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Key West Lime Chicken Recipe

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4 from 72 reviews

This Key West Lime Chicken recipe offers a vibrant and tangy marinade combining soy sauce, honey, lime juice, garlic, and vegetable oil to infuse juicy, bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs with bold flavors. Ideal for a quick stovetop meal, the chicken is marinated and then pan-seared to a perfect golden crisp, delivering a succulent and aromatic dish inspired by the fresh citrus tastes of Key West.

Ingredients

Marinade Ingredients

  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • 2 cloves garlic, crushed

Main Ingredients

  • 5 chicken thighs, bone-in, skin-on

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, vegetable oil, lime juice, and crushed garlic until well combined, ensuring the honey is fully dissolved to create a smooth marinade.
  2. Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs in a shallow dish or resealable plastic bag and pour the marinade over them. Make sure each piece is fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for deeper flavor.
  3. Heat the Pan: Preheat a large skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat. Lightly grease the pan with a teaspoon of vegetable oil to prevent sticking and promote even browning.
  4. Cook the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing excess to drip off, then place the thighs skin-side down in the hot pan. Cook for about 7-8 minutes without moving them, until the skin is crispy and golden brown.
  5. Flip and Finish Cooking: Turn the chicken thighs over and reduce the heat to medium. Cover the pan loosely with a lid and cook for another 10-12 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the chicken is fully cooked through.
  6. Rest the Chicken: Transfer the chicken to a plate and let it rest for 5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute before serving. This ensures tender, juicy meat in every bite.

Notes

  • If you prefer, boneless chicken thighs can be used but adjust cooking time accordingly.
  • For a more intense lime flavor, zest one lime and add it to the marinade.
  • This recipe can be prepared ahead by marinating chicken overnight in the refrigerator.
  • Serve with steamed rice or a fresh green salad to balance the tangy flavors.
  • Make sure chicken is cooked to the safe internal temperature to avoid any foodborne illness.