Herb And Orange Grilled Chicken

Prep: 15 min Cook: 40 min Serves: 4 Cuisine: American

Herb and orange grilled chicken offers a flavorful combination of citrus and herbs, perfect for summer barbecues and family dinners with a juicy, aromatic profile.

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Ingredients

  • 4 chicken quarters
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp. grated orange peel
  • 1 tsp. salt
  • 1/2 tsp. thyme leaves
  • 1/2 tsp. rosemary
  • 1/2 tsp. pepper
  • 1/2 cup orange juice
  • 2 Tbsp. vinegar

Instructions

  1. In a small bowl, mix together garlic, orange peel, salt, thyme, rosemary, and pepper.
  2. Slip fingers between the skin and flesh of each chicken quarter, leaving the skin attached.
  3. Spread 1/4 of the herb mixture under the skin of each chicken quarter, pulling the skin back over the spices.
  4. Mix together orange juice, vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce.
  5. Place chicken on a prepared grill, skin-side up, about 8 inches from heat.
  6. Cook, turning and basting with the orange juice mixture every 5 minutes, for about 40 minutes, or until a fork can be inserted easily.

Tips & Substitutions

For even more flavor, marinate the chicken quarters in the herb and orange mixture for a few hours or overnight. If you don’t have fresh thyme or rosemary, dried herbs can be used, but reduce the amount to about half. To add a kick, consider incorporating a pinch of red pepper flakes into the herb mixture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the herb and orange grilled chicken alongside a refreshing salad or Cousin Barbie'S Potatoes for a delightful meal. A side of grilled vegetables or rice will complement the citrus flavors beautifully. For a complete dinner, consider pairing with a glass of chilled white wine.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. This method helps maintain the chicken’s moisture and flavor.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Herb And Orange Grilled Chicken contains roughly 105 calories, with 1g protein, 21g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is a good source of iron (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1966mg per serving (85% of the Daily Value).

105 kcal 5% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 0.6g 1% DV
Total Fat 0.2g
Carbs 20.7g 8% DV
Fiber 0.3g 1% DV
Sugar 16.6g 33% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1966.1mg 85% DV
Potassium 249.5mg 5% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 4.4mcg
Vitamin C 4.5mg 5% DV
Calcium 51mg 4% DV
Iron 1.8mg 10% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal Low-fat

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 boneless chicken instead of quarters?

Yes, boneless chicken breasts or thighs can be used for this recipe. Adjust the cooking time, as boneless cuts will cook faster, typically in about 20-25 minutes on the grill. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safety.

What can I substitute for orange juice?

If you don’t have orange juice, consider using pineapple juice or a mix of lemon and lime juice for a tangy alternative. Both options will vary the flavor but still provide a deliciously zesty finish to the chicken.

Is it necessary to grill the chicken skin-side up?

Grilling skin-side up initially allows the fat to render, keeping the chicken moist and flavorful. If you prefer crispy skin, flip the chicken halfway through cooking, but keep an eye on it to prevent burning.

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).

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