Barbecue Grilled Chicken can enhance your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide a comforting base that pairs well with barbecue flavors.

2. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn, either grilled or boiled, adds brightness and crunch that contrasts nicely with the savory chicken.

3. Baked Beans: A hearty serving of baked beans offers a sweet, smoky taste that complements grilled dishes beautifully.

4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized bring color and nutrients to your plate while enhancing flavors.

5. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with fresh herbs and citrus dressing adds a refreshing touch alongside rich barbecue chicken.

6. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with spices make for a comforting side that everyone loves.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making the perfect Orange Barbecue Grilled Chicken requires a few careful steps. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• sauce choice: Using a barbecue sauce that is too sweet can overpower the orange flavor. Opt for a balanced sauce that complements the citrus notes.
• undercooking chicken: Failing to cook chicken thoroughly can lead to food safety issues. Always check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safe consumption.
• neglecting marination time: Not allowing enough time for the chicken to marinate in the sauce can leave out essential flavors. Aim for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for best results.
• overcooking pineapple: Grilling pineapple slices too long can result in mushiness. Keep an eye on them and remove once they are lightly charred.
• skipping oiling the grill: Forgetting to oil your grill grate can cause sticking, making it hard to turn or remove the chicken. Always oil your grill before cooking.
• ignoring resting time: Cutting into the chicken immediately after grilling can let juices escape. Allow it to rest for a few minutes before slicing.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Orange Barbecue Grilled Chicken Recipe

• Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in freezer bags.
• Frozen chicken is best used within 2-3 months for optimal flavor.

Reheating Orange Barbecue Grilled Chicken Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat for 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in short bursts of 30 seconds until heated evenly.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of water or broth, and cover. Cook until warmed through, about 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the Orange Barbecue Grilled Chicken Recipe:

Can I use other fruits instead of pineapple?

Yes! Mango or peaches would also add delicious sweetness when grilled alongside the chicken.

What can I serve with Orange Barbecue Grilled Chicken?

Pair this dish with coleslaw, grilled vegetables, or rice for a complete meal.

How long does it take to grill this chicken?

The grilling time is about 16-20 minutes total, depending on thickness.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken ahead of time and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to grill.

Final Thoughts

The Orange Barbecue Grilled Chicken Recipe is not only flavorful but also versatile. Its bright citrus notes combined with hints of ginger create a memorable dish that can be enjoyed year-round. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite spices or serving it alongside different sides!