This Chili Lime Chicken is a tasty dish that’s full of zesty flavors! The chicken is marinated in juicy lime juice and spicy chili seasoning, making every bite exciting.
It’s perfect for a summer BBQ or a cozy dinner at home. I love serving it with rice or fresh veggies. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you for this zesty treat! 🌶️🍗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for grilling and absorbing flavors. You could use chicken thighs for a juicier option or tofu for a vegetarian meal.
Olive Oil: This adds richness and helps the marinade coat the chicken. If you’re out, avocado oil or even canola oil work well too!
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives a strong flavor, but jarred minced garlic can be used in a pinch. 2 teaspoons of jarred equals 3 fresh cloves.
Lime Juice and Zest: Fresh lime juice brightens the dish; always prefer fresh over bottled. Lemon juice can substitute for a different but still tangy flavor.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a nice herbaceous note. If you’re not a fan, parsley can be a good alternative.
Honey or Agave Syrup: This balances the acidity. Maple syrup can be swapped in if you’re vegan.
How Do I Marinate Chicken Properly?
Marinating chicken is key for flavor! Here’s how to get it just right:
- Combine all marinade ingredients in a bowl and whisk thoroughly.
- Place the chicken in a zip-top bag or dish, ensuring every piece is coated well.
- For best flavor, refrigerate for 1-2 hours, but 30 minutes works if you’re short on time.
Just remember to discard the marinade after use to ensure food safety! Enjoy the flavor-packed chicken!
How to Make Delicious Chili Lime Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
For the Marinade:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- Zest of 1 lime
- Juice of 2 limes
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 teaspoon honey or agave syrup
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For Serving:
- Lime wedges
- Extra chopped cilantro, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and requires at least 30 minutes of marinating time. The total time, including cooking on the grill, is around 40-50 minutes. Perfect for a quick and flavorful meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, cayenne pepper, lime zest, lime juice, chopped cilantro, honey, salt, and pepper. Whisk everything together until well mixed and smooth.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Take your chicken breasts and place them in a large zip-top bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring every piece is well covered. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or ideally for 1-2 hours to soak up all those delicious flavors!
3. Prepare the Grill:
While the chicken marinates, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. It’s also a good idea to lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
4. Grill the Chicken:
Once the grill is ready, take the chicken breasts out of the marinade (make sure to discard any leftover marinade). Place the chicken on the grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C), and you see nice grill marks.
5. Serve Your Chicken:
When the chicken is done, transfer it to a serving platter. Drizzle any juices from the grill or a little fresh lime juice over the top to add extra flavor.
6. Garnish and Enjoy:
Sprinkle extra chopped cilantro on top and serve with lime wedges on the side. You can also pair it with some fresh greens or a simple salad to brighten up your meal.
Now sit back, enjoy your delicious Chili Lime Chicken, and get ready for rave reviews!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s important to thaw it completely before marinating. Thaw chicken in the refrigerator overnight or quickly in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water for about an hour.
How Long Can I Marinate the Chicken?
The chicken can be marinated for at least 30 minutes, but for maximum flavor, aim for 1-2 hours. If you’re short on time, even 15-30 minutes can provide some tasty results!
What Can I Serve with Chili Lime Chicken?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad to complement the zesty flavors. Grilled vegetables or corn on the cob also make excellent choices!
How Do I Store Leftover Chicken?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of lime juice to maintain moisture. Enjoy your leftovers in a salad or as a filling in tacos!
