Keys-style Citrus Chicken

Keys-style Citrus Chicken Recipe from Florida Keys, USA

Region / culture: Florida Keys, USA | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 15 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Keys-style Citrus Chicken is a flavorful and zesty dish that combines the bright citrus flavors of lime and orange with tender chicken breasts. This dish is perfect for a light and refreshing meal that is sure to impress your family and friends.

History

Keys-style Citrus Chicken is inspired by the cuisine of the Florida Keys, where citrus fruits like oranges and limes are abundant. The combination of citrus flavors with chicken is a popular and delicious way to enjoy the fresh and vibrant tastes of the region.

Ingredients

4 medium chicken breasts
2 cloves of garlic
1 tbsp of butter
1 tsp of lime peel
2 tbsp of lime juice
0.25 tsp of ground ginger
0.13 tsp of crushed red pepper
1 orange
rice
limes

How to prepare

Rinse the chicken and pat it dry with paper towels.
In a large skillet, cook the chicken and garlic in butter or margarine over medium heat for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the chicken is tender and no longer pink. Turn the chicken once and stir the garlic occasionally.
Meanwhile, in a small bowl, combine the lime peel, lime juice, ginger, and pepper. Set aside.
Peel the orange. Cut it in half lengthwise and then crosswise into slices, reserving the juice.
Add any reserved orange juice and the lime juice mixture to the skillet.
Place the orange slices on top of the chicken.
Cover and cook for 1 to 2 minutes more, or until heated through.
To serve, spoon any reserved drippings over the chicken.
If desired, serve with cooked rice and garnish with lime wedges.

Variations

Substitute chicken breasts with chicken thighs for a more flavorful and juicy dish.
Add diced bell peppers and onions to the skillet for extra color and texture.
Use lemon instead of lime for a slightly different citrus flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to rinse the chicken thoroughly and pat it dry before cooking to ensure a crispy and golden brown exterior.

- Cooking the chicken in butter or margarine adds a rich and savory flavor to the dish.

- Adding the lime peel, lime juice, ginger, and crushed red pepper to the skillet creates a tangy and spicy sauce that perfectly complements the chicken.

- Garnish the dish with fresh lime wedges for an extra burst of citrus flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Keys-style Citrus Chicken with cooked rice and a side of steamed vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.

Cooking Techniques

Cooking the chicken in butter or margarine helps to brown the exterior and lock in moisture for tender and juicy meat.

- Covering the skillet while cooking the chicken with the citrus sauce helps to infuse the flavors into the meat.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use olive oil instead of butter or margarine for a healthier alternative.

- Swap out the lime juice for lemon juice for a different citrus flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

Marinate the chicken in the lime juice mixture for a few hours before cooking to enhance the flavor.

- Cook the chicken ahead of time and reheat in the oven before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the orange slices on top of the chicken for a colorful and elegant presentation. - Garnish the dish with fresh cilantro or parsley for a pop of green color.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve Keys-style Citrus Chicken with a crisp and refreshing white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.

- Pair the dish with a side of coconut rice or black beans for a tropical twist.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

- Reheat the chicken in the microwave or oven until heated through before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

300 per serving

Carbohydrates

25g per serving

Fats

- Total Fat: 8g per serving

- Saturated Fat: 3g per serving

Proteins

- Protein: 30g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin C: 45% of daily value per serving

- Iron: 10% of daily value per serving

Alergens

Contains dairy (butter or margarine)

Summary

Keys-style Citrus Chicken is a well-balanced dish that is high in protein and vitamin C, making it a nutritious and delicious meal option.

Summary

Keys-style Citrus Chicken is a delicious and vibrant dish that is perfect for a light and refreshing meal. With the bright flavors of lime and orange, tender chicken breasts, and a zesty citrus sauce, this dish is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe rotation.

How did I get this recipe?

I have a clear recollection of the first time I saw this recipe for Keys-style Citrus Chicken. It was a warm summer day in Key West, and I had just finished browsing through the local farmers market. The smell of fresh citrus fruits filled the air as I walked past the various stalls selling everything from key limes to oranges.

As I made my way through the market, I stumbled upon a small stand run by a friendly elderly woman named Maria. She was selling all sorts of citrus fruits, and as I chatted with her, she mentioned that she had a special recipe for Key West-style Citrus Chicken that she was happy to share with me.

Maria explained that the key to making the perfect Citrus Chicken was to use a combination of key lime juice, orange juice, and a touch of honey to create a tangy and sweet marinade for the chicken. She also mentioned that letting the chicken marinate for at least a few hours would ensure that the flavors really soaked into the meat.

I was intrigued by Maria's recipe and decided to give it a try. I purchased some fresh key limes and oranges from her stand, along with a few chicken breasts, and headed home to start cooking.

As I prepared the marinade, I couldn't help but be transported back to that warm summer day in Key West. The scent of the citrus fruits filled my kitchen, and I could almost hear the sound of the waves crashing against the shore.

After letting the chicken marinate for a few hours, I fired up the grill and cooked the chicken until it was perfectly charred and juicy. The aroma of the Citrus Chicken filled the air, and I couldn't wait to dig in.

As I took my first bite, I was blown away by the flavors. The tangy key lime and orange juices paired perfectly with the sweet honey, creating a mouthwatering dish that was bursting with the tastes of Key West.

From that day on, Keys-style Citrus Chicken became a staple in my recipe book. I would often make it for family gatherings and dinner parties, and it never failed to impress.

Over the years, I have added my own twist to Maria's original recipe, experimenting with different herbs and spices to create new and exciting variations. But no matter how many times I make it, the taste of Keys-style Citrus Chicken always brings me back to that warm summer day in Key West.

I am grateful to Maria for sharing her recipe with me, as it has become a cherished dish in my family. And every time I cook it, I am reminded of the power of food to bring people together and create lasting memories.