Description
This vibrant Key West Citrus Marinade infuses chicken with a bright, zesty blend of orange and lime juices, accented by warm spices and a hint of heat from jalapeno. Perfect for grilling, stovetop searing, or baking, this marinade brings a fresh, tropical flavor that makes chicken irresistibly juicy and flavorful.
Ingredients
Scale
Marinade Ingredients
- 1 large orange (juice and zest)
- 1 lime (juice and zest)
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1 jalapeno, minced (for less heat, leave out the seeds)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
- Pinch of crushed red pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Chicken
- 1 1/2 pounds chicken (any pieces of choice)
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a glass bowl or resealable plastic bag, combine the juice and zest of the orange and lime with red wine vinegar, olive oil, honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, minced jalapeno, salt, ground cumin, dried thyme, ground allspice, crushed red pepper, ground black pepper, and ground cinnamon. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, making sure they are fully coated. Seal the bowl or bag and refrigerate for 2 to 3 hours to allow the flavors to deeply penetrate the meat.
- Bring to Room Temperature: When ready to cook, remove the chicken from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes. This promotes even cooking and better texture.
- Cook the Chicken: Choose your preferred cooking method: grill the chicken for a smoky flavor, sauté on the stove top for a quick sear, or bake in the oven. Cook each piece until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) to ensure it is fully cooked and safe to eat.
Notes
- For less heat, remove seeds from the jalapeno before mincing.
- Marinating time can be extended up to overnight for more intense flavor.
- Ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before serving.
- Any cut of chicken – breasts, thighs, drumsticks – can be used.
- Use a food-safe resealable bag for easy marinade coverage and cleanup.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-30 minutes depending on cooking method
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling, Baking, or Stovetop Searing (Primary method: Grilling)
- Cuisine: Key West / American
Keywords: citrus marinade, chicken marinade, Key West chicken, grilled chicken, lime orange marinade, flavorful chicken, easy chicken recipe
