Key West Grilled Chicken (Printable)

Citrus- and honey-marinated chicken grilled to a caramelized finish with island spices and fresh cilantro.

# What You Need:

→ Poultry

01 - 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

→ Marinade

02 - 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice
03 - 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
04 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
05 - 2 tablespoons honey
06 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
07 - 1 teaspoon low-sodium soy sauce
08 - 1 teaspoon salt
09 - 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
10 - 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
11 - 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
12 - 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes, optional

→ For Garnish

13 - 2 tablespoons fresh chopped cilantro
14 - Lime wedges

# How To Make:

01 - Combine lime juice, lemon juice, olive oil, honey, minced garlic, soy sauce, salt, black pepper, cumin, thyme, and red pepper flakes in a medium mixing bowl. Whisk thoroughly.
02 - Arrange chicken breasts in a large resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour marinade over chicken, seal, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours for enhanced flavor.
03 - Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
04 - Remove chicken from marinade, allowing excess to drip off. Discard remaining marinade. Grill chicken for 5 to 6 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
05 - Transfer grilled chicken to a platter and rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve with lime wedges.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • The citrusy marinade comes together in moments but makes you look like you have a secret up your sleeve.
  • The smoky grill marks and tropical flavors make any weeknight feel like a getaway.
02 -
  • If you rush the marinade, the flavors stay shallow—minimum 30 minutes makes a difference.
  • Lightly oiling the grill grates saves the chicken from sticking and tearing—ask me how I learned.
03 -
  • Don&apost crowd the grill—space between the chicken helps each piece cook evenly and sear properly.
  • Add a splash of pineapple juice to the marinade sometimes for a subtle, sweet tang that surprises everyone.

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