Name: Chili Lime Grilled Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: PT-482231H10M21S
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs); 3 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice (about 1 lime); Zest of 1 lime; 1 tablespoon honey (optional for sweetness); 2 teaspoons chili powder; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; ½ teaspoon ground cumin; ½ teaspoon onion powder; ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste); 1 teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish); Lime wedges (for serving)

Chili Lime Grilled Chicken is a vibrant and flavorful dish that brings together the zesty tang of lime, the smoky heat of chili, and the succulent juiciness of grilled chicken. Perfect for summer cookouts or a quick weekday dinner, this recipe is both simple and versatile. Moreover, the marinade infuses the chicken with bold flavors, while grilling gives it a charred, smoky finish. Whether you’re serving it as a main dish or slicing it for salads, tacos, or bowls, Chili Lime Grilled Chicken is sure to impress.

Ingredients For Chili Lime Grilled Chicken

Share a photo and tag us — we can’t wait to see what you’ve made!

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
3 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons fresh lime juice (about 1 lime)
Zest of 1 lime
1 tablespoon honey (optional for sweetness)
2 teaspoons chili powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon ground cumin
½ teaspoon onion powder
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Lime wedges (for serving)

Preparation Of Chili Lime Grilled Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
First, in a small bowl, combine olive oil, lime juice, lime zest, honey, chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, ground cumin, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until well combined.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Next, place the chicken breasts in a large resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, preferably 2-4 hours for maximum flavor. Avoid marinating for more than 8 hours to prevent the lime juice from breaking down the chicken too much.

Step 3: Preheat the Grill
Meanwhile, preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375-400°F). Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Grill the Chicken
Then, remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing excess marinade to drip off. Place the chicken on the preheated grill. Grill for 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (use a meat thermometer for accuracy). Avoid overcooking to maintain juiciness.

Step 5: Rest and Serve
Finally, transfer the Chili Lime Grilled Chicken to a plate and let it rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring moist and flavorful meat. Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro and serve with lime wedges for an extra burst of flavor.

Variation

Spicy Twist: Add an extra teaspoon of cayenne pepper or a diced fresh chili to the marinade for an extra kick.
Herbal Flavor: Mix in chopped fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or basil to the marinade for a more aromatic profile.
Citrus Mix: Replace half of the lime juice with orange juice for a sweeter and more complex citrus flavor.
Oven-Baked: If grilling isn’t an option, bake the chicken at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Vegetarian Option: Use the marinade for grilling tofu, portobello mushrooms, or zucchini slices.

Cooking Notes

Always pat the chicken dry before marinating to help the marinade stick better.
For even cooking, pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness before marinating.
Avoid flipping the chicken too frequently on the grill to achieve nice grill marks and even cooking.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Chili Lime Grilled Chicken with a side of cilantro-lime rice and black beans for a complete meal.
Additionally, slice the Chili Lime Grilled Chicken and use it as a filling for tacos with shredded cabbage, avocado, and a drizzle of sour cream or chipotle sauce.
Pair with a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or grilled corn on the cob.
Add it to a bowl with quinoa, roasted sweet potatoes, and avocado for a nutritious and satisfying meal.

Tips

Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfectly cooked chicken without overcooking.
Double the marinade and reserve half (before adding the chicken) to use as a sauce or drizzle.
If using wooden skewers for grilling, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.
For extra flavor, marinate the chicken overnight in the refrigerator.

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 25-30 minutes

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate)

Calories: 280
Protein: 32g
Fat: 12g
Sodium: 720mg
Carbohydrates: 4g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 2g

FAQs About Chili Lime Grilled Chicken Recipe

Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! Chicken thighs are a great option for this recipe. They tend to be juicier and more flavorful. Adjust the cooking time as thighs may cook slightly faster than breasts.

Q: How can I make this recipe less spicy?
Reduce or omit the cayenne pepper and chili powder for a milder flavor. You can also add more honey to balance the heat.

Q: Can I freeze the marinated chicken?
Yes, you can freeze the chicken in the marinade for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before grilling.

Q: What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave to prevent drying out.

Q: Can I cook this chicken on a stovetop?
Absolutely. Use a grill pan or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat and cook the chicken for the same amount of time as grilling.

Conclusion

Chili Lime Grilled Chicken is a delicious, versatile, and easy-to-make recipe that’s perfect for any occasion. Its bold flavors and juicy texture make it a crowd-pleaser, whether served as a standalone dish or incorporated into other meals. With its simple preparation and endless variations, this dish is sure to become a staple in your cooking repertoire. Fire up the grill and enjoy the irresistible combination of chili and lime! Bon appétit!