Caribbean Lemon Chicken

Prep: 15 min Cook: 40 min Serves: 4 Cuisine: Caribbean

A vibrant Caribbean-inspired lemon chicken featuring tangy lemon and spicy Tabasco flavors, perfect for those who enjoy bold, zesty grilled or broiled poultry dishes.

Be the first to rate this recipe

Ingredients

  • 3 lb. frying chicken, quartered
  • 1/2 cup Kikkoman teriyaki sauce
  • 1 teaspoon grated lemon peel
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 2 teaspoons Tabasco sauce

Instructions

  1. Place chicken pieces in a large plastic food storage bag.
  2. Combine teriyaki sauce, lemon peel, lemon juice, Tabasco sauce, and cinnamon in a bowl.
  3. Pour the marinade over the chicken in the bag.
  4. Press air out of the bag and close the top securely.
  5. Turn the bag over several times to coat the chicken well.
  6. Refrigerate overnight, turning the bag over occasionally.
  7. Remove chicken from the bag and broil or grill 5 to 7 inches from the heat source for 40 minutes or until the chicken is tender.
  8. Turn the chicken occasionally during cooking.

Tips & Substitutions

For a deeper flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 12 hours instead of overnight. If you don't have teriyaki sauce, a mix of soy sauce, honey, and ginger can work as a substitute. For a spicier kick, increase the amount of Tabasco sauce or add crushed red pepper flakes. Make sure to baste the chicken occasionally while cooking for an even glaze.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Caribbean Lemon Chicken with a side of coconut rice to enhance the tropical flavors. Grilled vegetables or a fresh salad can add a nice crunch. This dish pairs beautifully with Easy French Onion Soup for a comforting meal or alongside Lainey'S Arroz Con Pollo(Rice With Chicken) for a fusion feast.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. You can also use a microwave, but be careful not to dry it out.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Caribbean Lemon Chicken contains roughly 115 calories, with 3g protein, 25g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is a good source of potassium (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1257mg per serving (55% of the Daily Value).

115 kcal 6% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 3.3g 7% DV
Total Fat 0.3g
Carbs 25g 9% DV
Fiber 1.4g 5% DV
Sugar 9.1g 18% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1256.7mg 55% DV
Potassium 460.9mg 10% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 1.4mcg
Vitamin C 0.2mg
Calcium 59.9mg 5% DV
Iron 0.9mg 5% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal Low-fat

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?

Yes, boneless chicken can be used, but adjust the cooking time as it will cook faster. Check for doneness around 25-30 minutes of grilling or broiling. Ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safety.

What can I substitute for the Tabasco sauce?

If you prefer less heat, you can substitute Tabasco sauce with a milder hot sauce or omit it entirely. Alternatively, a dash of cayenne pepper or sriracha can provide some spice without overwhelming the dish.

Is this recipe suitable for grilling?

Absolutely! The marinade is perfect for grilling. Just ensure your grill is preheated, and cook the chicken over medium heat, turning occasionally, until fully cooked. This method can impart a wonderful smoky flavor.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

Chicken recipes → All recipes →