Grilled chicken glazed in zesty citrus juices and Caribbean spices is a Key West staple. This dish combines sweet, tangy, and smoky flavors that shine at summer cookouts. At Eminent Recipes, I’ve perfected the balance of quick execution and bold taste—ideal for busy weeknights or family gatherings. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, it’s a recipe that delivers comfort and customization.
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time
12-14 minutes
Total Time
2h 10m
Servings
4
Difficulty
Moderate
Cuisine
American (Caribbean-influenced)
Why This Recipe Works
The tropical citrus marinade transforms chicken into juicy, flavorful perfection. Fresh orange juice adds sweet acidity, while lime and lemon contribute brightness. Olive oil coats the meat, preventing dryness under the grill’s heat.
Caribbean spices like cumin and paprika add depth beyond typical marinades. The overnight marination tenderizes fibers while infusing them with flavor. When grilled, sugars in the honey caramelize, creating a glaze that sticks like a pro.
Ingredients
Ingredient
Quantity
Notes
Chicken breasts
4
Use boneless/skinless for even cooking
Orange juice
1/2 cup
Freshly squeezed yields best tang
Lime juice
1/4 cup
Emily
Key West Grilled Chicken with Tropical Citrus Marinade
Zesty citrus and Caribbean spices meet grilled chicken in this bold, summer-ready dish. A tangy honey-lime glaze seals in juiciness for sweet, smoky perfection.
Combine orange juice, lime juice, lemon juice, olive oil, honey, cumin, paprika, garlic, salt, and pepper in a bowl to make marinade
Submerge chicken breasts in marinade, cover, and refrigerate for 2-4 hours (12 hours optimal)
Remove chicken from marinade, pat dry
Grill over medium-high heat (375°F-400°F), flipping once, until cooked through (12-14 total minutes)
Let rest 5 minutes before serving
Notes
Marinate for minimum 2 hours
Use instant-read thermometer to check internal temperature (165°F)
Optional glaze: brush additional marinade during last 2 minutes
For vegan version, substitute honey with agave syrup
Store cooked chicken in airtight container (3 days) or freeze marinade-sealed chicken (3 months)
