Ingredients
Equipment
Method
Step 1 – Make the Marinade
- In a bowl, whisk together lime juice, orange juice, lemon juice, soy sauce, honey, olive oil, garlic, lime zest, orange zest, cumin, coriander, salt, and black pepper.
Step 2 – Marinate the Chicken
- Place chicken breasts in a large zip-top bag or dish.
- Pour marinade over chicken, ensuring it’s fully coated.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (up to 8 hours for maximum flavor).
Step 3 – Grill the Chicken
- Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
- Remove chicken from marinade and grill 5–7 minutes per side, until internal temp reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Baste occasionally with extra marinade (discard leftovers after cooking).
Step 4 – Garnish & Serve
- Transfer chicken to a platter.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges.
- Serve hot with tropical sides.
Notes
🧊 Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in fridge up to 3 days.
Freeze marinated raw chicken up to 2 months (thaw before grilling).
Reheat grilled chicken gently in oven at 325°F or slice and pan-sear with a splash of citrus.
🥄 Variations
Spicy Kick: Add chili flakes or a chopped jalapeño to the marinade.
Tropical Sweetness: Stir in a splash of pineapple juice.
Herb Upgrade: Swap cilantro for fresh basil or mint for a different island flair.
Vegetarian Version: Use the marinade on grilled tofu or portobello mushrooms.
❓ 10 FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes — thighs stay extra juicy on the grill. Can I bake instead of grill?
Yes, bake at 400°F for 20–25 minutes until fully cooked. Do I have to marinate for hours?
At least 1 hour is needed, but longer (up to 8) deepens flavor. Can I use bottled juices?
Fresh is best, but bottled works in a pinch. Does honey burn on the grill?
No, but keep heat at medium-high to avoid scorching. Can I meal prep this chicken?
Absolutely — great for slicing into salads, wraps, or bowls. What sides go well with this?
Coconut rice, mango salsa, or grilled corn. Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, if you use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari. Can I freeze the marinade separately?
Yes, freeze in ice cube trays for quick portions. How do I know chicken is done?
Internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). 🏁 Conclusion
This Key West Grilled Chicken with Tropical Citrus Marinade is zesty, bright, and full of sunshine flavor. With citrus juices, garlic, herbs, and honey, it’s the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and tangy. Ideal for summer grilling, meal prep, or a refreshing island-inspired dinner, this recipe will make you feel like you’re dining beachside in Key West.
Yes — thighs stay extra juicy on the grill. Can I bake instead of grill?
Yes, bake at 400°F for 20–25 minutes until fully cooked. Do I have to marinate for hours?
At least 1 hour is needed, but longer (up to 8) deepens flavor. Can I use bottled juices?
Fresh is best, but bottled works in a pinch. Does honey burn on the grill?
No, but keep heat at medium-high to avoid scorching. Can I meal prep this chicken?
Absolutely — great for slicing into salads, wraps, or bowls. What sides go well with this?
Coconut rice, mango salsa, or grilled corn. Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, if you use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari. Can I freeze the marinade separately?
Yes, freeze in ice cube trays for quick portions. How do I know chicken is done?
Internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). 🏁 Conclusion
This Key West Grilled Chicken with Tropical Citrus Marinade is zesty, bright, and full of sunshine flavor. With citrus juices, garlic, herbs, and honey, it’s the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and tangy. Ideal for summer grilling, meal prep, or a refreshing island-inspired dinner, this recipe will make you feel like you’re dining beachside in Key West.