Chili Lime Grilled Chicken

Chili Lime Grilled Chicken is a flavorful dish that combines zesty lime and spicy chili for an unforgettable taste experience. Perfect for summer barbecues, family dinners, or even meal prep, this recipe brings vibrant flavors to your table in just 30 minutes. With its juicy chicken and bright marinade, it’s sure to impress at any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes only 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of lime juice and chili powder creates a refreshing yet spicy flavor profile that everyone will love.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it with salads, rice, or even in tacos; the options are endless!
• Healthy Choice: Low in carbs and high in protein, this dish fits well into a balanced diet.
• Grill Perfection: Grilling enhances the flavors while keeping the chicken moist and tender.

Tools and Preparation

To make Chili Lime Grilled Chicken successfully, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment can make all the difference in your cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: The grill provides that smoky flavor while achieving perfect char marks on your chicken.
• Mixing bowl: A large bowl allows you to combine your marinade easily without making a mess.
• Whisk: This tool ensures that all ingredients for the marinade are well combined for maximum flavor.

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 jalapeños (chopped finely)
• 4 cloves garlic (chopped finely)
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon chili powder (or to taste)

How to Make Chili Lime Grilled Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

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

Step 2: Make the Marinade

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine fresh lime juice, lime zest, olive oil, chopped cilantro, jalapeños, garlic, honey, salt, and chili powder.
2. Whisk together until fully blended.

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 marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours.

Step 4: Grill the Chicken

1. Preheat your grill over medium-high heat.
2. Brush a little oil on the grill surface to prevent sticking.
3. Take some of the garlic, cilantro, and jalapeño from the marinade and place it on top of the chicken.
4. Grill each thigh until golden brown and charred on both sides—about 6-7 minutes per side.

Serve immediately for a delightful meal that everyone will enjoy!

How to Serve Chili Lime Grilled Chicken

Chili lime grilled chicken is not only flavorful but also versatile. You can serve it in many ways to suit your occasion, whether it’s a casual family dinner or a festive barbecue.

Tacos

• Use the grilled chicken as a filling for soft or hard shell tacos. Top with fresh cilantro, avocado, and a squeeze of lime for extra zest.

Salad

• Slice the chicken over a bed of mixed greens. Add cherry tomatoes, corn, and a drizzle of lime vinaigrette for a refreshing meal.

Rice Bowl

• Serve the chicken on a bowl of steamed rice or quinoa. Add black beans, diced peppers, and avocado for a nutritious option.

Sandwiches

• Shred the chicken and pile it onto a crusty roll with lettuce and salsa for a quick and delicious sandwich.

Skewers

• Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and thread them onto skewers. Grill them again for a minute or two and serve with dipping sauce.

Pasta

• Toss grilled chicken pieces with pasta, fresh veggies, and a light lime dressing for an easy weeknight meal.

How to Perfect Chili Lime Grilled Chicken

To achieve the best results when making chili lime grilled chicken, follow these simple tips that enhance flavor and texture.

• Marinate longer: Allowing the chicken to marinate overnight will deepen the flavors significantly.
• Use high heat: Grilling at a high temperature ensures you get that perfect char on the outside while keeping the inside juicy.
• Let it rest: After grilling, let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing to retain its juices.
• Check doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for safety.
• Experiment with spices: Don’t hesitate to add more chili powder or other spices to suit your taste preferences.
• Garnish well: Fresh cilantro and additional lime wedges not only look great but also enhance flavor profiles when served.

Best Side Dishes for Chili Lime Grilled Chicken

Pairing side dishes with chili lime grilled chicken can elevate your meal experience. Here are some great options that complement its bold flavors.

1. Mexican Street Corn Salad
   A creamy salad made with corn, cotija cheese, lime juice, and spices; perfect for adding sweetness to your plate.

2. Cilantro Lime Rice
   Fluffy rice tossed with fresh cilantro and lime juice adds freshness that pairs beautifully with grilled chicken.

3. Grilled Vegetables
   Seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus drizzled with olive oil make a colorful side full of flavor.

4. Black Bean Salad
   A mix of black beans, tomatoes, onions, and avocado dressed in lime juice; this salad adds protein and fiber.

5. Corn Tortillas
   Warm corn tortillas can be served on the side or used to wrap bits of grilled chicken for added texture.

6. Guacamole
   Creamy guacamole offers richness that balances out the spice from the chili lime marinade perfectly.

7. Potato Wedges
   Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs provide comfort alongside your spicy grilled dish.

8. Pico de Gallo
   Fresh tomato salsa gives brightness to your meal; serve it as a dip or topping over your grilled chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Marinating chicken can be tricky, but avoiding common mistakes ensures your Chili Lime Grilled Chicken turns out perfect every time.

• Skipping the marination – Not allowing enough time for the chicken to marinate can lead to bland flavor. Aim for at least 2 hours for best results.
• Using old spices – Using stale chili powder or dried herbs can dull the flavor. Always check spice freshness before cooking.
• Overcrowding the grill – Placing too many pieces of chicken on the grill can cause uneven cooking. Grill in batches if necessary.
• Not monitoring the temperature – Cooking chicken at too high a heat may char the exterior while leaving it undercooked inside. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
• Neglecting resting time – Cutting into the chicken immediately after grilling can lead to lost juices. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Chili Lime Grilled Chicken in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Chili Lime Grilled Chicken

• Freeze grilled chicken in freezer-safe bags or containers.
• It can be stored for up to 3 months without losing quality.

Reheating Chili Lime Grilled Chicken

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave – Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate and cover. Heat on medium power for about 2-3 minutes or until hot, checking frequently.
• Stovetop – Heat a skillet over medium heat with a bit of oil. Cook chicken for about 5-7 minutes, flipping occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re curious about making Chili Lime Grilled Chicken, here are some common questions.

Can I use other cuts of chicken?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts or drumsticks instead of thighs. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

What should I serve with Chili Lime Grilled Chicken?

Pair it with a fresh salad, rice, or grilled vegetables for a balanced meal that complements the flavors.

How do I make chili lime marinade without honey?

You can substitute honey with agave syrup or simply omit it. The marinade will still be flavorful!

Can I prep the marinade ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the marinade up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to use it.

Final Thoughts

Chili Lime Grilled Chicken is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adjusting the spice level or adding different herbs. This easy recipe is perfect for any occasion—give it a try and enjoy a flavorful meal!