Description
This Apple Juice Grilled Chicken recipe features tender chicken breasts marinated in a sweet and tangy blend of apple juice, brown sugar, soy sauce, lemon juice, and garlic. The marinade infuses the chicken with flavor and juiciness, making it perfect for grilling. Ready in just about 20 minutes (plus marinating time), this dish is a simple yet delicious option for a weeknight dinner or weekend cookout.
Ingredients
Scale
Marinade
- 1 cup apple juice
- ¼ cup canola oil
- ¼ cup packed brown sugar
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- 3 Tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
Chicken
- 6 boneless skinless chicken breasts
Instructions
- Prepare the marinade: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together apple juice, canola oil, brown sugar, soy sauce, lemon juice, and minced garlic until the brown sugar is well dissolved and the mixture is combined.
- Marinate the chicken: Place the 6 boneless skinless chicken breasts in a shallow dish or large resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are coated. Cover or seal and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to overnight, to allow the flavors to infuse.
- Preheat the grill: When ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 375°F to 400°F (190°C to 204°C).
- Grill the chicken: Remove the chicken breasts from the marinade and discard the marinade. Place the chicken on the preheated grill and cook for approximately 12 to 15 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure even cooking. Grill until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the chicken is cooked through with nice grill marks.
- Rest and serve: Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring moist and flavorful chicken.
Notes
- For best flavor, marinate the chicken overnight, but at least 1 hour is required.
- If you don’t have a grill, you can cook the chicken on a stovetop grill pan or bake it in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes.
- Make sure to discard the used marinade to avoid cross-contamination or boil it if you want to use it as a sauce.
- Serve this chicken with a side of grilled vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
