Chili Lime Chicken is a zesty dish that brings a tasty twist to your dinner table. It’s marinated in a mix of spicy chili and tangy lime, giving it a burst of flavor that tickles your taste buds!
I love how easy it is to make this chicken. Just marinate, grill, and enjoy! Pair it with rice or a fresh salad, and you’ve got a meal that’s both simple and satisfying!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are used for their tenderness and quick cooking. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey breasts work well too. Alternatively, try using chicken thighs for more flavor and juiciness.
Olive Oil: This adds moisture and helps the spices stick to the chicken. If you’re out of olive oil, avocado oil is a great substitute for a similar effect. Both have high smoking points, making them suitable for grilling.
Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice brightens the dish. If you don’t have fresh limes, bottled lime juice can work in a pinch, but the taste won’t be as fresh. Lemon juice can also be a good alternative, giving a different citrus twist.
Chili Powder: This is essential for that spicy kick. Consider using cayenne pepper for more heat or a blend of chili powders for deeper flavor. Adjust to your heat tolerance!
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a lovely brightness. If you’re not a fan, parsley can be a good substitute, although it has a milder flavor. Just remember to multiply the amount to match your taste preference.
How Do You Grill Chicken to Keep It Juicy?
Grilling chicken can be tricky, but with the right technique, it can be juicy and flavorful every time. The key is in the marinade, cooking time, and temperature. Here are some tips:
- Marinate for at least 30 minutes, but letting it sit for up to 4 hours intensifies the flavor.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high to achieve a good sear. A hot grill seals the juices inside.
- Avoid flipping the chicken too much. Grill each side for 6-7 minutes until it reaches 165°F (75°C) internally.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping it moist.
Delicious Chili Lime Chicken Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Marinade:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Toppings:
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup red onion, diced
- 1/4 cup green onion, sliced
- Lime wedges (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare, plus at least 30 minutes for marinating. You’ll grill the chicken for about 12-14 minutes. In total, plan for approximately 1 hour if you marinate for 30 minutes, or longer if you choose to marinate for up to 4 hours for extra flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, fresh lime juice, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper. This mixture will add a delicious flavor to your chicken!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Take the chicken breasts and place them in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece is coated well. Seal the bag or cover the dish and put it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. If you have time, letting it sit for up to 4 hours will really boost the flavor!
3. Grill the Chicken:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade, discarding any leftover marinade. Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C), ensuring it’s cooked through and juicy.
4. Prepare the Toppings:
While the chicken is grilling, mix the diced tomatoes, red onion, green onion, and chopped cilantro in a separate bowl. Add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste—this fresh topping will complement your chicken perfectly!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
After grilling, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing it. Serve the sliced chili lime chicken over your favorite rice or cauliflower rice, topped with that tasty fresh tomato mixture. Don’t forget to add lime wedges on the side for some extra zing!
Enjoy your flavorful Chili Lime Chicken!
Can I Use Boneless Thighs Instead of Chicken Breasts?
Absolutely! Boneless chicken thighs will work beautifully in this recipe. Just adjust the grilling time slightly, as thighs may take a couple of extra minutes to reach the proper internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Limes?
No worries! You can substitute fresh lime juice with bottled lime juice. Use about 2 tablespoons as it can be more concentrated. However, fresh juice will provide a brighter flavor, so if you can, opt for fresh limes when possible!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chili lime chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave on low until heated through, or heat in a skillet over medium-low heat to keep the chicken juicy.
Can I Prepare the Marinade in Advance?
Yes, you can make the marinade a day ahead! Just mix all the marinade ingredients in a bowl, cover, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to cook, simply add the chicken, and you’ll have a fantastic meal ready in no time!
