Simple Chili Lime Chicken
A vibrant and flavorful dish that brings a burst of zest to your table with a tangy, spicy kick.
Equipment
- Mixing Bowl
- Grill or Oven
- Skillet
- Resealable Plastic Bag
Ingredients
Chicken Breasts
- 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts Ensure they are of even thickness for even cooking.
Lime Juice
- 2 limes freshly squeezed lime juice Zest can also be added for extra flavor.
Chili Powder
- 2 tablespoons chili powder Provides the chicken its signature kick.
Garlic
- 3 cloves minced garlic Enhances flavor and aroma.
Olive Oil
- 2 tablespoons olive oil Helps in marinating and achieving a golden crust.
Salt
- 1 teaspoon salt Enhances flavors; adjust to preference.
Pepper
- 0.5 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper Adds a hint of spice.
Fresh Cilantro
- to taste chopped cilantro Optional garnish for flavor and visual appeal.
Instructions
- Gather all your ingredients on a clean workspace.
- In a medium bowl, combine lime juice, chili powder, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Whisk until well blended.
- Place chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour marinade over chicken, ensuring thorough coating. Seal or cover.
- Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to an hour.
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat or oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Remove chicken from marinade, allowing excess to drip off. Discard used marinade.
- Cook chicken for approximately 6-7 minutes on each side on the grill, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). If baking, cook for about 20-25 minutes.
- Let chicken rest for about 5 minutes before slicing against the grain.
- Garnish with chopped cilantro if desired and serve warm.
Notes
For variations, consider adding pineapple juice to the marinade or using chicken thighs for a juicier option.