Lemon-Lime Chicken
Tender grilled chicken breasts infused with zesty lemon and lime flavors, balanced by sweet brown sugar and tangy vinegar—perfect for summer barbecues or lively family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place chicken in a shallow glass dish.
- Combine brown sugar, cider vinegar, lemon juice, lime juice, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, pepper, and salt; pour over chicken.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to marinate.
- Drain chicken, discarding marinade.
- Grill chicken over medium-hot coals, turning once, until juices run clear, about 15-18 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the marinade. If you prefer a sweeter taste, you can substitute honey for the brown sugar. If grilling isn’t an option, baking the chicken at 375°F for 25-30 minutes can yield juicy results. Remember to let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking for better juiciness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Lemon-Lime Chicken with a side of Garden Rice for a refreshing complement to the citrus flavors. Grilled vegetables or a light salad would also pair wonderfully. For an extra touch, drizzle with a bit of extra lemon or lime juice before serving. This dish is perfect for summer gatherings, and it can even be served cold in wraps or salads.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Lemon-Lime Chicken 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 it in short intervals until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat it gently in a skillet over medium heat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lemon-Lime Chicken contains roughly 99 calories, with 3g protein, 22g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (94% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. It also contributes 4g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 other types of chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use chicken thighs or drumsticks if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as darker meat generally takes a bit longer to cook through. Make sure to check for an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.
What can I use instead of cider vinegar?
If you don't have cider vinegar, white wine vinegar or rice vinegar can be good substitutes. They will provide a slightly different flavor profile but will still work well in the marinade, enhancing the overall taste of the chicken.
Is it necessary to marinate the chicken overnight?
While marinating for at least 4 hours is recommended to let the flavors penetrate the chicken, if you're short on time, even a 30-minute marinade will add some flavor. Just keep in mind that longer marination yields a tastier result.
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).