This Chili Lime Chicken is super tasty and has a nice zesty kick! Marinated in lime juice and spices, it brings a refreshing twist to your dinner. Perfect for grilling or baking!
I love how easy it is to whip up this dish on a busy night. Plus, the leftovers make a delicious lunch in wraps or salads. Who doesn’t like a great meal that keeps on giving? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Using bone-in and skin-on thighs keeps the chicken juicy and flavorful. If you prefer a leaner option, boneless, skinless chicken thighs also work well, but they may cook faster.
Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice brightens the dish. You could use lemon juice as a substitute, but it will change the flavor slightly. Always choose fresh over bottled for the best taste.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds richness. If you want a different flavor, avocado oil is a great alternative that’s also healthy.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives a wonderful aroma and taste. If you’re short on fresh, garlic powder can be used (1/4 teaspoon for every clove needed).
Chili Powder: Adjust the amount to your heat preference. You can substitute with taco seasoning for a different profile or use paprika for a milder taste.
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken Turns Out Juicy and Flavorful?
The secret to juicy chicken is in the marinade and resting time. Ensure to coat the chicken thoroughly with the marinade and let it sit for at least 1 hour. Overnight marinating allows the flavors to penetrate deeply and keeps the chicken tender.
- Combine all marinade ingredients in a bowl and mix well.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate.
- After marinating, let the chicken come to room temperature for about 15 minutes before cooking.
When cooking, whether grilling or baking, use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure the chicken is perfectly cooked.
How to Make Chili Lime Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade:
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 2-3 limes)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-2 tsp chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
For the Chicken:
- 2 lbs chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
For Garnishing:
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
- Lime wedges, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus at least 1 hour (or ideally overnight) to marinate. If you choose to grill, the cooking will take about 12-14 minutes. If baking, plan for about 35-40 minutes. In total, you’re looking at about 1 hour and 55 minutes before serving, depending on how long you marinate the chicken.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a large bowl, mix together the fresh lime juice, olive oil, minced garlic, chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything until well combined. This bright and zesty marinade is what will make your chicken so flavorful!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring they are well-coated on all sides. Cover the bowl and let it sit in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, but if you can, let it marinate overnight for the best flavor!
3. Preheat Your Cooking Method:
If you’re grilling, preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F or 200°C). If you choose to bake, get your oven ready at the same temperature.
4. Cooking the Chicken:
If grilling, place the marinated chicken thighs on the grill. Cook them for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the skin is deliciously crispy. If baking, arrange the chicken thighs in a baking dish and bake them in the preheated oven for about 35-40 minutes, or until fully cooked through.
5. Rest the Chicken:
Once cooked, take the chicken out of the grill or oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This step is important because it helps the juices stay locked in, making the chicken juicy and tender.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle the cooked chicken with fresh cilantro for a burst of color and flavor. Serve it warm with lime wedges on the side for an extra zing. Enjoy your delicious Chili Lime Chicken!
Can I Use Boneless Chicken Thighs Instead?
Absolutely! You can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs if you prefer. Keep in mind that they will cook faster, so adjust the cooking time accordingly to about 4-5 minutes per side on the grill or 25-30 minutes in the oven. Always check for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure they are fully cooked.
What If I Don’t Have Chili Powder?
No worries! If you don’t have chili powder on hand, you can substitute it with a mix of paprika and cayenne pepper for heat, or even taco seasoning, which typically includes chili powder as one of its components. Start with a smaller amount and adjust according to your spice preference.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Ensure the chicken is cooled down before sealing. To reheat, use the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through, to maintain crispiness!
Can I Make the Marinade Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the marinade a day in advance! Just mix all the marinade ingredients and store them in the fridge. When you’re ready to use it, simply add the chicken to the marinade and allow it to soak up those delicious flavors!
