Key West Grilled Chicken – Sweet, Citrusy, and Perfect for the Grill

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Bring the tropical flavors of Florida straight to your backyard with this Key West Grilled Chicken recipe. Marinated in a zesty blend of lime juice, honey, soy sauce, and garlic, this grilled chicken is juicy, flavorful, and irresistibly aromatic. It’s the kind of dish that screams summer cookout, but it’s just as perfect for meal prep or a healthy weeknight dinner.

Inspired by the breezy, sun-soaked vibes of Key West, this dish is sweet, citrusy, and just the right amount of savory. Best of all, it’s simple to make and ready to grill in 30 minutes (or even better after an overnight marinade).

Why You’ll Love Key West Grilled Chicken

  • Bright & Balanced Flavor: Lime juice and honey create a tropical sweet-tangy combo, while soy sauce adds depth.

  • Juicy & Tender: The marinade both tenderizes and flavors the chicken.

  • Grill-Friendly: Perfect for outdoor cooking, but also works in a grill pan or oven broiler.

  • Versatile: Great on its own, in wraps, over rice, or sliced on salads.

  • Healthy: High in protein, low in carbs, and packed with fresh flavor.

Ingredients Overview: What Makes It “Key West”

This marinade brings sunshine to your plate with just a few pantry staples.

Chicken (Boneless, Skinless Thighs or Breasts)

  • Why It Works: Thighs are juicier and more forgiving on the grill. Breasts also work beautifully if not overcooked.

  • Tips: Pound breasts to even thickness for best results.

Lime Juice (Fresh-Squeezed)

  • Why It Works: Adds tangy brightness and helps tenderize the meat.

  • Tips: Don’t substitute with bottled lime juice—fresh gives the best flavor.

Honey

  • Why It Works: Adds sweetness and helps caramelize the outside of the chicken during grilling.

  • Tips: Warm slightly if needed to whisk easily into the marinade.

Soy Sauce

  • Why It Works: Deepens the flavor with salty umami. Tamari or coconut aminos work for gluten-free versions.

Garlic (Minced)

  • Why It Works: Adds punchy aroma and flavor that rounds out the sweet and sour balance.

Olive Oil

  • Why It Works: Helps emulsify the marinade and prevents sticking on the grill.

Optional Add-ins:

  • Chili flakes or hot sauce: For a spicy version

  • Ginger: For a slight island-style twist

  • Lime zest: For extra citrus aroma

Step-by-Step Instructions: Grill Like a Pro

You only need a few steps to get this juicy, flavor-packed chicken on the table.

1. Make the Marinade

In a bowl or resealable bag, whisk together:

  • 1/3 cup fresh lime juice

  • 1/4 cup soy sauce

  • 2 tablespoons honey

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Taste and adjust—add a pinch of chili flakes if you want heat.

2. Marinate the Chicken

  • Add 1.5 to 2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken (breasts or thighs).

  • Turn to coat well.

  • Marinate for at least 30 minutes, ideally 4–8 hours for maximum flavor.

Tip: Don’t marinate longer than 12 hours—the acid can start to break down the chicken too much.

3. Preheat the Grill

  • Heat grill to medium-high and oil the grates.

  • If using a grill pan indoors, preheat over medium-high and brush with oil.

4. Grill the Chicken

  • Remove chicken from marinade (discard leftover liquid).

  • Grill for:

    • 5–6 minutes per side for thighs

    • 6–7 minutes per side for breasts (or until internal temp reaches 165°F)

Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing to keep juices in.

5. Garnish & Serve

  • Squeeze extra lime over the top.

  • Garnish with chopped cilantro or parsley if desired.

Tips, Variations & Flavor Twists

Chef Tips:

  • Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking.

  • Let the chicken rest before slicing—it keeps juices locked in.

  • Oil the grill grates to prevent sticking and preserve that beautiful sear.

Flavor Variations:

  • Spicy Caribbean Style: Add scotch bonnet or habanero to the marinade (carefully!).

  • Coconut Lime: Add 2 tablespoons of coconut milk to the marinade.

  • Key Lime Version: Use actual key limes if you can find them—sweeter and more aromatic than Persian limes.

Swaps:

  • No soy sauce? Use tamari, coconut aminos, or Worcestershire.

  • No honey? Try agave or maple syrup, though the flavor will be slightly different.

Serving Ideas & Meal Pairings

This juicy grilled chicken is incredibly versatile. Serve it:

  • With rice and beans: Classic island-style side

  • Over a tropical salad: Mixed greens, mango, avocado, and a lime vinaigrette

  • In tacos or wraps: Slice thin and pair with slaw and chipotle mayo

  • With grilled veggies and corn on the cob

  • As meal prep: Keep sliced in the fridge for easy salads or bowls

Occasions:
Perfect for summer BBQs, cookouts, family dinners, or quick weeknight meals. It’s also a go-to for picnics and potlucks when served cold.

Nutritional & Health Highlights

This dish is naturally lean, high in protein, and loaded with fresh, vibrant ingredients.

  • High-Protein: Chicken breast or thighs provide ~25g+ protein per serving.

  • Low-Carb & Gluten-Free Friendly: With the right soy sauce alternative.

  • Rich in Antioxidants: Thanks to garlic, lime juice, and olive oil.

  • Heart-Healthy Fats: From olive oil, if grilled instead of fried.

Estimated Nutrition (per serving, with chicken breast):

  • Calories: ~280

  • Protein: ~30g

  • Fat: ~12g

  • Carbs: ~7g (from honey)

FAQ: Key West Grilled Chicken

1. Can I use bottled lime juice?

It’s not recommended—fresh lime juice has brighter, fresher flavor that really makes this dish shine.

2. How long can I marinate the chicken?

Ideally 4–8 hours. Don’t go beyond 12 hours—lime juice can break down the meat too much and turn it mushy.

3. Can I bake instead of grill?

Yes. Bake at 400°F for 20–25 minutes, or until internal temp hits 165°F. You won’t get the grill marks but the flavor will still be great.

4. Can I freeze the marinated chicken?

Yes! Combine marinade and raw chicken in a freezer bag and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight and grill as usual.

5. What sides go best with this?

Grilled corn, coconut rice, black beans, tropical fruit salad, or even mashed sweet potatoes.

6. Is this dish spicy?

Not by default. It’s mild, sweet, and citrusy. You can add heat with chili flakes or hot sauce.

7. Can I make this in a skillet?

Absolutely. Use a cast-iron or nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Sear until golden and cooked through, about 6–8 minutes total.

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