Key West Chicken & Shrimp from Cheddar's Scratch Kitchen features tender grilled chicken breast and succulent shrimp sauteed with fresh vegetables, all served over a bed of seasoned rice and topped with a zesty, tangy citrus glaze for a vibrant and flavorful meal.
Equipments
- Grill or grill pan
- Saute pan or skillet
- Tongs
- Mixing bowls
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring spoons
- Measuring cups
- Citrus juicer or reamer
- Spoon or spatula
- Saucepan (for rice)
- Plate or serving platter
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8 oz (225g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 red bell pepper
- 1 green bell pepper
- 1 small red onion
- 1 zucchini
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1 lime
- 1 lemon
- 1 orange
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Cayenne pepper (optional)
Ensure the chicken breasts are boneless and skinless for even grilling and tender texture. Use large shrimp that are peeled and deveined to maintain a succulent bite and ease of cooking. Fresh vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and red onion add vibrant color and nutrition while enhancing the dish's flavor profile. Measuring citrus juices precisely with a juicer or reamer is important to balance the zesty glaze made from lime, lemon, and orange. Your Key West Chicken & Shrimp copycat from Cheddar's Scratch Kitchen replicates the original's vibrant citrus glaze and perfectly seasoned rice for an authentic dining experience.
Instructions
- Cook rice in a saucepan according to package instructions; set aside.
- Juice the lime, lemon, and orange into a mixing bowl.
- Add honey, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (optional) to the citrus juice; whisk to combine for the glaze.
- Slice red bell pepper, green bell pepper, red onion, and zucchini.
- Mince garlic.
- Season chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil.
- Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
- Grill chicken breasts for about 6–7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked; set aside to rest.
- Toss shrimp with a little salt, black pepper, and olive oil.
- In a sauté pan or skillet over medium-high heat, add shrimp and cook 2–3 minutes until just pink; remove and set aside.
- In the same pan, add more olive oil if needed, and sauté bell peppers, onion, zucchini, and garlic until tender-crisp.
- Return shrimp to the pan and pour in half the citrus glaze; toss to coat and heat through.
- Fluff cooked rice and spread as a bed on a plate or serving platter.
- Slice grilled chicken and arrange over the rice.
- Top with sautéed shrimp and vegetables.
- Drizzle remaining citrus glaze over the entire dish.
- Garnish with fresh parsley.
- Serve immediately.
Substitution
Key West Chicken & Shrimp from Cheddar's Scratch Kitchen delivers a perfect balance of grilled chicken, sauteed shrimp, and vibrant vegetables atop seasoned rice with a citrus glaze. If you don't have access to fresh bell peppers, frozen or canned varieties can be used without compromising much on flavor. Shrimp can be replaced with scallops or firm fish fillets for a different seafood twist. When grilling chicken, ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165degF (74degC) to guarantee it is fully cooked and safe to eat. You can substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar to maintain the glaze's sweetness in your kitchen.
Tips
Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165degF (74degC) to guarantee it is fully cooked and safe to eat. When grilling, allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after cooking to retain its juices and enhance tenderness. Use fresh citrus juice for the glaze, as bottled juice can alter the flavor profile of the dish. Remember to cook shrimp just until pink and opaque to avoid overcooking, which can lead to a rubbery texture in your Key West Chicken & Shrimp meal.
Nutritions
Key West Chicken & Shrimp provides a balanced nutrient profile rich in lean protein from both grilled chicken breasts and shrimp, essential for muscle repair and growth. The inclusion of fresh vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and red onion adds dietary fiber, vitamins A and C, and antioxidants that support immune health. The citrus glaze, made from lime, lemon, and orange juices combined with honey and soy sauce, offers natural flavors without excessive calories or added sugars. Your meal also benefits from healthy fats in olive oil and the energy-giving carbohydrates from long-grain white rice, making it a flavorful yet nutritious choice.
Storage
Store leftover Key West Chicken & Shrimp in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent moisture loss. Refrigerate promptly and consume within 3 days for optimal taste and safety. When reheating, warm the dish evenly in a microwave or skillet to retain the vibrant citrus glaze and tender texture.
Variation or Alternatives
You can swap the long-grain white rice with jasmine or basmati rice to add a fragrant touch to your Key West Chicken & Shrimp. Instead of grilling, try baking the chicken breasts at 400degF (200degC) for 20-25 minutes for a juicier texture. For a spicier kick, mix in a teaspoon of smoked paprika or chipotle powder into the citrus glaze. To accommodate dietary preferences, substitute honey with agave nectar or maple syrup without sacrificing sweetness.
Allergies
The Key West Chicken & Shrimp dish contains seafood (shrimp) and soy sauce, both of which are common allergens that may affect individuals with shellfish or soy allergies. The presence of citrus fruits like lime, lemon, and orange could also trigger reactions in people sensitive to citrus allergens. You should always inform the restaurant about any allergies to prevent cross-contact or exposure when ordering this meal.
Why this recipe?
The Key West Chicken & Shrimp menu from Cheddar's Scratch Kitchen is loved for its vibrant flavors combining tender grilled chicken with succulent shrimp, seasoned to perfection with a blend of spices and served with fresh, zesty sides. The dish offers a perfect balance of protein and bold taste, making it a satisfying and crave-worthy option for seafood and poultry lovers alike. You will find the copycat recipe worth trying because it allows you to recreate a gourmet experience at home, capturing the authentic taste and freshness without the restaurant price. Mastering this dish enhances your culinary skills while bringing a beloved restaurant favorite directly to your kitchen table.