Chili Lime Grilled Chicken

Chili Lime Grilled Chicken is a mouthwatering dish that brings a burst of flavor to your dinner table. This easy-to-follow recipe is perfect for summer barbecues, family gatherings, or a quick weeknight meal. The combination of zesty lime and spicy chili creates a delightful marinade that ensures the chicken stays juicy and tender. Enjoy this versatile dish with a side salad, rice, or grilled vegetables for a complete meal!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time and 10 minutes on the grill, you can serve delicious Chili Lime Grilled Chicken in less than 30 minutes.
• Flavor Packed: The marinated chicken boasts a unique blend of flavors from fresh lime juice, garlic, and jalapeño that will tantalize your taste buds.
• Healthy Option: This recipe features skin-on chicken thighs that are rich in protein while still being low in carbohydrates, making it a healthy choice.
• Versatile Serving: Perfect for various occasions, serve it as a main dish at parties or slice it up for tacos or salads.
• Easy to Customize: Adjust the level of spiciness by adding more or less chili powder according to your preference.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making Chili Lime Grilled Chicken, gather your tools to streamline the process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Grill
• Tongs

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl allows you to combine all the marinade ingredients thoroughly.
• Whisk: A whisk helps achieve a smooth and well-blended marinade.
• Grill: Using a grill imparts that delicious smoky flavor while ensuring even cooking.
• Tongs: Tongs make flipping the chicken effortless without losing any of the marinade.

Ingredients

Chili lime chicken – moist and delicious chicken marinated with chili and lime and grill 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)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Chili Lime Grilled Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Rinse the chicken thighs under cold water. Remove any bones while keeping the skin on. Pat them dry with paper towels and set aside.

Step 2: Mix the Marinade

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

Step 3: Marinate the Chicken

Add the chicken thighs into the marinade. Stir to ensure each piece is evenly coated. Let it marinate for at least 2 hours in the refrigerator.

Step 4: Grill the Chicken

Preheat your grill over medium-high heat. Brush some oil on the grill surface to prevent sticking. Place the marinated chicken on the grill along with some garlic, cilantro, and jalapeño from the marinade. Grill until golden brown and charred on both sides, about 5 minutes per side. Serve immediately for best flavor!

How to Serve Chili Lime Grilled Chicken

Chili lime grilled chicken is a flavorful dish that pairs well with various sides and garnishes. Serving it with the right accompaniments can enhance its zesty profile and make for a delightful meal.

Fresh Salad

• Crisp Green Salad: A mix of lettuce, cucumbers, and tomatoes dressed in a light vinaigrette complements the spiciness of the chicken.
• Avocado Salad: Creamy avocado slices add richness, balancing the tangy flavors of the chili lime.

Rice Dishes

• Cilantro Lime Rice: This fragrant rice dish echoes the flavors in the chicken, making it a perfect pairing.
• Spanish Rice: Seasoned rice with tomatoes and spices adds a savory touch that complements grilled chicken.

Tacos

• Chicken Tacos: Shred leftover chili lime grilled chicken and serve it in corn tortillas with fresh toppings like salsa and avocado.
• Baja Fish Tacos: For variety, serve alongside fish tacos that have similar zesty flavors.

Grilled Vegetables

• Seasoned Grilled Corn: Sweet corn on the cob with lime butter brings a delightful crunch to your plate.
• Mixed Grilled Veggies: Bell peppers, zucchini, and onions grilled until tender can add color and flavor.

How to Perfect Chili Lime Grilled Chicken

Getting your chili lime grilled chicken just right takes some technique. Here are some tips to ensure it’s always delicious.

• Marinate Longer: Letting the chicken marinate for at least 2 hours allows the flavors to penetrate deeply.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and lime juice provide better flavor than dried or bottled alternatives.
• Preheat Your Grill: A hot grill ensures nice sear marks and helps to lock in moisture.
• Watch Cooking Time: Keep an eye on your cooking time; overcooked chicken can become dry. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
• Let It Rest: Allowing the chicken to rest for a few minutes after grilling helps retain its juices.
• Experiment with Heat Levels: Adjust jalapeños according to your spice preference; remove seeds for milder heat.

Best Side Dishes for Chili Lime Grilled Chicken

Pairing your chili lime grilled chicken with complementary side dishes enhances the overall dining experience. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Grilled Corn Salad: A refreshing salad made with sweet corn, cherry tomatoes, and cilantro dressing—perfect for summer barbecues.
2. Quinoa Pilaf: Nutty quinoa mixed with herbs and lemon offers a healthy grain option full of flavor.
3. Coleslaw: Crunchy cabbage slaw dressed in a tangy vinaigrette provides a nice textural contrast.
4. Potato Wedges: Crispy baked potato wedges seasoned simply with salt can be an excellent comfort food side.
5. Black Beans: Seasoned black beans add protein and earthiness that pairs well with spicy dishes.
6. Fruit Salsa: A vibrant fruit salsa made from mango or pineapple adds sweetness that balances out the heat from the chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Chili Lime Grilled Chicken, it’s easy to make mistakes that can affect the flavor and texture. Here are some common pitfalls.

• Not marinating long enough: Failing to marinate the chicken for at least two hours can result in a lack of flavor. For best results, allow the chicken to soak up the marinade for longer, even overnight if possible.

• Skipping the skin-on thighs: Using skinless chicken can lead to dry meat. The skin helps keep the chicken moist while grilling, so opt for skin-on thighs for a juicier outcome.

• Ignoring temperature control: Cooking on too high heat can char the outside while leaving the inside undercooked. Use medium-high heat and monitor closely for even cooking.

• Overcrowding the grill: Placing too many pieces of chicken on the grill at once can lower the temperature and cause uneven cooking. Grill in batches to ensure each piece gets proper heat exposure.

• Not using fresh ingredients: Relying on dried herbs or old produce can dull flavors. Always use fresh lime juice, cilantro, and garlic for a vibrant taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Allow the chicken to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Chili Lime Grilled Chicken

• Place cooled chicken in freezer-safe bags or containers.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.
• Label containers with date and contents for easy identification.

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 in a microwave-safe dish. Cover loosely and heat in 30-second intervals until hot, checking often to avoid overcooking.

• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of olive oil and warm chicken on both sides, about 5-7 minutes or until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Chili Lime Grilled Chicken spicier?

To increase spice levels, add more chili powder or include more jalapeños in your marinade. You can also use spicy chili flakes or a hotter variety of chili pepper.

Can I use other cuts of chicken?

Yes! While thighs are preferred for their moisture, you can also use drumsticks or breasts. Adjust cooking times accordingly based on thickness.

How long should I marinate Chili Lime Grilled Chicken?

A minimum of two hours is recommended, but marinating overnight will enhance flavor significantly. Just be careful not to exceed 24 hours as it may change texture.

What sides pair well with Chili Lime Grilled Chicken?

This dish pairs well with rice, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad. Consider serving with lime wedges for an extra zing!

Final Thoughts

Chili Lime Grilled Chicken is not just delicious; it’s also versatile and simple to prepare. The combination of zesty lime and spicy chili makes it perfect for summer barbecues or weeknight dinners alike. Feel free to customize it with your favorite herbs or spices! Enjoy this flavorful dish that promises satisfaction every time you grill!