This Chili Lime Chicken is bursting with zesty flavors that will make your taste buds dance! Simple ingredients like chicken, lime, and spices come together for this tasty dish.
I love grilling this chicken for summer barbecues. It’s so easy, and I can serve it with rice or salad for a perfect meal. Your friends will think you’re a chef! 🌟
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this recipe as they cook evenly and are easy to marinate. You can also use thighs for a juicier taste, or even tofu if you want a vegetarian option.
Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice is key for tanginess. If fresh limes aren’t available, bottled lime juice can work in a pinch, but fresh is always better! You might also try lemon juice for a different, yet still zesty flavor.
Chili Powder: This is what gives the chicken its spiciness. If you want less heat, use sweet or mild chili powder. For a deeper flavor, chipotle powder can add a nice smoky touch, or you can mix in some cayenne pepper if you want more kick.
Smoked Paprika: Adding smoked paprika gives that extra depth of flavor. If unavailable, regular paprika can substitute, but you’ll miss the smokiness. Alternatively, a dash of liquid smoke can impart a similar effect.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro is a wonderful garnish that adds brightness. If you’re not a fan, try parsley or green onions instead. You could also skip the garnish entirely if you prefer.
How Do You Marinate Chicken Correctly?
Marinating chicken properly is vital for flavor and tenderness. Start by mixing the marinade well to ensure all spices are evenly distributed. Ensure the chicken is fully coated by turning it in the bowl. Covering it and refrigerating for at least 30 minutes allows time for those flavors to soak in.
- Use a resealable bag for easy coating and cleanup.
- Marinate for anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours. Longer for a stronger flavor, but not too long to avoid mushy chicken.
- Don’t skip letting excess marinade drip off before grilling to avoid flare-ups and excess moisture.
How to Make Chili Lime Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup lime juice (about 2-3 limes)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For Toppings:
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Fresh tomatoes, diced
- Red onion, diced
- Lime wedges (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 10 minutes for prep and at least 30 minutes for marinating, plus around 15 minutes for cooking. Altogether, plan for about 55 minutes to enjoy this tasty dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Chicken:
In a large bowl, mix together the lime juice, olive oil, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Once well combined, add the chicken breasts to this marinade, making sure they are coated evenly. Cover the bowl and pop it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes—longer, if you can, for more flavor!
2. Prepare the Grill:
While the chicken marinates, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you’re using a grill pan instead, just heat it over medium heat on the stove.
3. Cook the Chicken:
After marinating, take the chicken out of the fridge and let any excess marinade drip off. Put the chicken on the hot grill and cook it for about 6-7 minutes on each side. You’re looking for that delicious, golden grill mark and an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
4. Prepare the Toppings:
While the chicken is grilling away, make your fresh topping! In a bowl, mix together the diced tomatoes, diced red onion, and chopped cilantro. Season this mixture lightly with a pinch of salt and a squeeze of lime juice, and give it a good stir.
5. Serve:
After grilling, let your chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. Place the chicken on a plate, pile on the fresh tomato mixture, and sprinkle with extra cilantro. Don’t forget to add lime wedges on the side!
6. Enjoy:
Pair your chili lime chicken with rice, cauliflower rice, or any side you fancy for a fantastic meal. Enjoy the bright flavors of summer in every bite!
Can I Use a Different Type of Chicken?
Absolutely! You can use bone-in chicken thighs or drumsticks instead of chicken breasts for a juicier option. Just adjust the cooking time, as they may need a few extra minutes to reach the safe 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, but the flavor may not be as vibrant. Use about 2 tablespoons of bottled juice for this recipe. Just make sure it’s 100% lime juice for the best flavor!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chili lime chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, just pop it in the microwave or on the grill for a few minutes until heated through, adding a splash of lime juice to freshen up the flavor if needed.
Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
Definitely! If you love heat, consider adding some cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños to the marinade. You can also serve the chicken with a spicy salsa or hot sauce for an extra kick!
