Chili Lime Chicken
Chili Lime Chicken is a vibrant and zesty dish featuring a flavorful marinade of lime and spices that infuses the chicken with delicious taste, making it perfect for family dinners and summer barbecues.
Ingredients
For the Marinade
- 2 tablespoons olive oil Use a good quality olive oil for best flavor.
- 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice Freshly squeezed lime juice enhances the flavor.
- 1 unit Zest of 1 lime Adds an extra lime flavor.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced Fresh garlic is best for the marinade.
- 2 teaspoons chili powder Adjust based on spice tolerance.
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt Adjust to taste.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper Optional for extra heat.
Main Ingredients
- 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts Chicken thighs can be used for a juicier alternative.
- 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped For garnish.
- 1 unit Lime wedges For serving.
Instructions
Preparation of Marinade
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, fresh lime juice, lime zest, and minced garlic until well combined.
- Add in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if desired. Mix well.
Marinating the Chicken
- Place the chicken breasts in a plastic bag or shallow dish.
- Pour the prepared marinade over the chicken, ensuring every piece is thoroughly coated.
- Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least one hour, preferably up to eight hours for best flavor.
Grilling the Chicken
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grill grates.
- Place the marinated chicken on the grill and cook for about 6 to 7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Remove from grill and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Serving
- Garnish the grilled chicken with chopped fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges.
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Notes
For added flavor, use a mixture of different citrus juices like orange or grapefruit. Consider using chicken thighs for a juicier result or experiment with plant-based alternatives like firm tofu or mushrooms.