Chili Lime Grilled Chicken is a flavorful dish that brings a burst of zest to your table. Perfect for summer cookouts, family gatherings, or a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe showcases the wonderful combination of chili and lime for a mouthwatering experience. The juicy chicken thighs soak up the vibrant marinade, resulting in tender, delicious meat that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Bursting with Flavor: The marinade combines fresh lime juice, jalapeños, and garlic, creating a taste sensation that is both zesty and savory.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it with rice, in tacos, or as part of a salad for a delicious meal anytime.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein and low in carbs, it’s a great choice for those looking to eat healthily without sacrificing flavor.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for gatherings, the dish is sure to impress family and friends alike.

Tools and Preparation

To achieve the best results with your Chili Lime Grilled Chicken, having the right tools makes all the difference. Here are some essential items you’ll need.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Provides high heat necessary for achieving that perfect char on your chicken.
• Mixing Bowl: Essential for combining your marinade ingredients thoroughly.
• Whisk: Helps to blend all ingredients evenly, ensuring maximum flavor infusion into the chicken.
• Tongs: Make flipping the chicken easy while keeping your hands safe from the heat.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 2 – 2 1/2 lbs. (900g-1.1kg) skin on chicken thighs
• 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)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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How to Make Chili Lime Grilled Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

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

Step 2: Make the Marinade

In a large mixing bowl, combine all marinade ingredients:
* Pour in the fresh lime juice and olive oil.
* Add lime zest, chopped cilantro, jalapeños, garlic, honey, salt, and chili powder.
* Whisk together until well combined.

Step 3: Marinate the Chicken

Add the chicken thighs into the marinade. Stir well to ensure each piece is coated evenly. Cover and let marinate in the refrigerator for 2 hours.

Step 4: Grill

Preheat your grill over medium-high heat. Brush a bit of oil on the grates to prevent sticking. Place marinated chicken on the grill. Sprinkle some of the leftover garlic, cilantro, and jalapeño from the marinade on top of each piece.

Grill for about 5–7 minutes per side or until golden brown and charred. Serve immediately and enjoy!

How to Serve Chili Lime Grilled Chicken

Chili lime grilled chicken is not just a meal but an experience. Its vibrant flavors pair well with various sides and garnishes, making it a versatile dish for any occasion.

Fresh Salad

• A crisp green salad topped with cucumbers, tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette complements the chicken beautifully.

Avocado Salsa

• Creamy avocado salsa adds richness and balances the spiciness of the chili lime marinade.

Rice or Quinoa Bowl

• Serve the chicken over a fluffy bed of rice or quinoa, adding some beans and veggies for a hearty meal.

Tacos

• Shred the grilled chicken and stuff it into corn tortillas with fresh cilantro and lime wedges for delicious tacos.

Corn on the Cob

• Grilled corn brushed with lime butter makes for a sweet and tangy side that pairs wonderfully with the chicken.

Yogurt Sauce

• A cooling yogurt sauce can help tame the heat from the chili while adding creaminess to each bite.

How to Perfect Chili Lime Grilled Chicken

Perfecting chili lime grilled chicken requires attention to detail during preparation and cooking. Here are some tips to ensure your chicken turns out delicious every time.

• Marinate Longer: For maximum flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours. If you can, let it sit overnight.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh lime juice and zest will enhance the flavor more than bottled alternatives.
• Preheat Your Grill: Make sure your grill is hot before adding the chicken. This helps to create those beautiful grill marks and keeps the meat juicy.
• Avoid Overcooking: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) without drying out.
• Rest Before Serving: Letting the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling allows juices to redistribute, resulting in moist meat.
• Experiment with Spice Levels: Adjusting the amount of chili powder or jalapeño in your marinade can customize the heat level to your liking.

Best Side Dishes for Chili Lime Grilled Chicken

Pairing side dishes with your chili lime grilled chicken can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options that complement its zesty flavors perfectly.

1. Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice mixed with fresh cilantro and lime juice enhances the dish’s citrus notes.
2. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini add color and texture when grilled alongside the chicken.
3. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides crunch and contrasts nicely with the tender chicken.
4. Black Bean Salad: This refreshing salad adds protein and fiber while being packed with flavors from herbs and spices.
5. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries create a sweet contrast to the spicy grilled chicken.
6. Corn Salad: A vibrant corn salad with tomatoes, onions, and lime dressing offers a refreshing crunch.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Chili Lime Grilled Chicken, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps that can affect the outcome. Here are common mistakes to avoid.

• Skipping the marinade time: Marinating for at least 2 hours enhances flavor. Don’t rush this step; overnight is even better for maximum taste.
• Not using fresh ingredients: Fresh lime juice and herbs make a difference. Avoid bottled juices or dried herbs for the best flavor.
• Ignoring grill temperatures: A properly heated grill is crucial. Preheat your grill before adding chicken to achieve that perfect char.
• Overcrowding the grill: Cooking too many pieces at once leads to steaming instead of grilling. Give each piece enough space for even cooking.
• Using skinless chicken: Skin on chicken thighs retain moisture and flavor during grilling. Opt for skin-on options for the best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Use within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Chili Lime Grilled Chicken

• Wrap the grilled chicken tightly in aluminum foil or freezer bags.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Chili Lime Grilled Chicken

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat chicken for about 15-20 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish and cover with a lid. Heat in short intervals until warmed through, about 1-2 minutes.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth. Cover and heat until warmed, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Chili Lime Grilled Chicken?

Chili Lime Grilled Chicken is a flavorful dish made by marinating chicken thighs in a zesty mix of lime juice, chili powder, and fresh herbs before grilling them to perfection.

How long should I marinate the chicken?

For the best flavor, marinate your chicken for at least 2 hours. Overnight is recommended if you want even deeper flavors.

Can I use other cuts of chicken?

Yes, while thighs are recommended for their moisture, you can use breasts or drumsticks. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

What sides pair well with Chili Lime Grilled Chicken?

This dish pairs excellently with rice, salads, or grilled vegetables. You can also serve it with tortillas for tasty wraps.

How do I customize the spice level?

You can adjust the amount of chili powder or add extra jalapeños based on your heat preference. For milder options, reduce or omit these ingredients.

Final Thoughts

Chili Lime Grilled Chicken is not only easy to prepare but also versatile and packed with flavor. Its zesty profile makes it perfect for summer barbecues or family dinners alike. Feel free to customize it by adding different spices or serving it with your favorite sides! Give this delicious recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!

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Chili Lime Grilled Chicken

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• Author: Adeline
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 4

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Description

Chili Lime Grilled Chicken is a vibrant and flavorful dish that captures the essence of summer with its zesty marinade. This recipe features tender chicken thighs soaked in a lively combination of fresh lime juice, garlic, and jalapeños, delivering a mouthwatering experience that’s perfect for cookouts or quick weeknight dinners. The juicy, charred chicken pairs beautifully with various sides, making it an incredibly versatile option for any meal. Whether served in tacos, over rice, or alongside a fresh salad, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Simple to prepare and packed with flavor, Chili Lime Grilled Chicken will impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

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

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Instructions

1. 1. Rinse and pat dry the chicken thighs.
2. 2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together lime juice, lime zest, olive oil, cilantro, jalapeños, garlic, honey, salt, and chili powder until well combined.
3. 3. Add the chicken thighs to the marinade and coat evenly; cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
4. 4. Preheat the grill over medium-high heat and brush grates with oil.
5. 5. Grill marinated chicken for about 5–7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 thigh (170g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 720mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 28g
• Cholesterol: 120mg

Keywords: For maximum flavor, marinate overnight if possible. Use fresh ingredients for the best taste. Adjust chili levels by varying the amount of jalapeño or chili powder.