Grilled Honey Soy Chicken
Juicy grilled chicken breasts infused with a sweet and tangy honey soy marinade, perfect for a flavorful summer BBQ or quick weeknight dinner. Suits chicken lovers and outdoor gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a shallow nonmetallic dish, combine orange juice, soy sauce, honey, lemon pepper seasoning, ginger, and garlic powder; set aside.
- Place chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound until 1/2 inch thick.
- Add the chicken to the marinade, cover, and refrigerate for 4 to 6 hours or overnight.
- Remove chicken from marinade, reserving the marinade.
- Place chicken on an uncovered grill directly on medium hot coals.
- Grill for 10 minutes or until tender and no longer pink, turning once.
- During the last 2 minutes, brush the chicken with the reserved marinade.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, consider marinating the chicken overnight. You can substitute the orange juice with pineapple juice for a tropical twist. If you don't have lemon pepper seasoning, a mix of black pepper and lemon zest works well. Ensure the grill is preheated properly to achieve a nice sear. Keep an eye on the chicken to prevent overcooking.
Serving Suggestions
This grilled honey soy chicken pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine rice and a side of stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal. You can also serve it atop a fresh salad for a lighter option. Drizzle some extra marinade over the dish before serving for added flavor. For a refreshing drink, consider serving it alongside Hot Spiced Pineapple-Cranberry Punch.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover grilled honey soy chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a microwave-safe dish and cover it with a damp paper towel to retain moisture, heating in short intervals until warmed through. Alternatively, reheat on a grill for a few minutes to maintain the char.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grilled Honey Soy Chicken contains roughly 329 calories, with 3g protein, 86g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 808mg per serving (35% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen chicken breast for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breast, but it’s best to thaw it completely before marinating. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight or use the defrost setting on your microwave. This will ensure even marination and cooking.
What can I use instead of honey if I want a vegan option?
For a vegan alternative, you can replace honey with maple syrup or agave nectar in equal amounts. Both will provide a similar sweetness and help create a nice glaze on the chicken.
How can I tell when the chicken is done cooking?
The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and is no longer pink in the center. You can use a meat thermometer to check for accuracy. If you don't have one, cut into the thickest part to ensure it's cooked through.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).