Chili Lime Grilled Chicken

Chili Lime Grilled Chicken is a dish that brings together the tangy zest of lime and the spicy kick of chili, resulting in moist and flavorful chicken. This recipe is perfect for any occasion, from backyard barbecues to weeknight dinners. The marinade infuses the chicken with vibrant flavors, making each bite a delightful experience. Plus, it comes together in just 30 minutes, making it an easy option for busy cooks.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With only 15 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious meal on the table in no time.
• Bold Flavor: The combination of lime, chili, and fresh herbs creates a unique taste that will impress your guests.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it with rice, tacos, or salads for a variety of meal options.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein and fresh ingredients, this dish is as nutritious as it is tasty.
• Grill Perfection: Achieve that irresistible charred flavor that only grilling can provide.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking process. Having everything on hand will make grilling your Chili Lime Grilled Chicken easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Provides the high heat needed to achieve that perfect char while keeping the chicken juicy inside.
• Mixing Bowl: Essential for combining all marinade ingredients evenly for maximum flavor penetration.
• Whisk: Helps blend the marinade ingredients seamlessly for a smooth consistency.
• Tongs: Ideal for flipping and removing chicken from the grill without tearing the meat.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 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)

How to Make Chili Lime Grilled Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

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

Step 2: Make the Marinade

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine all marinade ingredients using a whisk until blended well.

Step 3: Marinate the Chicken

1. Add the prepared chicken to the marinade.
2. Stir thoroughly to ensure each piece is evenly coated.
3. Let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours.

Step 4: Grill the Chicken

1. Preheat your grill and brush some oil on its surface to prevent sticking.
2. Place marinated chicken on the grill; top with reserved garlic, cilantro, and jalapeno from marinade.
3. Grill until golden brown and charred on both sides, about 5 minutes per side. Serve immediately.

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. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your meal experience.

Tacos

• Fill warm corn tortillas with shredded chili lime grilled chicken, topped with fresh pico de gallo and avocado slices for a delicious twist.

Salad

• Slice the grilled chicken and serve it on a bed of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a zesty lime vinaigrette for a refreshing salad option.

Rice Bowl

• Create a rice bowl by layering fluffy jasmine rice with chili lime grilled chicken, black beans, corn, and avocado for a satisfying meal.

Sandwiches

• Shred the grilled chicken and use it as a filling for sandwiches or wraps, adding lettuce, cheese, and spicy mayo for an extra kick.

Skewers

• Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and thread them onto skewers with bell peppers and onions. Grill until charred for tasty kebabs.

Quesadillas

• Stuff quesadillas with melted cheese and pieces of chili lime grilled chicken, then grill until golden brown. Serve with salsa for dipping.

How to Perfect Chili Lime Grilled Chicken

Getting your chili lime grilled chicken just right takes a few simple tips. These will ensure your chicken is moist and bursting with flavor.

• Marinate longer: Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 2 hours enhances the flavor. For best results, marinate overnight.
• Grill temperature: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This ensures that the outside gets a nice char while keeping the inside juicy.
• Use skin-on thighs: Cooking with skin helps retain moisture during grilling. It also adds extra flavor as it crisps up.
• Baste while grilling: Brush additional marinade over the chicken while grilling to keep it moist and infuse more flavor.
• Rest before serving: Let the grilled chicken rest for about 5 minutes after cooking. This allows juices to redistribute for maximum tenderness.
• Check doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for perfectly cooked chicken.

Best Side Dishes for Chili Lime Grilled Chicken

Pairing your chili lime grilled chicken with the right sides can enhance your meal even further. Here are some great side dish ideas:

1. Mexican Street Corn: Grilled corn on the cob slathered in creamy sauce, cheese, and spices makes a perfect companion.
2. Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice mixed with fresh cilantro and lime juice complements the flavors of the grilled chicken beautifully.
3. Black Bean Salad: A refreshing mix of black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, and diced onion tossed in lime dressing adds color and taste.
4. Guacamole and Chips: Creamy guacamole served with tortilla chips provides a crunchy texture that pairs well with grilled meat.
5. Grilled Vegetables: A medley of seasonal veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus adds color and nutrition to your plate.
6. Pico de Gallo: Fresh tomato salsa made from diced tomatoes, onions, cilantro, jalapeños, and lime juice brings brightness to each bite.
7. Potato Wedges: Crispy seasoned potato wedges are always a crowd-pleaser that balances out the spicy flavors of chili lime chicken.
8. Coleslaw: A cool coleslaw dressed in tangy vinaigrette provides crunch and contrasts nicely with the spicy grilled flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Marinating your chicken properly is key to making the best Chili Lime Grilled Chicken. Here are some common mistakes to avoid.

• Skipping the marination time: Failing to marinate the chicken long enough can result in bland flavors. Aim for at least 2 hours for maximum taste.
• Using low-quality ingredients: Poor quality lime juice or old spices can ruin your dish. Always use fresh lime juice and fresh herbs for the best flavor.
• Not preheating the grill: Cooking on a cold grill can lead to uneven cooking. Make sure your grill is hot before placing the chicken on it.
• Overcrowding the grill: Placing too much chicken at once can lower the grill temperature. Grill in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking.
• Ignoring internal temperature: Undercooked chicken is unsafe. Use a meat thermometer to check that it reaches 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover chicken in an airtight container.
• It can last up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Chili Lime Grilled Chicken

• Wrap individual pieces of chicken tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Chili Lime Grilled Chicken

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken on a baking sheet and heat until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in short intervals until hot, about 1-2 minutes.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a little oil and cook the chicken for a few minutes on each side until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Chili Lime Grilled Chicken.

Can I use other cuts of chicken?

Yes, you can use boneless breasts or drumsticks if preferred. Adjust cooking times accordingly.

What can I serve with Chili Lime Grilled Chicken?

This dish pairs well with rice, salads, or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.

Is this recipe spicy?

The spiciness depends on how much jalapeño you use. You can adjust it based on your preference for heat.

How do I know when my Chili Lime Grilled Chicken is done?

Use a meat thermometer; it should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to be safely consumed.

Final Thoughts

Chili Lime Grilled Chicken is not only flavorful but also versatile. You can customize this recipe by adding your favorite spices or adjusting the level of heat. Give it a try at your next barbecue; you won’t be disappointed!