Citrus and Mustard Chicken Marinade
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Back at Easter, I shared a recipe for a citrus mustard glaze that added incredible flavor to ham—and it got me thinking: if that combo works so well as a glaze, why not try it as a marinade? With Memorial Day around the corner, it felt like the perfect time to take that idea to the grill. After all, no summer kickoff is complete without something sizzling over the flames, right?
This simple citrus and mustard chicken marinade is a breeze to whip up and infuses your chicken with bright, tangy flavor and just the right touch of savory depth. It’s one of those recipes that feels fancy but is totally fuss-free—ideal for backyard cookouts, weeknight dinners, or meal prep.
And here’s the best part: the chicken is delicious straight off the grill, but it’s also incredibly versatile. I recommend grilling a few extra pieces, because you’ll definitely want leftovers. On Monday, I’ll be sharing a recipe that uses up two leftover chicken breasts from this batch—and trust me, it’s a keeper. All I can say is: YUMMY!
Ingredients for Citrus Marinade
- OLIVE OIL
- APPLE CIDER VINEGAR
- LIME JUICE
- BROWN SUGAR
- MUSTARD
- GARLIC
- SALT
- BONELESS SKINLESS CHICKEN BREASTS
Instructions for Citrus and Mustard Marinade
Start by gathering all the marinade ingredients (everything except the chicken). You can mix them together in a gallon-sized freezer bag for easy cleanup, or use a 9×13 baking dish if you prefer.
Once the marinade is well combined, add the chicken—making sure each piece is coated thoroughly. If you’re using a bag, seal it tightly and give it a gentle shake or massage to distribute the marinade. If you’re using a dish, cover it with plastic wrap or a lid.
Pop the chicken into the refrigerator and let it soak up all that delicious flavor for at least 3 hours—but if you have time, letting it marinate all day will make it even better. Be sure to turn the chicken at least once during this time so every bite gets evenly seasoned.
When you’re ready to cook, fire up the grill and cook the chicken until it’s beautifully charred and cooked through. Then serve it up and enjoy the burst of citrusy, savory goodness!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs work wonderfully with this marinade. They tend to be juicier and more forgiving on the grill. Just adjust the cooking time slightly—thighs may take a bit longer than breasts.
How long should I grill the chicken?
Grill times vary depending on thickness and cut, but generally:
- Boneless breasts: 6–8 minutes per side
- Thighs: 7–10 minutes per side Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness—you’re aiming for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Can I bake the chicken instead of grilling it?
Yes! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the marinated chicken in a baking dish for about 25–30 minutes, or until fully cooked. You can broil it for the last few minutes to get a nice golden finish.
Can I make the marinade ahead of time?
Definitely, you can mix the marinade up to 2 days in advance and store it in the fridge. Just add the chicken when you’re ready to marinate.
Is this marinade freezer-friendly?
It is! Combine the marinade and chicken in a freezer-safe bag, seal it well, and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to use it, thaw overnight in the fridge and grill as usual.
What sides go well with this chicken?
This chicken pairs beautifully with grilled veggies, corn on the cob, potato salad, or a fresh citrusy slaw. It’s also great sliced over a green salad or tucked into wraps.
Can I use bottled lime juice instead of fresh?
Fresh juice is ideal for the brightest flavor, but bottled juice will work in a pinch. Just make sure it’s 100% juice without added sugar or preservatives.
For More Grilling Recipes, try:
- Rosemary Ranch Chicken Kabobs
- Manti Turkey or Chicken
- Grilled Shrimp Skewers
- Grilled Teriyaki Burgers
- Brat Kabobs
- Grilled Chicken Breast Tostadas
- Pineapple Apricot Chicken Skewers
- Grilled Pork Tacos with Pineapple Salsa
- Margarita Chicken
- Fall Off the Bones Baby Back Ribs
- Grilled Pizza
Citrus and Mustard Chicken Marinade
Real Mom Kitchen
Ingredients
- 6 Tbsp olive oil
- ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 ½ Tbsp lime juice
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 3 Tbsp mustard
- 3 cloves of garlic minced
- 1 ½ tsp salt
- 6 chicken breasts
Instructions
- Place all of the above ingredients except the chicken in a gallon sized freezer bag or 9 x 13 baking dish. Mix together and add chicken.
- Seal the bag or cover the baking dish and refrigerate for at least 3 hours, all day would be best. Turn the chicken at least once during this process. Grill chicken and enjoy!
Nutrition
Recipe adapted from Your Homebased Mom.
