Description
This Key West grilled chicken features a bright, tropical citrus marinade that keeps the chicken juicy and tender, perfect for summer grilling or any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (60 ml)
- 1/4 cup fresh orange juice (60 ml)
- 2 tablespoons pineapple juice (30 ml)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil (45 ml)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced (about 1 tablespoon)
- 1 tablespoon honey (15 ml)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (about 15 g)
- Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes or 1 diced jalapeño
- Optional: splash of soy sauce
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together fresh lime juice, orange juice, pineapple juice, olive oil, minced garlic, honey, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper until well blended.
- Place chicken breasts or thighs into a zip-top bag or shallow dish. Pour marinade over chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated. Seal and refrigerate for at least 1 hour and up to 6 hours.
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F / 200°C). Lightly oil grill grates to prevent sticking.
- Remove chicken from marinade, letting excess drip off. Grill chicken for 4-6 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and grill marks appear.
- Transfer chicken to a plate and let rest for 5 minutes to redistribute juices.
- Sprinkle fresh chopped cilantro on top and serve with optional lime wedges.
Notes
[‘Do not marinate chicken longer than 6 hours to avoid mushy texture from citrus acids.’, ‘Pat chicken dry before grilling to prevent flare-ups and ensure proper searing.’, ‘Oil grill grates before heating to prevent sticking.’, ‘Use medium-high heat to avoid burning sugars in the marinade.’, ‘Thighs are preferred for juicier results but breasts can be used with careful cooking.’, ‘Make extra marinade without garlic or honey to drizzle over cooked chicken for extra flavor.’]
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American, Tropical
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken serving (a
- Calories: 280
- Sodium: 450
- Fat: 10
- Saturated Fat: 2
- Carbohydrates: 6
- Protein: 35
Keywords: grilled chicken, tropical marinade, citrus chicken, Key West recipe, summer grilling, juicy chicken, easy marinade