Description
A zesty Key West-inspired grilled chicken dish with a tropical citrus marinade that balances sweet and tart flavors. Fresh orange, lime, and lemon juices blend with honey and herbs to tenderize and enhance the chicken’s natural sweetness, all while delivering smoky depth from cumin and paprika. A quick, versatile one-skillet meal perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
4 chicken breasts
1/2 cup fresh orange juice
1/4 cup fresh lime juice
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
3 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves minced garlic
2 tablespoons honey
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
0.5 teaspoon salt
0.5 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon chopped cilantro
Instructions
In a large bowl, whisk together orange juice, lime juice, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, honey, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Submerge chicken breasts in the marinade, ensuring they’re fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, ideally 8 hours or overnight.
Preheat grill to medium-high heat (375–450°F). Remove chicken from marinade and discard excess.
Grill chicken for 6–8 minutes per side, or until fully cooked. During grilling, brush with remaining marinade for extra flavor.
Sprinkle with chopped cilantro and serve immediately.
Notes
For halal option, substitute chicken breasts with halal-certified thighs.
Use avocado oil for grilling with higher smoke point if preferred.
Replace honey with maple syrup for a vegan adaptation.
Marinate up to 24 hours for maximum tenderness.
Add mint leaves with lime zest for enhanced aroma.
Smoked paprika intensifies flavor; smoked sea salt can be used for depth.
- Prep Time: 30
- Cook Time: 25
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Caribbean/Key West
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 260
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 290mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Protein: 35g