As the sun began to dip below the horizon, casting a golden glow over the backyard, the tantalizing aroma of barbecue filled the air. It was a warm summer evening, perfect for gathering friends and family around the grill. Inspired by the vibrant flavors of the season, I decided to elevate the classic barbecue chicken with a zesty twist, creating a dish that would bring everyone together in a celebration of taste.
This Smoky Citrus Barbecue Glazed Chicken paired with a refreshing Pineapple Salsa is not just a meal; it’s an experience. The sweet and tangy glaze, infused with citrus, dances beautifully with the smoky undertones from the grill. And the salsa? It’s a burst of freshness that complements the richness of the chicken perfectly. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that will surely become a summer favorite!
Ingredients
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup orange juice
– 1/2 cup lime juice
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup fresh pineapple, diced
– 1/4 cup red bell pepper, diced
– 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
– Salt to taste
– Lime wedges for garnish
Instructions
Begin by making the smoky citrus marinade. In a mixing bowl, combine the orange juice, lime juice, honey, soy sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Whisk the ingredients together until the honey is fully dissolved and the mixture is well-combined. This vibrant marinade will not only flavor the chicken but also tenderize it beautifully.
Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Seal the bag or cover the dish and let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or up to overnight for maximum flavor absorption.
While the chicken is marinating, prepare the pineapple salsa. In a medium bowl, combine the diced pineapple, red bell pepper, red onion, and cilantro. Squeeze in a bit of lime juice and season with salt to taste. Mix gently and let the salsa sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Once the chicken has marinated, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess drip off, and discard the leftover marinade. Place the chicken on the grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is fully cooked and has beautiful grill marks. A meat thermometer should read 165°F (75°C) when the chicken is done.
For a finishing touch, brush the chicken with some additional marinade during the last minute of grilling for an extra layer of flavor. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes.
To serve, slice the chicken and arrange it on a platter, generously topping it with the refreshing pineapple salsa. Garnish with lime wedges for a vibrant presentation. This dish not only looks stunning but also invites everyone to dig in and enjoy the delightful combination of smoky, sweet, and tangy flavors. Dinner is served, and it’s a feast that will create lasting memories!