Chili Lime Grilled Chicken

Chili Lime Grilled Chicken is a mouthwatering dish that perfectly balances zesty lime and spicy chili flavors. This recipe creates juicy, tender chicken thighs that are ideal for summer barbecues, family dinners, or casual gatherings. With its simple marinade and quick grilling time, this dish is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This Chili Lime Grilled Chicken takes just 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of fresh lime juice, cilantro, and chili powder delivers a vibrant taste that’s sure to impress.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it with rice, in tacos, or on its own—this chicken adapts to any meal occasion.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein and made with wholesome ingredients, this dish fits well into a balanced diet.
• Grill-Friendly: Perfect for outdoor cooking, it allows you to enjoy the great weather while preparing a fantastic meal.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools and equipment. Having everything ready will make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Tongs
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: This is crucial for achieving that perfect charred flavor on the chicken.
• Mixing Bowl: A large bowl allows for easy mixing of the marinade without spills.
• Whisk: Using a whisk ensures that all marinade ingredients are fully combined for even flavor distribution.

Ingredients

Chili lime chicken – moist and delicious chicken marinated with chili and lime and grilled to perfection. Easy recipe that takes 30 mins!

For the Chicken

• 2 – 2 1/2 lbs. (900g-1.1kg) skin on chicken thighs

For the Marinade

• 1/2 cup fresh lime juice
• 3 teaspoons fresh lime zest
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 4 tablespoons fresh cilantro (chopped finely)
• 2 jalapeño (chopped finely)
• 4 cloves garlic (chopped finely)
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon chili powder (or to taste)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Chili Lime Grilled Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Rinse the chicken thighs under cold water.
2. Remove the bones while keeping the skin intact.
3. Pat them dry with paper towels and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Marinade

1. In a big bowl, combine all marinade ingredients: lime juice, lime zest, olive oil, cilantro, jalapeños, garlic, honey, salt, and chili powder.
2. Whisk together until well mixed.

Step 3: Marinate the Chicken

1. Add the chicken thighs to the marinade.
2. Stir well to ensure each piece is evenly coated.
3. Cover and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours.

Step 4: Grill the Chicken

1. Preheat your grill over medium heat.
2. Brush a little oil on the grilling surface to prevent sticking.
3. Place some of the reserved garlic, cilantro, and jalapeño mix from the marinade on top of each chicken thigh.
4. Grill until golden brown and charred on both sides; this should take about 10 minutes total depending on thickness.

Enjoy your flavorful Chili Lime Grilled Chicken served hot!

How to Serve Chili Lime Grilled Chicken

Chili lime grilled chicken is a flavorful dish that pairs wonderfully with various sides and garnishes. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your meal.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Cilantro – Sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro on top for added freshness.
• Lime Wedges – Serve with lime wedges for an extra zesty kick.

Create a Wrap

• Tortillas – Use warm tortillas to make delicious wraps filled with grilled chicken and veggies.
• Avocado Slices – Add creamy avocado slices for richness and texture.

Serve with Salsa

• Pico de Gallo – A fresh salsa made with tomatoes, onion, cilantro, and lime complements the chicken’s flavors perfectly.
• Mango Salsa – For a sweeter twist, serve with mango salsa that balances the spice of the chicken.

How to Perfect Chili Lime Grilled Chicken

Cooking chili lime grilled chicken can be simple, but there are some tips to make it even better. Follow these suggestions for the best results.

• Marinate Longer – Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 2 hours or overnight for deeper flavor.
• Use a Meat Thermometer – Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for perfect doneness.
• Preheat Your Grill – A hot grill helps achieve those beautiful grill marks and seals in moisture.
• Monitor Cooking Time – Avoid overcooking by keeping an eye on the time; aim for about 10 minutes of grilling total.

Best Side Dishes for Chili Lime Grilled Chicken

Pairing your chili lime grilled chicken with the right sides can elevate your meal. Here are some great side dishes to consider.

1. Grilled Vegetables – Seasonal vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers grilled alongside the chicken enhance the meal’s freshness.
2. Mexican Rice – Fluffy rice cooked with spices offers a hearty complement to the juicy chicken.
3. Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn brushed with lime butter adds a delightful crunch and sweetness.
4. Black Bean Salad – A refreshing salad made with black beans, corn, and diced peppers provides protein and fiber.
5. Quinoa Salad – Nutty quinoa mixed with herbs and citrus balances well with the spiced flavors of the chicken.
6. Coleslaw – A crunchy slaw helps cut through the richness of grilled chicken, adding a nice texture contrast.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Chili Lime Grilled Chicken, it’s easy to make some common mistakes that can affect the flavor and texture of your dish. Here are a few pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the Marinade Time: Marinating your chicken for at least 2 hours allows the flavors to penetrate deeply. If you skip this step, your chicken may taste bland.
• Using Old Ingredients: Fresh ingredients make a difference. Ensure your lime juice and spices are fresh for the best flavor. Check for expiration dates before using them.
• Not Preheating the Grill: A preheated grill is essential for achieving that perfect char and juicy interior. Always preheat your grill before placing the chicken on it.
• Overcrowding the Grill: Placing too much chicken on the grill can lower the temperature and lead to uneven cooking. Grill in batches if necessary to ensure even grilling.
• Ignoring Internal Temperature: To ensure food safety and perfect doneness, use a meat thermometer. Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Duration: Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Containers: Use airtight containers to maintain freshness and prevent contamination.

Freezing Chili Lime Grilled Chicken

• Duration: You can freeze cooked chili lime chicken for up to 3 months.
• Containers: Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.

Reheating Chili Lime Grilled Chicken

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate. Cover with a damp paper towel and heat in intervals of 1 minute until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat with a little oil. Add the chicken, cover, and heat for about 5-7 minutes, flipping occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What goes well with Chili Lime Grilled Chicken?

Chili lime grilled chicken pairs beautifully with rice, corn salad, or grilled vegetables. These sides enhance its zesty flavors.

Can I use other cuts of chicken?

Yes! You can substitute skin-on chicken thighs with boneless breasts or drumsticks. Adjust grilling time as needed for different cuts.

How spicy is this Chili Lime Grilled Chicken?

The spiciness largely depends on the amount of jalapeño you use. For less heat, remove the seeds or reduce the quantity.

How do I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can marinate the chicken overnight in the refrigerator. Just be careful not to exceed 24 hours, as it may become too salty.

Can I customize this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other spices like cumin or paprika for added flavor. You can also adjust lime juice based on your taste preference.

Final Thoughts

Chili Lime Grilled Chicken is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Its zesty marinade infuses moisture and flavor into every bite, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or summer barbecues. Don’t hesitate to customize this recipe by adding your favorite herbs or spices to suit your taste! Give it a try; you won’t be disappointed!

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Chili Lime Grilled Chicken

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Chili Lime Grilled Chicken is the ultimate summer dish that combines the bold flavors of zesty lime and spicy chili to create an unforgettable meal. This recipe features juicy chicken thighs marinated in a vibrant blend of fresh lime juice, garlic, and cilantro, grilled to perfection for a smoky finish. Perfect for family gatherings, casual cookouts, or weeknight dinners, this dish is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly versatile. Serve it with rice, tuck it into tacos, or enjoy it on its own for a wholesome and delicious experience. With just 30 minutes of prep and cooking time, this mouthwatering chicken will be a favorite at your table.

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately four people 1x

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 – 2 1/2 lbs. skin-on chicken thighs
• 1/2 cup fresh lime juice
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 4 tablespoons fresh cilantro (chopped finely)
• 2 jalapeños (chopped finely)
• 4 cloves garlic (chopped finely)
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon chili powder

Instructions

1. Rinse and pat dry the chicken thighs. Remove bones while keeping the skin intact.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine lime juice, lime zest, olive oil, cilantro, jalapeños, garlic, honey, salt, and chili powder. Whisk until well blended.
3. Add chicken thighs to the marinade and coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
4. Preheat the grill over medium heat. Brush with oil to prevent sticking.
5. Grill chicken for about 10 minutes total or until golden brown with clear juices.

• Author: Jennifer
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 thigh (150g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 720mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 6g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 120mg

Keywords: For deeper flavor, marinate overnight if possible. Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Feel free to customize with additional spices like cumin or paprika based on your preference.