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Diamond-cut marinated citrus chicken on a fork with salad bowl underneath. Juicy orange-colored chicken showing easy marinade absorption.

Healthy Keto Citrus Chicken with Crunchy Walnuts | Easy Flavourful Dinner

Annie, Healthy Food by Annie
This juicy and tangy chicken dish with crunchy walnuts is a delicious and easy-to-make recipe that’s perfect for any season. The naturally citrusy and aromatic marinade made with fresh orange and lemon juice and zest will transform your chicken into a tender and juicy delight. The combination of the citrusy marinade and the crunchy walnuts is simply irresistible.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 8 minutes
Marinating Time 30 minutes
Total Time 48 minutes
Servings 3 people

Ingredients
  

  • 3 small boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 tablespoon orange zest
  • ⅓ cup fresh orange juice (one orange)
  • ½ tablespoon lemon zest
  • 2-3 tablespoon tablespoons fresh lemon juice (one lemon)
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon red hot chilli powder
  • ⅓ teaspoon dried rosemary
  • ⅓ teaspoon dried oregano
  • ⅓ teaspoon turmeric
  • 2 teaspoon olive oil
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ⅓ teaspoon salt
  • 4 tablespoon olive oil (for frying)
  • 50 g ·       walnuts or more

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the Chicken:
    Pat dry the chicken breasts with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture.
  • Score the Chicken:
    Using a sharp knife, make diagonal cuts across the surface of the chicken breast. Then, turn the chicken breast 90 degrees and make diagonal cuts in the opposite direction to create a diamond pattern. This helps the meat absorb the marinade, making it extra juicy and flavourful. For more details, see How to Cut Diamond Shapes into Chicken Breast.
  • Marinate the Chicken:
    In a bowl, add the chicken and all the marinade ingredients (orange zest, orange juice, lemon zest, lemon juice, smoked paprika, chilli powder, rosemary, oregano, turmeric, olive oil, black pepper, and salt). Mix everything well to coat the chicken evenly. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
    Easy step-by-step guide to marinating chicken with lemon, orange zest, and spices. Perfect for keto, paleo, or low-carb dinners.
  • Heat the Oil:
    Heat 4 tablespoons of olive oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, place the marinated chicken breasts, cut side down, in the pan and fry for about 4 minutes.
  • Add the Walnuts:
    While the chicken is cooking, add the walnuts to the leftover marinade in the bowl and stir to coat them in the sauce.
  • Cook the Chicken:
    Flip the chicken breasts over and add the walnuts to the pan. Continue frying for another 3-4 minutes, until the chicken is fully cooked and the walnuts are golden and crunchy.
  • Serve:
    Serve immediately and enjoy your tangy, delicious Citrus Chicken with crunchy walnut!
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