Discover the vibrant flavors of Chicken Kelaguen, a traditional dish featuring tender grilled chicken mixed with fresh lemon juice, shredded coconut, and a blend of aromatic spices. Perfect for a zesty and flavorful meal, this recipe brings the taste of the islands right to your table.

Ingredients:

- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

- 1 cup fresh lemon juice

- 1 cup shredded coconut (unsweetened)

- 2 tablespoons soy sauce

- 1 tablespoon olive oil

- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper

- 1 teaspoon garlic powder

- 1 teaspoon onion powder

- 1 teaspoon paprika

- 1 teaspoon ground cumin

- 1/2 teaspoon salt

- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

Marinate the Chicken:

  - In a bowl, combine the lemon juice, soy sauce, olive oil, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cumin, and salt.

  - Add the chicken breasts to the marinade, ensuring they are fully coated.

  - Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for best results.

Grill the Chicken:

  - Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.

  - Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the marinade.

  - Place the chicken on the grill and cook for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the chicken is no longer pink in the center.

  - Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes.

Prepare the Kelaguen Mixture:

  - While the chicken is resting, mix the shredded coconut with a little extra lemon juice and a pinch of salt in a bowl.

Serve:

  - Slice the grilled chicken and mix it with the coconut mixture.

  - Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro if desired.

  - Serve warm with your favorite side dishes or over a bed of rice.

Enjoy this flavorful Chicken Kelaguen, a delightful dish that combines grilled chicken with the tangy taste of lemon and the rich texture of coconut!

Nutritional Values

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts (4 breasts)

   - About 800 calories (for 4 breasts)

   - 4 grams of fat

   - 80 grams of protein

Benefits:

   - High in lean protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth.

   - Low in fat, making it a healthy choice for maintaining a balanced diet.

   - Provides essential nutrients like vitamins B6 and B12, and niacin.

Fresh Lemon Juice (1 cup)

   - About 60 calories

   - 16 grams of carbohydrates

   - 0 grams of fat or protein

Benefits:

   - Rich in vitamin C, which supports immune health and skin integrity.

   - Adds a tangy flavor without significant calories.

Shredded Coconut (Unsweetened, 1 cup)

   - About 200 calories

   - 18 grams of fat (16 grams of saturated fat)

   - 7 grams of carbohydrates

Benefits:

   - Provides healthy fats and fiber.

   - Contains minerals like manganese, copper, and iron.

Soy Sauce (2 tablespoons)

   - About 20 calories

   - 2 grams of carbohydrates

   - 1 gram of protein

Benefits:

   - Adds a savory, umami flavor.

   - Provides a small amount of sodium, which enhances taste but should be used in moderation.

Olive Oil (1 tablespoon)

   - About 120 calories

   - 14 grams of fat (2 grams of saturated fat)

Benefits:

   - Rich in monounsaturated fats and antioxidants.

   - Supports heart health and adds flavor to the dish.

Ground Black Pepper (1 teaspoon)

   - About 6 calories

   - 1 gram of carbohydrates

Benefits:

   - Contains antioxidants and may aid digestion.

   - Adds flavor without significant calories.

Garlic Powder (1 teaspoon)

   - About 5 calories

   - 1 gram of carbohydrates

Benefits:

   - Provides flavor with potential antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

   - Supports cardiovascular health.

Onion Powder (1 teaspoon)

   - About 8 calories

   - 2 grams of carbohydrates

Benefits:

   - Adds a mild onion flavor.

   - Contains antioxidants and supports immune function.

Paprika (1 teaspoon)

   - About 6 calories

   - 1 gram of carbohydrates

Benefits:

   - Rich in vitamins A and E.

   - Contains antioxidants and adds color and flavor to dishes.

Ground Cumin (1 teaspoon)

   - About 8 calories

   - 1 gram of carbohydrates

Benefits:

   - Provides iron and antioxidants.

   - May aid digestion and has anti-inflammatory properties.

Salt (½ teaspoon)

   - About 1,150 mg sodium

Benefits:

   - Enhances flavor.

   - Essential for fluid balance, but should be used in moderation to avoid excessive sodium intake.

Chopped Fresh Cilantro (2 tablespoons, optional)

   - About 1 calorie

   - 0 grams of carbohydrates

Benefits:

   - Rich in vitamins A, C, and K.

   - Contains antioxidants and supports digestion. Adds a fresh, vibrant garnish.

This breakdown should help you understand the nutritional profile and benefits of each ingredient used in your chicken recipe.