Chili Lime Grilled Chicken

Chili Lime Grilled Chicken is a vibrant dish that combines the zesty flavor of lime with a kick of chili, making it a favorite for summer barbecues, family dinners, or any festive gathering. This recipe produces succulent chicken thighs that are marinated to perfection, delivering a bold taste in just 30 minutes. It’s easy to prepare and can be served with various sides, making it versatile for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep time and 10 minutes of grilling, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of fresh lime juice, chili powder, and garlic creates a mouthwatering marinade that enhances the chicken’s natural taste.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it alongside rice, salads, or grilled vegetables for a complete meal that fits any palate.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or enjoying a cozy weeknight dinner, this dish impresses every time.
• Health-Conscious Choice: Packed with protein and low in carbs, this dish is perfect for those looking for nutritious meal options.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools on hand makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here are some essential items you’ll need to make Chili Lime Grilled Chicken.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Basting brush

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: A good grill ensures even cooking and imparts that delicious smoky flavor to your chicken.
• Mixing Bowl: A large mixing bowl allows you to combine ingredients easily without spills.
• Whisk: Using a whisk helps achieve a well-blended marinade, ensuring each piece of chicken is coated evenly.
• Basting Brush: A basting brush lets you apply marinade directly onto the chicken while grilling for extra flavor.

Ingredients

Chili lime chicken – moist and delicious chicken marinated with chili and lime and grilled 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 and remove the bones while keeping the skin intact.
2. Pat them dry with paper towels and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Marinade

1. In a large bowl, combine the fresh lime juice, lime zest, olive oil, chopped cilantro, jalapeños, garlic, honey, salt, and chili powder using a whisk until well mixed.

Step 3: Marinate the Chicken

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

Step 4: Grill the Chicken

1. Preheat your grill over medium-high heat.
2. Lightly brush the grill surface with oil.
3. Place some of the garlic, cilantro, and jalapeño from the marinade on top of each chicken thigh before grilling.
4. Grill until golden brown and charred on both sides, about 5 minutes per side.
5. Serve immediately for best flavor.

Enjoy your flavorful Chili Lime Grilled Chicken!

How to Serve Chili Lime Grilled Chicken

Chili Lime Grilled Chicken is a flavorful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or preparing a weeknight dinner, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal.

With Fresh Salad

• Mixed Green Salad: Toss together arugula, spinach, and cherry tomatoes drizzled with a lime vinaigrette.
• Mango Avocado Salad: Combine diced mango, avocado, red onion, and cilantro for a refreshing contrast.

In Tacos

• Soft Tacos: Fill corn tortillas with shredded chicken, topped with cabbage and a squeeze of lime.
• Crunchy Taco Bowls: Layer grilled chicken over rice in a taco bowl, adding black beans and corn for texture.

With Grains

• Quinoa Pilaf: Serve grilled chicken over fluffy quinoa mixed with herbs and vegetables for added nutrients.
• Cilantro Lime Rice: Pair with aromatic rice cooked in lime juice and fresh cilantro for extra flavor.

As Sandwiches

• Grilled Chicken Sandwich: Place the chicken on toasted bread with lettuce, tomato, and chipotle mayo.
• Wraps: Roll grilled chicken in a tortilla with greens and avocado for a quick lunch option.

How to Perfect Chili Lime Grilled Chicken

Perfecting your Chili Lime Grilled Chicken can enhance its taste and tenderness. Here are some tips to ensure your chicken turns out amazing every time.

• Choose the Right Cut: Use skin-on chicken thighs for moisture; they stay juicier than breasts during grilling.
• Marinate Longer: For deeper flavor, marinate the chicken overnight if possible. A longer marinating time allows the flavors to penetrate better.
• Preheat the Grill: Ensure your grill is hot before cooking. This helps achieve those beautiful grill marks and seals in juices.
• Let It Rest: After grilling, let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making it more tender.

Best Side Dishes for Chili Lime Grilled Chicken

Complement your Chili Lime Grilled Chicken with delicious side dishes that balance its bold flavors. These options will create a well-rounded meal.

1. Grilled Vegetables: A mix of zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus brushed with olive oil complements the smoky flavors beautifully.
2. Corn on the Cob: Grill corn and serve it with lime butter for a sweet and zesty side that pairs perfectly.
3. Black Bean Salad: A refreshing salad made with black beans, bell peppers, cilantro, and lime juice offers protein and fiber.
4. Coleslaw: A classic creamy coleslaw adds crunch and balances the spicy notes of the chicken.
5. Baked Sweet Potatoes: Roasted sweet potatoes bring natural sweetness; drizzle them with honey or lime for an extra kick.
6. Cucumber Salsa: Fresh cucumbers mixed with tomatoes, onions, and lime create a crisp topping that’s great on its own or as an accompaniment to the chicken.
7. Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread serves as a tasty vehicle for soaking up any sauce or marinade from the chicken.
8. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf seasoned with herbs can absorb the flavors of the chicken while adding substance to your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Chili Lime Grilled Chicken, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to avoid.

• Skipping the Marinade Time: Not allowing enough time for the chicken to marinate can lead to bland flavor. Aim for at least 2 hours for the best taste.
• Using Cold Chicken: Grilling chicken straight from the refrigerator can cause uneven cooking. Always let the chicken sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before grilling.
• Not Preheating the Grill: A cold grill can prevent proper searing and caramelization. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat before adding the chicken.
• Overcrowding the Grill: Placing too much chicken on the grill can lower the temperature and lead to steaming instead of grilling. Cook in batches if necessary.
• Ignoring Temperature Checks: Forgetting to check the internal temperature may result in undercooked or overcooked chicken. Use a meat thermometer; it should read 165°F (74°C) when done.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Chili Lime Grilled Chicken

• Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• The chicken can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Chili Lime Grilled Chicken

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate and cover it loosely with a damp paper towel. Heat in 30-second intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a splash of water or broth. Add chicken and cover, heating until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use other cuts of chicken?

Yes, you can use breasts or drumsticks instead of thighs. Just adjust cooking times as needed.

How spicy is Chili Lime Grilled Chicken?

The spice level depends on how much jalapeño you use. For less heat, reduce or omit the jalapeño from the marinade.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours ahead of time for even more flavor.

What sides go well with Chili Lime Grilled Chicken?

Pair it with rice, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.

Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?

For a vegetarian twist, try using tofu or portobello mushrooms marinated in the same chili lime mixture!

Final Thoughts

Chili Lime Grilled Chicken is not only flavorful but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adjusting spice levels or adding your favorite herbs. This recipe is perfect for summer gatherings or weeknight dinners—give it a try!