This Easy Chili Lime Chicken recipe is a winner! Juicy chicken is marinated in a zesty mix of lime juice and chili spices that will make your taste buds dance!
I love serving this chicken with rice or a fresh salad. It’s quick to make, and you’ll look like a kitchen superstar without the fuss. Trust me; you’ll want to make it again! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: I recommend boneless skinless thighs since they stay juicy and tender. If you don’t have them, chicken breasts work, but be careful not to overcook them as they can dry out.
Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice brightens the dish. If you’re out of fresh limes, bottled lime juice works in a pinch. Just remember, fresh juice is always tastier!
Chili Powder: This gives the chicken its signature flavor. If you want more heat, consider using cayenne pepper instead. For a milder version, swap it with paprika alone.
Honey or Brown Sugar: This optional ingredient balances the lime’s acidity. For a sugar-free substitute, you can use a splash of maple syrup or agave syrup.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Is Grilled Perfectly?
Grilling chicken can be tricky, but with a few tips, you can achieve perfect results every time:
- Preheat your grill or skillet well before adding the chicken. A hot surface creates a good sear, locking in juices.
- Use tongs to flip the chicken only once during cooking. This helps develop those beautiful grill marks.
- Check the internal temperature at the thickest part of the chicken; it should reach 165°F (74°C) for safety. Use a meat thermometer for best accuracy.
- If you notice flare-ups, move the chicken to a cooler part of the grill to prevent burning.
With these tips and ingredient swaps, you’ll master this Easy Chili Lime Chicken and impress anyone who tries it!
Easy Chili Lime Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to heat preference)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar (optional for balance)
- Lime slices, for garnish
- Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of preparation time and at least 30 minutes of marinating time. If you’d like to enhance the flavors, marinating for 1-2 hours is recommended. Cooking will take about 15 minutes, bringing the total to around 55 minutes (plus marinating) to enjoy a tasty chili lime chicken dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, minced garlic, lime juice, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, black pepper, and honey or brown sugar if you’re using it. This zesty marinade is what gives the chicken its amazing flavor!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the chicken thighs to the bowl and toss them well, ensuring each piece is coated evenly with the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid, and let it sit in the fridge. The longer the chicken marinates, the better the flavor, so aim for at least 30 minutes, but 1-2 hours is best!
3. Cook the Chicken:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill or a large skillet over medium-high heat. If you prefer, you can also use an oven broiler. Once hot, cook the chicken thighs for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until they are nicely charred at the edges and cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C).
4. Serve and Garnish:
Once cooked, place the chicken on a serving platter. If you have any reserved marinade (that hasn’t touched raw chicken), you can drizzle it over the chicken for extra flavor. Garnish with fresh lime slices and chopped cilantro for a beautiful presentation.
5. Enjoy!
Serve your delicious Easy Chili Lime Chicken hot, alongside rice, tortillas, or a fresh salad. Enjoy the burst of flavors!
FAQ for Easy Chili Lime Chicken
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Yes, you can definitely use boneless skinless chicken breasts! Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as they may cook faster than thighs and can dry out if overcooked. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of chili powder and crushed red pepper flakes or omit them altogether. For more heat, add additional crushed red pepper or a splash of hot sauce in the marinade.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently in the microwave or on the stovetop over a low flame to prevent drying out.
Can I Make the Marinade in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the marinade a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Just add the chicken when you’re ready to cook. Marinating longer enhances the flavor, so that’s a great option!
