This Key West Grilled Chicken is bursting with flavor! Juicy chicken is marinated in lime juice and spices, giving it a zesty kick that’s perfect for warm days.
It’s super easy to make, and the grill brings out the best in the chicken. I love serving it with fresh veggies or a light salad—it’s like a beach vacation on your plate! 🌴
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless are great for quick grilling. If you prefer dark meat, chicken thighs can work nicely too, offering a juicier texture.
Lime & Orange Juice: Fresh juice makes a big difference in taste! If you don’t have fresh, bottled juice can be an alternative, but go for 100% juice for the best flavor.
Olive Oil: This adds richness. If you’re out, other oils like avocado oil can substitute. They also have a high smoke point for grilling.
Honey: Sweetness balances flavors well. You can swap it for maple syrup or agave nectar for a different twist. If you need a sugar-free option, try monk fruit sweetener.
Spices: Garlic powder, cumin, and smoked paprika build amazing flavor. Feel free to adjust or add spices like chili powder or cayenne for some heat!
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken Stays Juicy on the Grill?
To keep your chicken moist, make sure to marinate it well. Here’s how:
- Whisk the marinade well so the flavors mix. A good marinade is essential for tender and flavorful chicken.
- Marinate the chicken for at least 1 hour, but overnight lets the flavors really soak in.
- When grilling, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This helps achieve those beautiful grill marks while also cooking the chicken evenly.
- Cook the chicken for 6-7 minutes per side. Keep an eye on the temperature and remove it once it hits 165°F (75°C).
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling before cutting. This keeps the juices in!
How to Make Key West Grilled Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1/4 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Serving:
- Lime wedges, for garnish
- 2 cups cooked yellow rice
- 2 cups mixed beans (black beans, pinto beans, etc.)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for prep and marinating time (or longer if you choose to marinate overnight), plus another 15-20 minutes for grilling. Overall, you can expect to spend about 30-35 minutes on this delicious dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a large bowl, whisk together the lime juice, orange juice, olive oil, honey, garlic powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. This is where all the yummy flavors come together!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure it’s well-coated. Seal the bag (or cover the dish) and pop it in the fridge. Let it marinate for at least 1 hour, but overnight is best for super tasty chicken!
3. Grill the Chicken:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Take the chicken out of the marinade and discard the leftover marinade. Grill the chicken breasts for about 6-7 minutes on each side. You know it’s done when the internal temperature hits 165°F (75°C) and you see those beautiful grill marks!
4. Prepare the Sides:
While the chicken is grilling, cook the yellow rice and mixed beans according to the package instructions. This will make a perfect and colorful side!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the chicken is done, serve it over a bed of warm yellow rice with the mixed beans beside it. Don’t forget to garnish with lime wedges for that fresh, zesty touch. Enjoy your delicious Key West Grilled Chicken!
Can I Use Bone-In Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, absolutely! If you prefer bone-in chicken, just adjust the grilling time. Bone-in chicken usually takes longer to cook, approximately 10-12 minutes per side. Ensure the internal temperature also reaches 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Citrus Juices?
No worries! You can use bottled lime and orange juice if fresh isn’t available. Just be sure to choose 100% juice for the best flavor. You might also want to reduce the added salt slightly since store-bought juices can be saltier.
Can I Marinate the Chicken for Longer Than Overnight?
While marinating overnight is ideal, you can marinate the chicken for up to 24 hours. Just be cautious not to exceed that time, as the acidity from the lime and orange juice can begin to “cook” the chicken and make it tough.
How Should I Store Leftover Chicken?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the grill until heated through, and enjoy it in salads or wraps for a tasty meal!
