Chili Lime Grilled Chicken

Chili Lime Grilled Chicken is a fresh and zesty dish that brings vibrant flavors to your table. This recipe features marinated chicken thighs that are grilled to perfection, making it a fantastic option for family gatherings, summer barbecues, or a quick weeknight dinner. With its easy preparation and bold taste, this dish is sure to impress anyone who tries it.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, you can serve up delicious grilled chicken without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of lime juice, chili powder, and fresh herbs creates a mouthwatering experience with every bite.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for any occasion, this chili lime chicken pairs well with salads, rice, or grilled vegetables.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein and healthy fats, this recipe is both nutritious and satisfying.
• Grill Master Approved: Impress your friends and family with your grilling skills while serving up this flavorful dish.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare Chili Lime Grilled Chicken effectively, you’ll need some essential tools. These items will help ensure your cooking experience is smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Basting brush

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: The grill gives the chicken its signature smoky flavor and beautiful char marks.
• Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl allows for easy mixing of the marinade without spills.
• Whisk: Using a whisk helps achieve a well-combined marinade that coats the chicken evenly.
• Basting brush: A basting brush is perfect for applying marinades or oils to the chicken while grilling.

Ingredients

Chili lime chicken – moist and delicious chicken marinated with chili and lime and grill 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)

How to Make Chili Lime Grilled Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Rinse the chicken thighs under cold water.
2. Remove the bones carefully 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, mix all marinade ingredients using a whisk.
2. Ensure everything is well combined for maximum flavor.

Step 3: Marinate the Chicken

1. Add the chicken thighs into the marinade.
2. Stir well to coat each piece evenly.
3. Cover and let marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours for best results.

Step 4: Grill the Chicken

1. Preheat your grill over medium-high heat.
2. Brush a little olive oil on the grill surface to prevent sticking.
3. Place some of the garlic, cilantro, and jalapeño from the marinade on top of each thigh before grilling.
4. Grill until golden brown and charred on both sides; approximately 5 minutes per side.
5. Serve immediately with your favorite sides!

How to Serve Chili Lime Grilled Chicken

Chili lime grilled chicken is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways to delight your guests. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or preparing a family dinner, these serving suggestions will enhance the flavors of this delicious chicken.

On a Bed of Greens

• Use fresh mixed greens as a base for the chicken. Top with avocado slices and a drizzle of lime vinaigrette for a refreshing salad.

In Tacos

• Shred the grilled chicken and serve it in corn tortillas. Add toppings like diced onions, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime for a tasty taco option.

With Rice

• Pair the chili lime grilled chicken with cilantro-lime rice. The zesty rice complements the chicken beautifully and makes for a filling meal.

On Skewers

• For a fun presentation, cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and thread them onto skewers. Serve with dipping sauces like salsa or guacamole.

As Sandwiches

• Slice the grilled chicken and serve it on toasted buns with lettuce, tomatoes, and a spread of your choice for delicious sandwiches.

With Grilled Vegetables

• Serve alongside grilled vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, or corn on the cob for a colorful and healthy plate.

How to Perfect Chili Lime Grilled Chicken

To achieve perfectly grilled chili lime chicken, consider these helpful tips to enhance flavor and texture.

• Choose skin-on thighs – Using skin-on chicken thighs helps retain moisture during grilling.
• Marinate longer – For deeper flavor, marinate the chicken for up to 4 hours instead of just 2.
• Preheat your grill – Ensure your grill is hot before adding the chicken to get nice grill marks and lock in juices.
• Use indirect heat – If your grill has hot spots, consider using indirect heat to avoid burning while ensuring thorough cooking.
• Let it rest – Allow the chicken to rest after grilling for at least 5 minutes before slicing. This helps keep it juicy.
• Experiment with spices – Feel free to adjust seasoning by adding more chili powder or other spices based on your taste preferences.

Best Side Dishes for Chili Lime Grilled Chicken

Pairing sides with chili lime grilled chicken can elevate your meal even further. Here are some delicious options to complement this dish.

1. Cilantro-Lime Rice – Fluffy rice mixed with cilantro and lime juice adds brightness to your plate.
2. Grilled Corn Salad – A fresh salad made with sweet corn, tomatoes, red onion, and lime dressing brings sweetness that balances the spice.
3. Quinoa Pilaf – Nutty quinoa cooked with herbs provides a healthy grain option that’s both filling and flavorful.
4. Black Bean Salsa – A mix of black beans, corn, bell peppers, and spices creates a zesty salsa perfect for scooping up with tortilla chips.
5. Roasted Sweet Potatoes – Seasoned roasted sweet potatoes offer sweetness that pairs well with spicy flavors.
6. Zucchini Noodles – Lightly sautéed zucchini noodles (zoodles) provide a low-carb side that’s great for soaking up marinades.
7. Avocado Salad – Creamy avocado cubes tossed with cherry tomatoes and lime make for an easy yet tasty salad option.
8. Coleslaw – A crunchy coleslaw dressed in vinegar-based dressing adds texture and tanginess that complements grilled chicken nicely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Chili Lime Grilled Chicken, a few common mistakes can impact the final result. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly.

• Bold Marinade Mixing: Not mixing the marinade thoroughly can lead to uneven flavor. Make sure to whisk all ingredients well before adding the chicken.
• Bold Insufficient Marinating Time: Skipping marinating or doing it for too little time can result in bland chicken. Aim for at least 2 hours for the best flavor infusion.
• Bold Neglecting Grill Temperature: Grilling on low heat may result in overcooked chicken. Preheat your grill to medium-high for that perfect char and juicy inside.
• Bold Overcrowding the Grill: Placing too many pieces on the grill can cause steaming instead of grilling. Cook in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking.
• Bold Ignoring Rest Time: Cutting into the chicken immediately after grilling can lead to dry meat. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving to retain juices.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Chili Lime Grilled Chicken in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Chili Lime Grilled Chicken

• Wrap the grilled chicken tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place it in a freezer-safe bag or container, where it can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating Chili Lime Grilled Chicken

• Bold Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Bold Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in intervals of 1 minute until warm.
• Bold Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat, flipping occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Chili Lime Grilled Chicken.

Can I use different cuts of chicken for this recipe?

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

How spicy is Chili Lime Grilled Chicken?

The spice level depends on how much jalapeño you include. For milder flavor, reduce the quantity or remove seeds before chopping.

What side dishes pair well with Chili Lime Grilled Chicken?

This dish pairs excellently with rice, salads, or grilled vegetables for a complete meal experience.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken a day ahead and grill it when ready. This enhances flavors even more!

How do I store leftovers from my Chili Lime Grilled Chicken?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or freeze them for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

Chili Lime Grilled Chicken is not only flavorful but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adjusting spice levels or pairing it with various sides. Give this easy recipe a try at your next gathering!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Chili Lime Grilled Chicken

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• Author: Lara
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Approximately six servings 1x

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Description

Chili Lime Grilled Chicken is a vibrant and mouthwatering dish that brings the perfect balance of zest and spice to your table. This easy recipe features tender chicken thighs marinated in a refreshing blend of lime juice, chili powder, and fresh herbs, then grilled to perfection. Ideal for family dinners or summer barbecues, this dish guarantees to impress your guests with its bold flavors and juicy texture. With just 30 minutes from preparation to serving, you’ll enjoy a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

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Ingredients

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

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Instructions

1. Rinse chicken thighs under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together lime juice, lime zest, olive oil, cilantro, jalapeños, garlic, honey, salt, and chili powder until well combined.
3. Add chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring each piece is coated evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or up to 4 hours for enhanced flavor.
4. Preheat grill over medium-high heat. Brush grill with olive oil to prevent sticking.
5. Grill chicken thighs for about 5 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
6. Serve hot with your favorite sides.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: Approximately 4 oz (113g)
• Calories: 290
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 17g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 3g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 32g
• Cholesterol: 100mg