Orange Barbecue Grilled Chicken Recipe

Name: Orange Barbecue Grilled Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 6 boneless skinless chicken breasts; 1 cup barbecue sauce; 2 teaspoons orange zest; 2 teaspoons grated fresh ginger; ½ cup pineapple juice; Optional: 1 tablespoon dark brown sugar; 1 can pineapple slices in juice (drained)

Published: August 6, 2025

by Lucille

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: This recipe takes just 30 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Unique Flavor Profile: The combination of orange zest, ginger, and pineapple juice adds a refreshing twist to traditional barbecue chicken.
Versatile Serving Options: Serve it with grilled pineapple slices or your favorite sides for a complete meal.
Family-Friendly Dish: Kids and adults alike will love the sweet and tangy flavors that make this chicken irresistible.
Grill or Oven Friendly: Whether you prefer grilling outdoors or cooking indoors, this recipe adapts easily to different cooking methods.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools for a smooth cooking experience. Using the right equipment can enhance your grilling process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Grill
Tongs
Mixing bowl
Basting brush
Paper towels

Importance of Each Tool

Grill: Provides even heat for perfect searing and flavor infusion.
Tongs: Essential for safely handling hot food without piercing it.
Mixing bowl: Ideal for combining ingredients thoroughly before applying them to your chicken.
Basting brush: Helps apply sauce evenly for maximum flavor during grilling.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

6 boneless (skinless chicken breasts)
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 the Pineapple

1 can (20 oz) pineapple slices in 100% juice (drained, juice reserved)

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 brown sugar if using. Set aside half of this mixture for serving with the grilled 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 grates. Preheat your grill to a temperature between 350°F – 400°F.

Step 3: Grill the Chicken

Sear the chicken breasts over the hot grill. Baste them generously with half of your prepared sauce. Cook until juices run clear, about 8 to 10 minutes on each side.

Step 4: Grill the Pineapple Slices

After removing the chicken, use oiled paper towels again to oil the grill grate. Place pineapple slices on the grill until they are lightly charred.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the grilled chicken alongside a slice or two of charred pineapple. Don’t forget to pass around the remaining barbecue sauce for dipping!

How to Serve Orange Barbecue Grilled Chicken Recipe

Serving your Orange Barbecue Grilled Chicken is all about enhancing the bright flavors and making the meal enjoyable. Here are some creative serving suggestions that will delight your guests.

Pair with Grilled Pineapple

Adding grilled pineapple slices brings a sweet and smoky flavor that complements the chicken beautifully.

Fresh Green Salad

A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the barbecue sauce and adds freshness to the plate.

Coconut Rice

Serve with coconut rice for a tropical twist, which pairs perfectly with the orange and pineapple notes in the chicken.

Corn on the Cob

Grilled corn on the cob is a classic summer side that adds sweetness and crunch, making it a great addition to your meal.

Coleslaw

A tangy coleslaw provides a crunchy texture that contrasts nicely with the tender chicken, making every bite satisfying.

Garlic Bread

Crispy garlic bread can be an excellent option for those who enjoy a carb element on their plate, enhancing the barbecue experience.

How to Perfect Orange Barbecue Grilled Chicken Recipe

To ensure your Orange Barbecue Grilled Chicken turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

Marinate for Extra Flavor: For deeper flavor infusion, let the chicken marinate in the sauce for at least 30 minutes before grilling.
Preheat Your Grill: Always preheat your grill to achieve those perfect sear marks and ensure even cooking throughout.
Use a Meat Thermometer: To avoid undercooking or overcooking, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
Baste While Cooking: Basting your chicken while it cooks keeps it moist and enhances the flavor from the barbecue sauce.
Let It Rest: Once cooked, allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before slicing. This helps retain its juices.
Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add spices like smoked paprika or cayenne pepper to enhance flavor profiles according to your taste preferences.

Best Side Dishes for Orange Barbecue Grilled Chicken Recipe

Choosing delicious side dishes can elevate your meal, complementing the flavors of your Orange Barbecue Grilled Chicken. Here are some top picks:

Grilled Vegetables
Colorful grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus add nutrition and vibrancy to your plate.
Baked Sweet Potatoes
The natural sweetness of baked sweet potatoes pairs well with barbecue flavors and offers healthy carbs.
Quinoa Salad
A refreshing quinoa salad with herbs and lemon dressing provides protein and fiber while being gluten-free.
Potato Wedges
Crispy baked potato wedges seasoned with herbs offer a satisfying crunch alongside juicy grilled chicken.
Macaroni Salad
Creamy macaroni salad adds comfort to your meal and is always a crowd favorite at summer barbecues.
Mediterranean Couscous
Fluffy couscous tossed with olives, tomatoes, and feta cheese brings Mediterranean flair to your feast.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Orange Barbecue Grilled Chicken Recipe, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to help you achieve the best results.

Overcooking the Chicken: This can lead to dry meat. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F for perfect doneness.
Skipping Marinade Time: Failing to let the chicken marinate can diminish flavor. Aim for at least 30 minutes in the marinade for maximum taste.
Neglecting Grill Temperature: Using too high or too low heat can affect cooking time. Preheat your grill to 350° – 400°F for optimal grilling.
Not Basting Enough: Insufficient basting can result in bland chicken. Baste your chicken frequently while grilling for a juicy and flavorful finish.
Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Poor ingredients can ruin the dish. Always opt for fresh chicken and high-quality barbecue sauce for better flavor.

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container.
It lasts up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Orange Barbecue Grilled Chicken Recipe

Wrap individual servings tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
Frozen chicken is best used within 2-3 months for optimal taste.

Reheating Orange Barbecue Grilled Chicken Recipe

Oven: Preheat your oven 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, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in short bursts, checking every minute until hot.
Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a little oil, and warm the chicken on both sides until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to serve Orange Barbecue Grilled Chicken?

Serve this dish with grilled pineapple slices and extra barbecue sauce on the side for added flavor.

Can I use other meats instead of chicken?

Yes! The sauce works well with pork chops or turkey breast too if you want to mix things up.

How can I customize my Orange Barbecue Grilled Chicken Recipe?

Feel free to add more spices or herbs like cayenne pepper or thyme to enhance the flavor profile.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This Orange Barbecue Grilled Chicken Recipe is perfect for meal prep as it stores well and reheats nicely.

Final Thoughts

The Orange Barbecue Grilled Chicken Recipe is not just delicious; it’s also versatile enough for any occasion. With its bright flavors and easy preparation, it’s sure to become a favorite at your table. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite ingredients! Enjoy experimenting with new twists on this classic dish!

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