Cheddar's Key West Chicken and Shrimp Copycat Recipe
DifficultyEasy
Total time1 hour30 minutes
Servings4
Tropical Flavors at Home: Cheddar's Key West Chicken & Shrimp Recipe
Introduction: A Taste of the Florida Keys
Hey there! I'm thrilled to share a slice of the tropics right in your kitchen with the Cheddar's Restaurant Key West Chicken and Shrimp recipe. Imagine the melding of tangy pineapple salsa, succulent shrimp, and perfectly grilled chicken, all bursting with the vibrant flavors of the Florida Keys. This dish is a testament to how a unique blend of ingredients can transport you to sunny shores without leaving home. What's even better? You can recreate this mouthwatering dish at an incredibly affordable price. So, if you're ready to add some tropical flair to your mealtime, keep reading – because this copycat recipe is about to make waves in your kitchen.
Key Takeaways:
- Experience the tropics at home with this flavorful fusion of chicken, shrimp, and pineapple salsa.
- Unique ingredients come together to bring the essence of the Florida Keys right to your table.
- Restaurant-quality taste made affordable and approachable for any home cook.
Gathering Your Ingredients
Starting with the right ingredients is key. First things you'll need are blend of soy sauce, a dash of honey for that perfect hint of sweetness, and the zest of a famous key west lime juice to give our chicken breasts and shrimp that great soy-lime flavor. For our vibrant pineapple salsa, gather up fresh pineapple, red onion, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. If you're catering to a medically restrictive diet, don't fret; swapping out the soy sauce for coconut aminos is a fantastic way to keep all those great blend of flavors without any worry. Remember, the fresher the ingredients, the deeper the flavors, making for a delicious meal that echoes the essence of Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen.
Marinating Magic: Preparing Your Proteins
Getting those tropical flavors to burst through in every bite of our Cheddar's Key West Chicken and Shrimp recipe begins with a bit of marinating magic. Now, here's the lowdown: the key is not only in the blend of soy sauce, fresh lime juice, and that hint of honey but also in the timing and technique. I can't stress enough the importance of a shallow container for this dance of flavors; it ensures that every inch of chicken and shrimp gets its fair share of that mouthwatering marinade. And yes, timing is pretty crucial here. Marinate the chicken breasts for about an hour, but those shrimp, they only need about 15 minutes—any longer and we're talking a potentially rubbery disaster. Don't forget, a stint in the refrigerator keeps everything chill while the flavors meld together beautifully, setting you up for that tropical taste escapade right in your own kitchen.
Crafting the Pineapple Pico de Gallo
Alright, let's dive into making the heart and soul of our tropical dish - the Pineapple Pico de Gallo. Imagine the zesty burst of flavors lighting up your taste buds with every bite. We begin by lovingly combining diced pineapple, its sweetness a nod to those sun-soaked Florida Keys. To this, we add vegetables, and cilantro, freshly chopped, infusing the mix with freshness and vibrancy. The pineapple isn't just there to remind us of palm trees swaying in the breeze; it's the core of our tropical taste, turning a simple meal into a feast for the senses.
But here's where you get to play - the jalapeno. Depending on how much of a kick you want, adjust the amount of diced jalapeno. A little for a gentle hum or more for a sizzling dance on your tongue. Remember, it's all about finding that perfect balance that speaks to you and transports you right to the heart of Cheddar's Key West vibes from the comfort of your home.
The Grilling Guide
Grilling these marinated beauties on an indoor or outdoor grill couldn't be simpler, yet it's this step that locks in those tantalizing tropical flavors we’re after. First off, give those grates a good brush and swipe them with a tablespoon olive oil – this little trick is a game-changer to prevent our chicken and shrimp from sticking. Now, let’s talk chicken breasts: place them on the grill over medium-high heat, and watch as those grill marks start to form, flipping once to ensure an even cook. But here’s the key - we want juiciness, not dryness, so keep an eye on them!
As for the shrimp, they require your undivided attention. These guys cook fast, so a minute or two per side should do it, just until they're pink and opaque. Remember, achieving those perfect grill marks on both the shrimp and chicken adds not just visual appeal but ramps up the flavor too. A little attention here ensures every bite is a mini escape to the Florida Keys, without the fear of overcooked shrimp or underwhelming presentation.
Assembling the Dish
Layering the chicken, pineapple pico de gallo, and shrimp from our tropical escapade starts with placing each chicken breast on a plate as a warm, welcoming bed. Spoon an abundant scoop of vibrant pineapple pico de gallo on top, ensuring each piece gets a good share of those zesty bits. But wait, it doesn’t stop there. Crown this assembly with an array of perfectly grilled shrimp, their char marks singing of flavor and the smoky whispers of an outdoor grill. Don't forget to sprinkle generously with fresh cilantro and those lively lime slices that add just the right touch of zesty flair.
Here's where I urge you to let your inner artist out — think of your plate as a canvas, these ingredients as your palette, and impress not just with taste but with a serving that captivates at first glance. Creativity in plating isn't just encouraged; it's practically mandatory for a completely immersive tropical dining experience. So dive in, and let those Tropical Flavors at Home make a splash!
Side Dish Suggestions
Now, let's talk about jazzing up this tropical chicken dish with sides of your choice that will take your palate for a joyride. Personally, I'm all about balance in a meal. So, insight from my culinary adventures suggests two stellar performers: cauliflower rice and a tossed salad. Imagine the fluffy, light cauliflower rice soaking up all those mouthwatering juices, adding a healthy yet delightful twist. And who can resist the crisp, refreshing embrace of a vibrant salad? It's like a splash of colors on your plate, making the meal not just a feast for your taste buds but also a visual delight.
Let me nudge you, my fellow food adventurers, this is a great way to get creative with these sides. There's a whole spectrum of possibilities out there! Maybe toss in some red bell peppers or onion rings into that salad for an extra crunch, or stir some mango salsa into your cauliflower rice for that unexpected pop of sweetness. It's all about creating a meal that's a vibrant symphony of flavors and textures. And remember, the more color, the more nutrients, so don't hold back. Make your plate your canvas and let the tropical vibes of Cheddar's Key West Chicken and Shrimp dish inspire you.
Setting the Tropical Table
Diving into this dish takes more than just a keen sense of taste; it’s about creating an ambiance that teleports you straight to the sandy shores of the Florida Keys. To capture that essence, I love draping my dining table with vibrant tablecloths that scream tropical paradise. Coconut shell bowls are a must-have for me - they add such an authentic touch and really tie the whole theme together. And don’t even get me started on themed decorations; think tiny umbrellas, flamboyant flowers, and anything that brings that sun-kissed vibe indoors. To top it all off, I play tropical music in the background. It’s like the cherry on top that sets the whole mood, making you feel as if you’re dining by the beach, with the gentle breeze playing with your hair. Trust me, it makes every bite of this Cheddar’s Key West Chicken & Shrimp dish taste like a mini vacation.
As you present this beautiful creation, your loved ones will be drawn in by the irresistible flavors and eye-catching presentation.
Krystel’s Cooking
A Toast to Your Culinary Trip to the Keys
Ah, a journey through flavors and sights unseen, all from our very own kitchens. Bringing a taste of the Florida Keys into our homes with this Cheddar's Key West Chicken and Shrimp Recipe feels like a mini-vacation, doesn't it? The tropical blend of fresh lime juice, mouthwatering mango salsa, and the zest of red bell peppers somehow manages to transport us, no plane ticket required. Each bite reminds us that great food doesn't just fill our bellies; it enriches our lives.
I'm so curious to see how you've made this dish uniquely yours. Did you throw in some extra chili powder for a bit more kick? Or maybe you decided to swap out the shrimp for a top sirloin steak for a surf and turf version Cheddar's @cheddar would envy. Whichever personal twist you added, I’m all ears (or eyes, I should say)! Share your stories, your photos, and let's inspire each other with our culinary adventures. Let's keep this tropical vibe going strong, shall we?
If you love copycat recipes check out my Houston's Hawaiian Ribeye Recipe!
Ingredients
- Pineapple Pico de Gallo:
- ¾ cup diced fresh pineapple
- ¼ cup diced red onion
- ¼ cup minced jalapeno pepper
- ¼ cup diced tomato
- 3 tablespoons minced fresh cilantro
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 1 pinch salt
- Chicken and Shrimp:
- ½ cup orange juice
- ½ cup minced jalapeno peppers
- ¼ cup white wine vinegar
- 1 lime zested and juiced
- 2 tablespoons avocado oil
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon granulated garlic
- salt and black pepper to taste
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 pound large shrimp peeled and deveined
Instructions
- Mix together pineapple, red onion, ¼ cup finely chopped jalapeño, tomato, 3 tablespoons of chopped cilantro, 2 tablespoons of lime juice, and a pinch of salt in a non-reactive bowl until well combined. Chill in the refrigerator until needed.
- In a bowl with a lid, combine orange juice, ½ cup of finely chopped jalapeño, white wine vinegar, zest and juice of 1 lime, avocado oil, honey, soy sauce, granulated garlic, salt, and black pepper. Stir until thoroughly mixed.
- Evenly pound the chicken to a consistent thickness and place it in an 11x7-inch baking dish. Pour half of the marinade over the chicken, cover, and refrigerate for 1 hour, flipping halfway through.
- Store the remaining marinade covered in the refrigerator until ready to use.
- After the chicken has marinated for 45 minutes, add the shrimp to the bowl with the reserved marinade and toss to coat thoroughly. Cover and refrigerate for 15 minutes.
- Remove the shrimp from the marinade, leaving them slightly wet. Thread the shrimp onto metal skewers and chill until ready to use. Discard the marinade.
- Preheat an outdoor grill to medium heat. Clean and oil the grill grates using tongs and an oiled paper towel.
- Remove the chicken from the marinade, discarding the excess. Grill the chicken until cooked through, approximately 4 to 5 minutes per side, depending on thickness. The internal temperature should reach at least 165 degrees F (74 degrees C). Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and tent with foil to keep warm.
- Grill the shrimp skewers until they are opaque and lightly charred, about 1 to 2 minutes per side.
- To serve, plate each chicken breast with pineapple pico de gallo on top. Arrange the grilled shrimp on top and garnish with lime slices and additional cilantro, if desired.
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