Zesty Broiled Chicken
Zesty broiled chicken features tender quarters infused with lemon, rosemary, and garlic, finished with a Dijon mustard glaze. Perfect for quick weeknight dinners or casual gatherings, its bright flavors and crispy finish make it a crowd-pleaser for those who enjoy citrusy, herbaceous poultry dishes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat the broiler.
- Line the broiler pan with foil.
- Arrange the chicken quarters, bone side up on the prepared pan.
- Sprinkle the chicken with lemon rind, chopped rosemary, black pepper, and crushed garlic.
- Broil the chicken 6 inches from the broiler for 10 to 15 minutes.
- Remove the pan from the oven.
- Turn the chicken over and continue cooking until the juices run clear, about 15 to 20 minutes.
- Remove from oven and coat the chicken with Dijon mustard.
- Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through.
- Serve with orange wedges.
Tips & Substitutions
For a zesty kick, try adding some chopped fresh parsley or a splash of orange juice to the marinade. If you don't have Dijon mustard, yellow mustard can be used as a substitute, though the flavor will differ slightly. Make sure to keep an eye on the chicken while broiling to prevent burning; use a meat thermometer to ensure it's cooked to 165°F.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this zesty broiled chicken with a fresh garden salad or steamed vegetables for a light meal. It pairs beautifully with orange wedges and can be complemented by side dishes like Oven Baked Hash Browns or a flavorful Busy Day Casserole. For a more filling option, consider serving it with rice or quinoa.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover broiled chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. For best results, cover with foil to retain moisture and prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Zesty Broiled Chicken contains roughly 21 calories, with 1g protein, 4g carbohydrates, and 0g 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 a whole chicken instead of quarters?
Yes, you can use a whole chicken, but you'll need to adjust the cooking time accordingly. A whole chicken will take longer to cook through, likely around 45-60 minutes under the broiler. Ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.
What can I substitute for fresh rosemary?
If you don't have fresh rosemary, dried rosemary can be used, but you'll need less, about one-third of the amount. Alternatively, thyme or oregano can also provide a delicious flavor profile that complements the chicken well.
Can I marinate the chicken beforehand?
Absolutely! Marinating the chicken in the lemon rind, mustard, and herbs for a few hours or overnight will enhance the flavors significantly. Just remember to let it come to room temperature before broiling for even cooking.
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).