Description
Fiesta Lime Chicken Recipe: Juicy grilled chicken marinated in zesty lime and spices for a flavorful and refreshing dish. Crowd-pleasing and quick to make.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6–7 oz each)
- 3 tablespoons (45ml) fresh lime juice (approximately 2 medium limes)
- 2 tablespoons (30ml) olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (about 2 teaspoons)
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup (4g) fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 cup (113g) shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- For the topping:
- 1 cup (180g) pico de gallo (fresh tomato salsa)
- 1 avocado, diced (optional)
- 2 tablespoons (8g) fresh cilantro, chopped
- Lime wedges for serving
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the Marinade In a large bowl, combine the lime juice, olive oil, minced garlic, honey, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Whisk thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated. Add the chopped cilantro and stir to distribute evenly throughout the marinade. The vibrant aroma will immediately let you know you’re on your way to creating something special!
- Step 2: Marinate the Chicken Place the chicken breasts in a large zip-top bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Make sure each piece is completely coated by gently massaging the marinade into the meat. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or ideally 4-6 hours. For the best flavor infusion, turn the chicken occasionally during marination if possible.
- Step 3: Prepare for Cooking About 20 minutes before cooking, remove the chicken from the refrigerator to allow it to come to room temperature. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375-400°F) or heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. If using a skillet, add a tablespoon of oil when hot.
- Step 4: Cook the Chicken Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing excess to drip off. Discard the remaining marinade. Place the chicken on the hot grill or pan and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, depending on thickness. You’re looking for beautiful grill marks and an internal temperature of 165°F. The chicken should feel firm but still have some give when pressed with tongs.
- Step 5: Add the Cheese and Garnish Once the chicken reaches the correct temperature, top each piece with 1/4 cup of shredded Monterey Jack cheese. If grilling, close the lid for about 1 minute until cheese melts; if using a pan, cover it with a lid or aluminum foil. Transfer your Fiesta Lime Chicken to a serving platter and let it rest for 2-3 minutes. Top each piece with a generous spoonful of pico de gallo, diced avocado if using, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. Serve with lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of citrus freshness.
Notes
Fresh ingredients will always yield the best flavor results.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 345 calories per serving
- Sugar: 5 grams
- Sodium: 520 mg
- Fat: 20 grams
- Saturated Fat: 8 grams
- Unsaturated Fat: 11 grams
- Trans Fat: 0 grams
- Carbohydrates: 9 grams
- Fiber: 1 gram
- Protein: 33 grams
- Cholesterol: 90 mg