Key Lime Chicken
Juicy chicken marinated in vibrant key lime juice with aromatic ginger, thyme, and honey, then baked to perfection—ideal for a tangy, flavorful main dish that delights seafood lovers and citrus fans alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F.
- Place key lime juice, honey, water, salt, pepper, thyme, vegetable oil, and chopped ginger in a food processor or blender.
- Cover and process until ingredients are combined.
- Pour the mixture over the chicken and ensure it is well coated.
- Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a zesty twist, consider adding lime zest to the marinade. If you don't have Key lime juice, regular lime juice can be used as a substitute, though the flavor will be slightly different. Make sure to marinate the chicken for a few hours or overnight for maximum flavor absorption. This recipe can easily be adapted to work as a base for other chicken recipes, like Saucy Chicken And Pasta Dinner.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Key Lime Chicken alongside a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a light meal. It pairs beautifully with rice or quinoa to soak up the flavorful juices. For a complete dinner, consider serving it with Easy Chicken And Vegetables In Foil for a delightful family meal.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Key Lime Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. This method helps retain the chicken's moisture and flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Key Lime Chicken contains roughly 49 calories, with 3g protein, 9g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (60% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1835mg per serving (80% of the Daily Value).
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 frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it's best to thaw it completely before marinating and baking. This ensures even cooking and better flavor absorption from the marinade.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. You can use a meat thermometer to check this. Additionally, the juices should run clear, and the meat should no longer be pink.
Can I grill the chicken instead of baking it?
Absolutely! Grilling the chicken will add a wonderful smoky flavor. Preheat your grill and cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until it reaches the appropriate internal temperature.
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).