Citrus Land of Lincoln

The Citrus Land of Lincoln is a homage to the great state of Illinois, home of Abraham Lincoln, and its vibrant culinary heritage. This recipe combines citrus flavors with traditional Midwestern ingredients to create a unique and refreshing dish. Known for its fertile farmland, Illinois provides an abundance of fresh produce, making it an ideal source for vibrant citrus fruits that brighten up any meal.

Ingredients

• Oranges
• Lemons
• Limes
• Chicken Breast
• Olive Oil
• Garlic
• Honey
• Thyme
• Salt
• Black Pepper
• Carrots
• Asparagus
• New Potatoes
• Parsley

Preparation

Begin by gathering all your oranges, lemons, and limes. Wash them thoroughly and zest each of them. Make sure to keep the zest thin to avoid the bitter white pith. Once zested, juice each fruit into a mixing bowl, ensuring there are no seeds.

Next, take the chicken breast and pat it dry with a paper towel. In a separate bowl, combine olive oil, garlic (minced), and half of the citrus zest and juice. Add honey, thyme, salt, and black pepper to taste. Whisk the mixture until it emulsifies into a marinade.

Place the chicken breast in a resealable bag or a shallow dish and cover with the marinade. Ensure each piece is well-coated, then seal and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat, making it juicy and tender.

Preparing the Vegetables

While the chicken marinates, prepare the carrots, asparagus, and new potatoes. Peel and chop the carrots, trim the asparagus, and halve the new potatoes. Toss them all together with a drizzle of olive oil, remaining citrus zest, salt, and black pepper.

Cooking Process

Roasting the Vegetables

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the prepared vegetables onto a baking sheet, ensuring they have enough room and are not overcrowded, as this helps them roast evenly. Slide them into the preheated oven and roast for approximately 25-30 minutes, or until they are caramelized and tender, stirring halfway through to ensure even cooking.

Grilling the Chicken

While the vegetables roast, remove the marinated chicken breast from the refrigerator. Heat a grill or a grill pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, place the chicken on the grill, and discard the remaining marinade.

Grill each side of the chicken breast for about 6-7 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). The outside should have a nice char while the inside remains juicy. You can use a cooking timer to keep track of the time.

Remove the grilled chicken from the heat and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This rest period helps redistribute the juices within the meat.

Serving the Citrus Land of Lincoln

Serve the sliced grilled chicken breast on a platter. Arrange the roasted carrots, asparagus, and new potatoes around the chicken slices. Drizzle some fresh citrus juice over the top for an added zing.

Garnish the dish with chopped parsley for a touch of color and freshness. The vibrant colors and aromatic flavors will make the perfect centerpiece for your dinner table.

How to Enjoy

The Citrus Land of Lincoln is best enjoyed with a glass of chilled white wine or a light, citrusy mocktail. The citrus notes in the dish pair beautifully with these beverages, enhancing the overall dining experience. Gather your family or friends around, share the story of its Midwestern roots, and enjoy this refreshing and zesty meal that pays homage to the heart of America.

Each bite offers a blend of savory and sweet flavors with a hint of acidity, creating a meal that is as satisfying as it is memorable.