Grilled Citrus-Marinated Chicken with Brazilian Herb Salsa

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Tender grilled chicken breasts marinated in zesty citrus and herbs, topped with a fresh Brazilian-style herb salsa bursting with vibrant flavors. This brazilian-inspired chicken ready in about 30 minutes blends orange juice, lime juice, olive oil into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 320 calories and feeds 4, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 15 min Cook: 15 min Serves 4 Brazilian cuisine 320 cal/serving
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Ingredients

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Instructions

  1. Step 1: In a medium bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup orange juice, 1/4 cup lime juice, 3 tbsp olive oil, 3 minced garlic cloves, 1 tsp ground cumin, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper until well combined. Place 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts in a resealable bag and pour marinade over them. Seal and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably 3-4 hours.
  2. Step 2: Preheat grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F). Remove chicken breasts from marinade, letting excess drip off, and grill for 6-7 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 165°F and juices run clear.
  3. Step 3: While chicken grills, mix 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro, 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley, 1 small finely diced red onion, and 1 small deseeded finely chopped red chili pepper in a bowl. Season with a pinch of salt to create a bright Brazilian herb salsa.
  4. Step 4: Remove chicken from grill and let rest for 5 minutes. Serve topped with the fresh herb salsa for a fragrant, zesty finish.

Frequently asked questions

How long does Grilled Citrus-Marinated Chicken with Brazilian Herb Salsa take to make?

Total time is about 30 minutes (15 min prep + 15 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Grilled Citrus-Marinated Chicken with Brazilian Herb Salsa?

Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.

Can I substitute ingredients in Grilled Citrus-Marinated Chicken with Brazilian Herb Salsa?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Grilled Citrus-Marinated Chicken with Brazilian Herb Salsa for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

What goes well with Grilled Citrus-Marinated Chicken with Brazilian Herb Salsa?

Brazilian chicken like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.

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