The zesty aroma of Applebee’s Fiesta Lime Chicken wafts through the air, teasing your senses and igniting your taste buds. Picture this: succulent chicken marinated in a tangy lime mixture, grilled to perfection, and topped with fresh pico de gallo that dances on your palate. Each bite is a fiesta of flavors that brings the lively spirit of a summer barbecue right to your dining table.

I remember the first time I tried this dish at a family gathering; it was a sunny afternoon filled with laughter and memories. As my cousin expertly flipped the chicken on the grill, I couldn’t help but anticipate the explosion of flavors about to unfold. Now, whether you’re celebrating Taco Tuesday or just craving a flavor-packed meal any day of the week, this recipe is sure to impress.

Ingredients for Applebee’s Fiesta Lime Chicken

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use about 3-4 breasts for a hearty meal. They soak up all those amazing flavors!
• Fresh Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed is best; it adds brightness and acidity to balance the dish.
• Olive Oil: A little drizzle helps keep the chicken moist and enhances flavor during cooking.
• Garlic Powder: This seasoning adds depth; consider using fresh garlic cloves if you want an extra kick.
• Cumin: A dash of cumin provides warmth and earthiness that complements the lime beautifully.
• Pico de Gallo: Fresh diced tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and jalapeños create a refreshing topping that adds crunch.

For the Sauce:

• Honey: Sweetens up the sauce while balancing out the zesty notes from the lime juice.
• Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth for control over saltiness while ensuring rich flavor.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

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How to Make Applebee’s Fiesta Lime Chicken

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, fresh lime juice, garlic powder, and cumin. Add in your chicken breasts and ensure they are fully coated. Cover with plastic wrap and let them marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes—this step is key for maximum flavor infusion.

Step 2: Preheat Your Grill

While your chicken marinates, preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. If you’re using an oven instead, set it to broil for that perfect char without stepping outside.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Remove chicken from marinade (discard marinade). Place on grill or in your hot skillet. Cook each side for about 6-7 minutes until fully cooked through and internal temperature reaches at least 165°F (75°C). You want those beautiful grill marks!

Step 4: Prepare Pico de Gallo

While waiting for the chicken to cook, mix diced tomatoes, onions, cilantro, jalapeños (if you dare!), and a squeeze of lime juice in a bowl. Season with salt to taste—this fresh topping will elevate each bite.

Step 5: Make Your Sauce

In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine honey and chicken broth to create a delightful sauce that brings everything together. Simmer gently until slightly thickened; about five minutes should do it.

Step 6: Serve It Up!

Once cooked through, transfer chicken to plates. Generously top with pico de gallo before drizzling that tasty sauce over everything—your taste buds won’t know what hit them!

Enjoy this vibrant Applebee’s Fiesta Lime Chicken as part of your next family gathering or cozy dinner night! Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Sear the chicken first to lock in those juices, then while it’s sizzling away, whip up your zesty sauce and prepare any sides. This sequence ensures everything comes together perfectly and hot!

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the chicken for turkey or even beef if you’re feeling adventurous! Add some extra veggies like bell peppers or corn for an added crunch, and don’t skimp on your favorite spices.

Storing & Reheating

Once cooled, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For reheating, pop it in the microwave or skillet until warmed through, ensuring it stays juicy.

Sometimes, I whip this dish up when friends come over. Their faces light up as they take that first bite—it’s pure joy wrapped in a tortilla!

FAQs:

What ingredients are needed for Applebee’s Fiesta Lime Chicken?

To make Applebee’s Fiesta Lime Chicken, gather boneless, skinless chicken breasts, lime juice, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, and cumin for the marinade. You’ll also need shredded cheese, pico de gallo, and fresh cilantro for topping. Additionally, prepare a side of rice or vegetables to complete the meal. This recipe is versatile, so feel free to add your favorite toppings or adjust the spices according to your preference.

How long does it take to cook Applebee’s Fiesta Lime Chicken?

Cooking Applebee’s Fiesta Lime Chicken takes about 30-40 minutes in total. Marinating the chicken should be done for at least 30 minutes to enhance flavor. Grill or bake the chicken for approximately 15-20 minutes until fully cooked and juices run clear. If you prefer an oven-baked method, set the temperature to 375°F and ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption.

Can I make Applebee’s Fiesta Lime Chicken ahead of time?

Yes, you can definitely prepare Applebee’s Fiesta Lime Chicken ahead of time! Marinate the chicken a few hours before cooking or even overnight for maximum flavor infusion. Once cooked, store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven or skillet before serving to maintain its juiciness and flavor.

What can I serve with Applebee’s Fiesta Lime Chicken?

Applebee’s Fiesta Lime Chicken pairs wonderfully with various sides. Consider serving it with cilantro-lime rice or seasoned black beans for a Mexican-inspired meal. Fresh salads topped with avocado and corn provide a refreshing contrast. For a heartier option, grilled vegetables or roasted potatoes complement the dish beautifully and enhance its vibrant flavors.

Conclusion for Applebee’s Fiesta Lime Chicken:

Applebee’s Fiesta Lime Chicken is a flavorful and versatile dish that brings excitement to your dinner table. By using fresh ingredients like lime juice and spices, you create a zesty marinade that elevates simple chicken breasts into a delicious meal. Remember to serve it with tasty sides like rice or salads to complete your dining experience. This recipe is perfect for meal prepping and can be easily adjusted according to your taste preferences. Enjoy crafting this delightful dish at home!

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Applebee’s Fiesta Lime Chicken

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• Author: Adeline
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Applebee’s Fiesta Lime Chicken is a vibrant dish that infuses succulent grilled chicken with zesty lime marinade, topped with fresh pico de gallo and a sweet honey sauce. This flavor-packed recipe brings the essence of summer barbecues to your dining table, making it perfect for family gatherings or weeknight dinners.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
• 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 cup pico de gallo (fresh diced tomatoes, onions, cilantro, jalapeños)
• 2 tbsp honey
• 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth

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Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, garlic powder, and cumin. Add chicken breasts and coat well. Cover and marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes.
2. Preheat Your Grill: Heat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Alternatively, preheat the oven to broil.
3. Cook the Chicken: Remove chicken from marinade (discard marinade). Grill each side for about 6-7 minutes until cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
4. Prepare Pico de Gallo: Mix diced tomatoes, onions, cilantro, jalapeños, and lime juice in a bowl; season with salt.
5. Make Your Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine honey and chicken broth. Simmer until slightly thickened (about 5 minutes).
6. Serve It Up: Plate the chicken and top generously with pico de gallo and drizzle with sauce.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 chicken breast (168g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 9g
• Sodium: 320mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 1.5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 21g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 43g
• Cholesterol: 110mg

Keywords: For added flavor, marinate overnight. This dish is versatile; feel free to substitute chicken with turkey or beef. Add vegetables like bell peppers or corn for an extra crunch.