Orange Barbecue Grilled Chicken Recipe

Delight your taste buds with this Orange Barbecue Grilled Chicken Recipe. Perfect for family dinners, summer barbecues, or meal prep, this dish combines juicy chicken with a zesty barbecue sauce that stands out. The bright orange flavor, complemented by hints of ginger and pineapple juice, makes it a unique favorite that everyone will enjoy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe is simple to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Twist: The combination of orange, ginger, and pineapple creates a deliciously different taste that elevates traditional barbecue chicken.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it with grilled vegetables or rice for a complete meal or as part of a summer barbecue feast.
• Great for Meal Prep: This dish stores well in the fridge, making it perfect for lunches throughout the week.
• Crowd-Pleaser: With its vibrant flavors and appealing presentation, it’s sure to impress guests at any gathering.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Tongs
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring spoons
• Paper towels

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Essential for achieving that smoky flavor on your chicken and pineapple.
• Tongs: Perfect for safely handling hot food on the grill without losing juices.
• Mixing bowl: A must-have for combining your barbecue sauce ingredients effortlessly.

Ingredients

Deliciously different and a breeze to throw together in a flash – you’ll love the bright orange flavor and the hint of ginger and pineapple juice in the sauce. Lip smacking good!

For the Chicken

• 6 boneless (skinless chicken breasts)

For the Sauce

• 1 can (20 oz) pineapple slices in 100% juice (drained, juice reserved)
• 1 cup prepared barbecue sauce
• 2 teaspoons orange zest
• 2 teaspoons fresh ginger (peeled and grated)
• ½ cup reserved pineapple juice
• 1 tablespoon dark brown sugar (optional)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Orange Barbecue Grilled Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

Stir together the barbecue sauce, orange zest, grated ginger, ½ cup of reserved pineapple juice, and dark brown sugar if using. Set aside half of this sauce for serving with the chicken later.

Step 2: Preheat the Grill

Dip folded paper towels in cooking oil. Use tongs to hold these oiled paper towels to clean and oil the grill grate. Set them aside to use again before grilling the pineapple. Preheat your grill to a temperature between 350° – 400°F.

Step 3: Grill the Chicken

Sear the chicken breasts over a hot grill while basting them with half of your prepared barbecue sauce. Cook until juices run clear and chicken is thoroughly cooked—approximately 8 to 10 minutes per side.

Step 4: Grill Pineapple Slices

Oil the grill grate again using the paper towels dipped in vegetable oil. Then grill the pineapple slices until they become lightly charred.

Step 5: Serve Your Dish

Serve each piece of grilled chicken with one or two slices of grilled pineapple. Don’t forget to pass around the remaining barbecue sauce for those who want extra flavor!

How to Serve Orange Barbecue Grilled Chicken Recipe

Serving your Orange Barbecue Grilled Chicken is an opportunity to enhance its delightful flavor. Pairing it with the right sides and garnishes elevates the entire meal experience.

Fresh Salad

• Crisp Green Salad: A light mix of greens with a tangy vinaigrette complements the sweetness of the chicken.
• Fruit Salad: Combining seasonal fruits adds a refreshing touch that balances the dish’s richness.

Grilled Vegetables

• Charred Corn on the Cob: Sweet and smoky, grilled corn pairs perfectly with orange flavors.
• Zucchini and Bell Peppers: These colorful veggies can be tossed on the grill for added flavor.

Rice Dishes

• Coconut Rice: The creaminess of coconut rice harmonizes well with the citrus notes in the chicken.
• Wild Rice Pilaf: Earthy wild rice adds texture and depth to your meal.

Pineapple Slices

• Grilled Pineapple: Serve grilled pineapple slices alongside for an extra burst of tropical flavor.

How to Perfect Orange Barbecue Grilled Chicken Recipe

To achieve the best results with your Orange Barbecue Grilled Chicken, consider these helpful tips:

• Marinate Longer: Letting the chicken sit in the marinade for several hours or overnight enhances flavor.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh ginger and orange zest provide vibrant flavors compared to dried alternatives.
• Check Grill Temperature: Ensure your grill is at 350° – 400°F for optimal cooking without drying out the chicken.
• Baste Frequently: Basting while grilling keeps the chicken moist and flavorful.
• Rest Before Serving: Allowing the chicken to rest for a few minutes after grilling helps retain juices.

Best Side Dishes for Orange Barbecue Grilled Chicken Recipe

Choosing complementary side dishes can make your meal more enjoyable. Below are some great options that pair beautifully with your grilled chicken.

1. Coleslaw: A crunchy slaw adds texture and freshness, balancing the sweet barbecue sauce.
2. Baked Beans: Sweet and savory baked beans are a classic BBQ side that enhances your meal’s heartiness.
3. Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread offers a deliciously crunchy side that everyone loves.
4. Cornbread: Moist cornbread provides a hint of sweetness, matching well with the orange flavors.
5. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with herbs offers a nutritious and filling option.
6. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs add comfort to your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even the best recipes can go awry if you’re not careful. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for when making your Orange Barbecue Grilled Chicken Recipe.

• Using low-quality chicken: Cheap or frozen chicken breasts can result in dry and tough meat. Always opt for fresh, high-quality chicken for the best flavor and texture.
• Not marinating long enough: Skipping the marination step or not allowing enough time can lead to bland chicken. Aim for at least 30 minutes to let those flavors penetrate.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking your chicken too long can dry it out. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F but no more.
• Ignoring grill temperature: Starting the grill too hot or too cold can affect cooking time and texture. Preheat your grill to 350° – 400°F for optimal results.
• Forgetting about the sauce: If you don’t set aside some barbecue sauce for serving, you might miss out on that extra burst of flavor. Always reserve some before basting.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftover Orange Barbecue Grilled Chicken in an airtight container.
• It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Orange Barbecue Grilled Chicken Recipe

• Wrap the grilled chicken tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months.

Reheating Orange Barbecue Grilled Chicken Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F. Place chicken on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in short intervals (30 seconds) until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or broth, then add the chicken. Cover and cook until heated through, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about the Orange Barbecue Grilled Chicken Recipe.

Can I use another type of meat for this recipe?

Yes! This barbecue sauce works well with pork chops or turkey as well.

How spicy is the Orange Barbecue Grilled Chicken Recipe?

This recipe is mild but flavorful due to ginger and orange zest. You can add chili flakes if you prefer more heat!

Can I prepare this recipe in advance?

Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken overnight, which enhances the flavor even more.

What sides pair well with this grilled chicken?

Fresh salads, grilled vegetables, or rice dishes complement this dish beautifully.

How do I make this recipe gluten-free?

Use gluten-free barbecue sauce and check that all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

Final Thoughts

The Orange Barbecue Grilled Chicken Recipe is not only quick and easy but also bursting with delightful flavors. Its versatility allows you to customize it by adding spices or changing side dishes according to your preference. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!