Fiesta Lime Chicken Recipe

Mak Erot

3 min read

·

Mar 30, 2025

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Fiesta Lime Chicken Recipe: A Zesty Delight

This vibrant Fiesta Lime Chicken recipe is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser! It's packed with zesty lime flavor, a touch of spice, and tender, juicy chicken. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a fun weekend gathering, this recipe is easy to follow and customizable to your taste. Let's get cooking!

Ingredients You'll Need:

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Choose high-quality chicken for the best flavor.
• 1/4 cup lime juice: Freshly squeezed is best, but bottled works in a pinch.
• 1/4 cup olive oil: Provides richness and helps the chicken stay moist.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a savory depth of flavor.
• 1 tablespoon chili powder: Adjust to your preferred spice level.
• 1 teaspoon cumin: Earthy and warm, it complements the lime perfectly.
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds a subtle smoky flavor.
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional): For an extra kick!
• Salt and pepper to taste: Season generously.
• Optional toppings: Chopped cilantro, avocado slices, sour cream, or shredded cheese.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Marinating the Chicken (The Key to Tenderness!):

1. Combine the marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper.
2. Marinate the chicken: Add the chicken breasts to the bowl, ensuring they're fully coated in the marinade. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or preferably 2-4 hours for maximum flavor. The longer it marinates, the more tender and flavorful the chicken will be.

Cooking the Chicken:

There are several ways to cook this delicious chicken:

Option 1: Grilling (for that smoky flavor):

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. Grill the chicken for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Option 2: Baking (easy and convenient):

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place the marinated chicken in a baking dish.
3. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.

Option 3: Pan-frying (quick weeknight option):

1. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Sear the chicken for 3-4 minutes per side, then transfer the skillet to a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven.
3. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until cooked through.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve your Fiesta Lime Chicken with your favorite sides! Some delicious options include:

• Mexican rice: A classic pairing.
• Black beans and corn salad: Adds freshness and texture.
• Grilled vegetables: Enhance the flavors.
• Flour or corn tortillas: Perfect for tacos or wraps.

Tips and Variations:

• Spice it up: Add more cayenne pepper or a pinch of chipotle powder for extra heat.
• Citrus twist: Add a little orange juice to the marinade for a brighter flavor.
• Herb it up: Incorporate fresh herbs like cilantro, oregano, or parsley.
• Make it a sheet pan meal: Roast the chicken alongside your favorite vegetables for an easy cleanup.

This Fiesta Lime Chicken recipe is a versatile and delicious meal that can be easily adapted to your preferences. Enjoy the vibrant flavors and the delightful aromas filling your kitchen! Remember to share your culinary creations using #FiestaLimeChicken. Happy cooking!