Chili Lime Grilled Chicken

Chili Lime Grilled Chicken is a mouthwatering dish that captures the essence of summer with its zesty flavors and juicy texture. This recipe is perfect for outdoor gatherings, barbecues, or any casual dinner. With just 30 minutes of preparation and cooking time, you can impress your guests or enjoy a delightful meal with family. The vibrant combination of chili and lime creates an unforgettable taste experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe takes only 30 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Bursting with Flavor: The marinade infuses the chicken with a tangy, spicy kick that elevates your meal to new heights.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy this grilled chicken on its own, in tacos, or as part of a salad for a refreshing twist.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein and made with fresh ingredients, this dish is as nutritious as it is delicious.

Tools and Preparation

To make the Chili Lime Grilled Chicken, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. These tools will help streamline the cooking process and ensure you achieve perfectly grilled chicken every time.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Grill
• Basting brush

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large bowl allows you to easily combine all marinade ingredients for even flavor distribution.
• Whisk: Using a whisk helps mix the marinade thoroughly, ensuring all spices and liquids are well blended.

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.
2. Remove the bones while keeping the skin intact.
3. Pat them dry using paper towels and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Marinade

1. In a big mixing bowl, combine all marinade ingredients using a whisk.
2. Ensure all ingredients are well mixed to create an even marinade.

Step 3: Marinate the Chicken

1. Add the prepared chicken to the marinade.
2. Stir gently to coat each piece evenly in the marinade.
3. Cover and let marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours for optimal flavor.

Step 4: Grill the Chicken

1. Preheat your grill over medium-high heat.
2. Brush a little olive oil on the grill grates to prevent sticking.
3. Remove some garlic, cilantro, and jalapeños from the marinade and place them on top of the chicken before grilling.
4. Grill each thigh until golden brown and charred on both sides—about 5 minutes per side.
5. Serve immediately for best results!

How to Serve Chili Lime Grilled Chicken

Chili Lime Grilled Chicken is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ or looking for a quick weeknight meal, these serving suggestions will elevate your dining experience.

On a Bed of Greens

• Fresh Salad: Serve the chicken sliced over a bed of mixed greens topped with avocado, tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette.
• Cilantro Lime Rice: Pair the chicken with cilantro lime rice for a refreshing and zesty combination.

With Tacos or Wraps

• Taco Style: Shred the grilled chicken and serve it in corn tortillas with diced onions, cilantro, and fresh lime.
• Wrap It Up: Use whole wheat wraps filled with grilled chicken, lettuce, and your favorite salsa for a healthy meal on-the-go.

Accompanied by Dipping Sauces

• Creamy Avocado Sauce: Blend avocado with lime juice and Greek yogurt for a creamy dip that complements the spicy chicken.
• Mango Salsa: A sweet and tangy mango salsa can add a delightful contrast to the chili flavors.

How to Perfect Chili Lime Grilled Chicken

To ensure your Chili Lime Grilled Chicken turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Marinate Longer: For deeper flavor, marinate the chicken overnight if you have time. This allows the spices and lime juice to penetrate more thoroughly.
• Preheat the Grill: Always heat your grill before adding the chicken. A hot surface helps achieve those beautiful grill marks while locking in moisture.
• Use an Instant-Read Thermometer: Check for doneness by inserting a thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken; it should read 165°F (75°C).
• Let It Rest: After grilling, allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes. This helps retain juices when slicing.
• Adjust Spice Level: If you prefer more heat, add extra jalapeños or chili powder to your marinade. Adjust according to your taste preferences.

Best Side Dishes for Chili Lime Grilled Chicken

Pairing side dishes with your Chili Lime Grilled Chicken can create a balanced meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Grilled Vegetables: Assorted seasonal vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and corn tossed in olive oil and grilled until tender.
2. Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad with black beans, corn, diced red onion, and lime dressing adds fiber and protein.
3. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with olive oil and grilled until charred provides a delightful side full of flavor.
4. Coleslaw: A light coleslaw made with cabbage, carrots, cilantro, and lime juice offers crunch and freshness alongside the chicken.
5. Baked Sweet Potatoes: Roasted sweet potatoes drizzled with olive oil and sprinkled with salt complement the spiciness of the chicken beautifully.
6. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf cooked with herbs and broth serves as a great base for soaking up any juices from the chicken.
7. Cucumber Salad: A simple cucumber salad dressed with vinegar and herbs brings coolness to balance out the spicy flavors of the dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Chili Lime Grilled Chicken, it’s important to avoid common pitfalls to ensure your dish turns out perfectly.

• Boldly skip marinating time: Not allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 2 hours can lead to bland flavors. Always give the chicken enough time to soak in the marinade for maximum taste.
• Boldly neglecting to preheat the grill: Starting with a cold grill can result in uneven cooking. Preheat your grill for a few minutes before adding the chicken for better searing.
• Boldly disregarding chicken quality: Using low-quality chicken can affect both flavor and texture. Always choose fresh, high-quality chicken thighs for the best results.
• Boldly ignoring doneness: Not checking if the chicken is fully cooked can be risky. Use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
• Boldly skimping on garnishes: Forgetting to add fresh cilantro and jalapeño on top before grilling can reduce flavor complexity. Use these toppings liberally for an extra burst of freshness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Chili Lime Grilled Chicken

• Wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing flavor.

Reheating Chili Lime Grilled Chicken

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken on a baking sheet and cover it with foil. Heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place the chicken pieces in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on medium power for about 2-3 minutes, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a little oil if necessary, and warm the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have any doubts about making Chili Lime Grilled Chicken, check out these frequently asked questions.

How long should I marinate my Chili Lime Grilled Chicken?

For best results, marinate your chicken for at least 2 hours, or overnight if possible. This allows flavors to penetrate deeply.

Can I use other meats instead of chicken?

Yes! This marinade also works well with turkey or beef. Just adjust cooking times based on the type of meat used.

What can I serve with Chili Lime Grilled Chicken?

This dish pairs well with rice, salads, or grilled vegetables. Feel free to get creative with your sides!

How do I make Chili Lime Grilled Chicken spicier?

To add more heat, increase the amount of jalapeños or add some red pepper flakes to the marinade according to your spice preference.

Can I use a grill pan instead of an outdoor grill?

Absolutely! A grill pan works great on the stovetop. Just ensure it’s hot enough before adding your marinated chicken.

Final Thoughts

Chili Lime Grilled Chicken is not only delicious but also versatile and easy to prepare. Its vibrant flavors make it perfect for summer dinners or casual gatherings. Feel free to customize this recipe with different herbs or spices based on what you enjoy!