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Key Lime Grilled Chicken

Zesty key lime marinade brightens tender grilled chicken for a simple, flavorful weeknight main.
Prep Time5 minutes
Cook Time15 minutes
Total Time20 minutes
Servings: 6 servings

Ingredients

  • 6 boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup vegetable oil
  • 1/2 cup key lime juice
  • 1 Tbsp salt
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 2 tsp dried basil
  • 2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp thyme leaves, crushed
  • 1 tsp garlic powder

Instructions

  • Place the chicken breasts between sheets of plastic wrap and gently pound to an even thickness for uniform cooking.
  • Combine the vegetable oil, key lime juice, salt, paprika, dried basil, onion powder, crushed thyme, and garlic powder in a bowl and whisk until blended.
  • Put the chicken in a zip-top bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over it, ensuring all pieces are coated; seal and refrigerate to marinate overnight.
  • Remove the chicken from the refrigerator 1 hour before cooking to come closer to room temperature.
  • Prepare your grill or heat a cast iron grill pan to medium-high heat and oil the grate or pan lightly to prevent sticking.
  • Grill the chicken breasts until cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165ºF, flipping as needed for even charring; timing will vary but should take about 15 minutes total.
  • Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest a few minutes before serving.

Equipment

  • Charcoal Chimney Starter
  • Grilling Tongs
  • Meat Thermometer
  • Cast Iron Grill Pan

Notes

  • Use any chicken cut you prefer, adjusting cook time as needed.
  • If using bone-in chicken, increase the cooking time.
  • Use a meat thermometer to confirm an internal temperature of 165ºF.
  • To cook without a grill, sear 3–4 minutes per side, then bake at 400ºF for 10 minutes.