Key West Grilled Chicken with Tropical Citrus Marinade

Byarlo Jack

Bring the flavors of the Florida Keys to your grill with this Key West Grilled Chicken recipe. Infused with bright tropical citrus, sweet mango, and a touch of spice, this chicken is juicy, flavorful, and perfect for summer cookouts, family dinners, or casual weeknight meals. The marinade tenderizes the chicken while infusing it with zesty, sweet, and slightly tangy tropical flavors, giving you a vibrant, restaurant-quality dish at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Bright, tropical flavor: Citrus, mango, and pineapple add natural sweetness and tang.
  • Juicy grilled chicken: Marinating tenderizes the meat for perfect grilling.
  • Quick and easy: Minimal prep, maximum flavor.
  • Versatile: Works with chicken breasts, thighs, or drumsticks.
  • Perfect for gatherings: Eye-catching, flavorful, and crowd-pleasing.

This recipe delivers a balance of sweet, tangy, and savory that makes every bite exciting and memorable.

Ingredients Overview

For the Marinade

  • Orange juice (1/4 cup): Bright citrusy sweetness.
  • Lime juice (2 tbsp): Adds tang and acidity.
  • Pineapple juice (1/4 cup, optional): Natural sweetness and tenderizing properties.
  • Mango puree or finely chopped mango (2–3 tbsp): Adds tropical richness and aroma.
  • Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Aromatic depth.
  • Olive oil (2 tbsp): Ensures juicy chicken and helps the marinade coat the meat.
  • Honey or agave syrup (1–2 tsp): Balances acidity with sweetness.
  • Salt and black pepper: Essential for flavor.
  • Optional spices: Red pepper flakes, smoked paprika, or cumin for a subtle kick.

For the Chicken

  • Chicken breasts or thighs (4 pieces): Boneless or bone-in, skinless or skin-on.
  • Fresh herbs (optional): Cilantro, parsley, or basil for garnish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a medium bowl, whisk together orange juice, lime juice, pineapple juice, mango puree, minced garlic, olive oil, honey, salt, pepper, and optional spices.

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Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken in a large resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it is evenly coated. Seal or cover and refrigerate for 1–4 hours. Longer marination enhances flavor but avoid over-marinating (especially if using pineapple juice) to prevent meat from becoming mushy.

Step 3: Preheat the Grill

Heat your grill to medium-high. Oil the grates to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Grill the Chicken

Remove chicken from the marinade, letting excess drip off. Grill chicken 5–7 minutes per side (depending on thickness) until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Step 5: Rest and Serve

Transfer chicken to a plate and allow it to rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Garnish with chopped fresh herbs and serve with grilled vegetables, rice, or tropical salsa.

Flavor and Texture

This grilled chicken is succulent, vibrant, and bursting with tropical flavors, transporting your taste buds straight to Key West.

  • Texture: Juicy, tender, and perfectly grilled.
  • Flavor: Tropical sweetness from mango and pineapple, balanced with citrusy brightness and garlic aroma.
  • Balance: Slight tang from lime and pineapple juice balances sweetness and enhances natural chicken flavor.

Tips for the Perfect Key West Grilled Chicken

  • Marinate properly: At least 1 hour, up to 4 hours for best flavor. Avoid overnight if using pineapple juice to prevent over-tenderizing.
  • Control heat: Medium-high heat ensures a seared exterior while keeping the inside juicy.
  • Don’t crowd the grill: Allow space between chicken pieces for even cooking.
  • Check doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  • Rest before slicing: Helps retain juices.
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Variations and Customizations

Spicy Tropical Chicken: Add red chili flakes or chopped fresh jalapeño to the marinade.

Coconut Citrus Chicken: Substitute some of the juice with coconut water for a subtle tropical aroma.

Pineapple Salsa Topping: Grill pineapple slices and serve as a topping with chopped cilantro and lime zest.

Herb-Infused: Add fresh thyme or rosemary to the marinade for extra depth.

Bone-in Thighs: Use bone-in, skin-on thighs for a richer flavor and juicier texture.

Skewered Chicken: Cut into chunks and thread onto skewers for kebabs with tropical flavor.

Make-Ahead and Storage

  • Marinate ahead: Chicken can be marinated up to 4 hours in the fridge.
  • Storage: Cooked chicken can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to retain juiciness.
  • Freezing: Freeze cooked chicken for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve with grilled vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, and corn.
  • Pair with coconut rice or jasmine rice for a tropical vibe.
  • Add a fresh tropical salsa with mango, pineapple, red onion, and cilantro.
  • Serve alongside quinoa or couscous bowls for a healthy meal.
  • Use slices in tacos or wraps with slaw and avocado.

Conclusion

Key West Grilled Chicken with Tropical Citrus Marinade is a bright, juicy, and flavorful dish that brings the tropics to your plate. The combination of citrus, mango, and pineapple provides a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors. Quick and easy to prepare, this dish is perfect for summer cookouts, casual weeknight dinners, or entertaining guests. Juicy grilled chicken with tropical flair is sure to impress family and friends alike. Serve with fresh herbs, tropical salsa, or your favorite side dishes for a meal that transports your taste buds straight to Key West.

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Frequently Asked Questions(FAQs)

Can I use chicken breasts or thighs?
Yes! Both work beautifully. Thighs tend to stay juicier and are more forgiving on the grill, while breasts cook faster and are leaner. Adjust cooking time accordingly to avoid drying out the meat.

Do I have to use pineapple or mango in the marinade?
No, these ingredients add natural sweetness and help tenderize the chicken, but you can substitute with extra orange or lime juice if desired. The dish will still have bright, tropical citrus flavor.

How long should I marinate the chicken?
For best results, marinate for at least 1 hour and up to 4 hours. Avoid marinating longer if using pineapple juice, as the natural enzymes can over-tenderize the chicken and make it mushy.

Can I make this recipe indoors without a grill?
Yes! You can cook the chicken in a grill pan, cast-iron skillet, or under the broiler. Ensure medium-high heat and cook evenly on both sides for a similar char and flavor.

Can I make it spicy?
Absolutely! Add red pepper flakes, chili powder, or fresh diced jalapeños to the marinade for a tropical-spicy kick. Adjust to your heat preference.

Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! All the ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Just double-check any pre-made sauces or condiments if you add them.