Get ready to transform your ordinary dinner into a flavor explosion that'll make your taste buds dance! This Chile Lime Chicken isn't just a recipe; it's a culinary journey that combines zesty Mexican-inspired flavors with perfectly grilled, juicy chicken. Imagine tender, succulent chicken breasts infused with tangy lime and bold chili spices, creating a mouthwatering dish that's both simple to prepare and incredibly impressive. Whether you're a grilling novice or a backyard BBQ master, this recipe will elevate your cooking game and have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 2 limes, juiced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to ensure even seasoning and better grill marks.
- In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to create a marinade.
- Place chicken breasts in a large resealable plastic bag and pour the marinade over them, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated.
- Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes (or up to 2 hours for more intense flavor), turning the bag occasionally to distribute marinade evenly.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (around 375-400°F), cleaning and oiling the grates to prevent sticking.
- Remove chicken from marinade and discard remaining liquid. Let excess marinade drip off before placing on the grill.
- Grill chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F when checked with a meat thermometer.
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after grilling to allow juices to redistribute, which keeps the meat tender and moist.
- Slice chicken and garnish with additional lime wedges if desired, and serve hot.
Tips
- Pat chicken dry before marinating to ensure the seasonings stick and create beautiful grill marks.
- Don't rush the marinating process - even 15 minutes can boost flavor, but 2 hours is ideal for maximum taste.
- Always preheat your grill and clean the grates to prevent sticking and achieve those perfect char lines.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F - no guesswork, just perfectly cooked meat.
- Let the chicken rest after grilling to keep it juicy and tender. Patience is key!
- For extra flavor, consider adding fresh cilantro or a sprinkle of extra chili powder before serving.
- If you don't have a grill, this recipe works great on a grill pan or even in the oven.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 279kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 140mg
