I can still smell the citrus in the air when I think about family vacations to Florida. The sunshine, the turquoise water, and the vibrant flavors are forever etched in my memory. One dish that always stood out was the grilled chicken, bursting with tropical notes – a taste of pure sunshine on a plate.

I always tried to recreate that taste at home, but it never seemed quite right. Until I stumbled upon this recipe for Key West grilled chicken. It’s the closest thing to sunshine I’ve found!

What I love most about this recipe is how simple it is to make, yet how incredibly flavorful it turns out. I’ve even started experimenting with different variations, adding my own little touches to personalize it even further. Speaking of personal touches, I recently discovered this amazing recipe for white chicken chili that has become another family favorite.

Why you’ll love this Key West Grilled Chicken

It’s incredibly flavorful! The marinade, infused with pineapple and lime, creates a delightful taste that transports you straight to the tropics.
The Key West grilled chicken recipe is easy to make, perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a weekend barbecue.
The chicken comes out juicy and tender, thanks to the marinade which helps to tenderize the meat.
It’s versatile and can be served in so many ways – in salads, sandwiches, or as a main course with your favorite sides.
You can easily customize the level of spice to suit your taste preferences. Add more or less cayenne pepper to adjust the heat.
This recipe uses simple, readily available ingredients you likely already have in your pantry.

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each)
1/2 cup pineapple juice
1/4 cup lime juice, freshly squeezed
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon honey
1 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon cumin
1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
Salt and black pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
Lime wedges, for serving

Directions

Step 1

Key west grilled chicken makes every moment feel uplifting. In a medium bowl, whisk together the pineapple juice, lime juice, olive oil, minced garlic, honey, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Step 2

Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for maximum flavor.

Step 3

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375-450°F or 190-230°C). Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.

Step 4

Remove the chicken breasts from the marinade, discarding the marinade. Place the chicken on the preheated grill and cook for 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy.

Step 5

Remove the grilled chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing or serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender and flavorful chicken.

Step 6

Garnish the Key West Grilled Chicken with fresh chopped cilantro and serve with lime wedges. Enjoy!

Variations, pairings, and serving ideas

Variations

For a sweeter flavor, try adding a tablespoon of brown sugar to the marinade. You could also experiment with different citrus juices, such as orange or grapefruit, for a unique twist on the classic Key West grilled chicken.

If you’re not a fan of grilling, you can bake the chicken in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). You can also cook it in a skillet on the stovetop over medium heat.

To add even more flavor, try stuffing the chicken breasts with a mixture of cream cheese, spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes before grilling. This will create a delicious and impressive dish.

Pairings

Key West grilled chicken pairs perfectly with grilled pineapple slices. The sweetness of the pineapple complements the savory and slightly spicy chicken beautifully. Coconut rice is another great option, adding a creamy and tropical element to the meal.

For a fresh and vibrant side dish, try serving the chicken with a mango salsa. The combination of sweet mango, red onion, cilantro, and lime juice is a match made in heaven. A simple green salad with a citrus vinaigrette is also a great way to balance out the flavors.

Roasted vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, and red onion, are another excellent choice. Toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast them alongside the chicken for a complete and healthy meal. Alternatively, consider serving it with some black beans and rice for a hearty and satisfying meal.

Serving ideas

For an elegant presentation, slice the Key West grilled chicken and arrange it on a platter with the grilled pineapple and mango salsa. Garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges for a pop of color.

You can also use the grilled chicken in sandwiches or wraps. Slice the chicken and layer it with lettuce, tomato, and your favorite condiments on a toasted bun or tortilla.

Another serving idea is to chop the grilled chicken and add it to salads. It’s a great way to add protein and flavor to a simple green salad or a more elaborate salad with avocado, corn, and black beans.

Storage and make-ahead tips

Storage

Leftover Key West grilled chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure the chicken is completely cooled before storing it to prevent condensation from forming.

To reheat the chicken, you can microwave it for a few minutes, or warm it in a skillet over medium heat. You can also reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.

For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked chicken. Wrap each chicken breast individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. Frozen chicken can be stored for up to 2-3 months.

Make-ahead

The marinade for Key West grilled chicken can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld together and intensifies the taste.

You can also marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance. Just be sure to store it in the refrigerator to prevent spoilage. This is a great way to save time on busy weeknights.

For a quick and easy meal prep option, grill a large batch of chicken on the weekend and store it in the refrigerator. Then, you can use it throughout the week in salads, sandwiches, or as a main course.

Common mistakes when making Key West Grilled Chicken

Overcooking the chicken: The key to juicy and tender chicken is to avoid overcooking it. Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), and remove it from the grill immediately once it reaches that temperature.
Not marinating long enough: The marinade is essential for infusing the chicken with flavor and tenderizing the meat. Be sure to marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for maximum flavor.
Grilling at too high of a heat: Grilling at too high of a heat can cause the outside of the chicken to burn before the inside is cooked through. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and adjust as needed to ensure even cooking.
Forgetting to let the chicken rest: Letting the chicken rest for 5 minutes after grilling allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender and flavorful chicken.
Skipping the garnish: Fresh chopped cilantro and lime wedges add a pop of flavor and color to the Key West Grilled Chicken, so don’t skip them!

Final notes

This Key West grilled chicken is truly a taste of sunshine in every bite. The marinade is simple yet delivers big flavor, and the chicken is always juicy and tender. Don’t be afraid to adjust the spices to your liking!

Whether you’re grilling for a summer barbecue or just looking for a quick and easy weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite. The bright citrus flavors are incredibly refreshing, and the chicken pairs well with so many different sides.

So, grab your ingredients, fire up the grill, and get ready to transport your taste buds to the Florida Keys! You won’t be disappointed. I promise that you will impress all your guests with this recipe for Key West grilled chicken.

Amazing Key West Grilled Chicken – A Taste Of The Tropics

Why you’ll love this Key West Grilled Chicken

Ingredients

Directions

Step 1

Step 2

Step 3

Step 4

Step 5

Step 6

Variations, pairings, and serving ideas

Variations

Pairings

Serving ideas

Storage and make-ahead tips

Storage

Make-ahead

Common mistakes when making Key West Grilled Chicken

Final notes

Loved this Key West Grilled Chicken? Try these next

Key West Grilled Chicken

Ingredients

Instructions

Notes

Nutrition

Leave a Comment Cancel reply