Zesty Caribbean Lime Grilled Chicken
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of the Caribbean with this Zesty Caribbean Lime Grilled Chicken recipe. Perfect for family gatherings or summer barbecues, this dish combines the bright acidity of lime with aromatic herbs and spices to elevate your chicken to new heights. The marinade infuses each succulent piece of chicken with a tropical twist, making it a delightful centerpiece for your meal. Serve it alongside a fresh salad or with coconut rice for a complete culinary experience.
6
Servings
N/A
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
chicken pieces
2 - 2 1/2 lbs (breasts, thighs, and drumsticks)
lime zest
1/2 teaspoon (freshly grated)
lime juice
1/4 cup (freshly squeezed)
vegetable oil
1 tablespoon (for the marinade)
garlic cloves
3 (minced)
black pepper
1 teaspoon (freshly ground)
basil
1 teaspoon (crushed)
kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon (to taste)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C).
2
Rinse the chicken pieces thoroughly under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
3
Arrange the chicken pieces on a broiler pan, ensuring they are evenly spaced.
4
Broil the chicken in the oven, 4-5 inches from the heat source, for approximately 20 minutes, or until they start to brown.
5
While the chicken is broiling, prepare the marinade by mixing together the lime zest, lime juice, vegetable oil, minced garlic, black pepper, crushed basil, and kosher salt in a bowl.
6
After the initial broiling time, carefully brush the marinade generously over both sides of the chicken pieces.
7
Continue to broil the chicken for another 5 to 15 minutes, checking for doneness. The chicken should be no longer pink in the center and have an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C).
8
During the last 5 minutes of cooking, brush the chicken frequently with the remaining marinade to enhance the flavor.
9
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Zesty Caribbean Lime Grilled Chicken?
It is a vibrant Caribbean-inspired dish that uses lime, garlic, and herbs to create a tropical and zesty flavor profile for chicken.
What types of chicken pieces are best for this recipe?
The recipe recommends using a mix of chicken breasts, thighs, and drumsticks.
How much chicken does this recipe require?
You will need approximately 2 to 2.5 pounds of chicken pieces.
How should I prepare the chicken before cooking?
Rinse the chicken pieces under cold water and pat them dry thoroughly with paper towels.
What temperature should the oven be set to?
Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C) before you begin the broiling process.
What are the ingredients for the lime marinade?
The marinade consists of lime zest, lime juice, vegetable oil, minced garlic, black pepper, crushed basil, and kosher salt.
How much lime juice is needed?
The recipe calls for 1/4 cup of freshly squeezed lime juice.
How many garlic cloves should I use?
You should use 3 minced garlic cloves for the marinade.
Should I use fresh or dried basil?
The recipe specifies using 1 teaspoon of crushed basil.
How do I start the cooking process?
Arrange the dried chicken pieces on a broiler pan and broil them 4-5 inches from the heat source for 20 minutes.
When do I apply the marinade to the chicken?
Apply the marinade after the initial 20 minutes of broiling, once the chicken has started to brown.
How do I apply the marinade?
Carefully brush the marinade generously over both sides of the chicken pieces.
How long do I cook the chicken after adding the marinade?
Continue broiling for another 5 to 15 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked.
What is the safe internal temperature for the chicken?
The chicken is safe to eat once it reaches an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C).
How can I tell if the chicken is done without a thermometer?
The chicken should no longer be pink in the center when sliced.
Should I add more marinade during the final cooking stage?
Yes, brush the chicken frequently with the remaining marinade during the last 5 minutes of cooking for maximum flavor.
Does the chicken need to rest after cooking?
Yes, let the chicken rest for a few minutes after removing it from the oven to keep it succulent.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe is designed to serve 6 people.
What are some recommended side dishes?
It pairs perfectly with a fresh garden salad or tropical coconut rice.
Is this a healthy recipe?
Yes, this is categorized as a healthy recipe focused on lean protein and fresh citrus flavors.
Can I use bottled lime juice?
While fresh is recommended for the best flavor, bottled juice can be used in a pinch.
What kind of oil should I use for the marinade?
Vegetable oil is recommended for the marinade base.
How much lime zest is required?
You will need 1/2 teaspoon of freshly grated lime zest.
Is this recipe suitable for a summer barbecue?
Absolutely, its zesty Caribbean flavors make it an ideal choice for outdoor gatherings or summer meals.
What kind of salt is best?
The recipe specifically calls for 1/2 teaspoon of kosher salt.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 8 main ingredients, including the chicken and the marinade components.
Is this recipe easy for beginners?
Yes, it is tagged as an easy recipe with straightforward broiling and mixing steps.
Can I use this marinade for other meats?
While designed for chicken, this zesty lime marinade would also work well with shrimp or white fish.
Why is the chicken broiled before adding the marinade?
Broiling first helps brown the skin and cook the meat partially so the marinade doesn't burn during the longer cook time.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.