Grilled Chili Lime Chicken – The Perfect Summer Dish

After a busy day, there’s nothing better than firing up the grill for a dish that delivers big on flavor without requiring hours in the kitchen. That’s exactly where this Grilled Chili Lime Chicken shines! The tantalizing aroma of lime-infused chicken sizzling on the grill is enough to make anyone’s mouth water. Each bite delivers a perfect balance of zesty citrus, gentle heat from the chili, and juicy, tender chicken that practically falls apart.

What makes this easy Grilled Chili Lime Chicken recipe stand out is its incredible versatility and simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry, you can transform ordinary chicken into an extraordinary meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners, weekend gatherings, or meal prep for the busy week ahead.

This healthy Grilled Chili Lime Chicken idea has become my go-to when I need to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen. The blend of spices creates a flavor profile that’s both familiar and exciting – something everyone at your table will love!

• ✅ This flavorful Grilled Chili Lime Chicken breast recipe is ready in under 30 minutes – perfect for busy weeknights!
• ✅ The easy Grilled Chili Lime Chicken marinade uses simple ingredients yet delivers restaurant-quality flavor
• ✅ Incredibly versatile – use for Grilled Chili Lime Chicken tacos, salads, wraps, or as a main dish
• ✅ Naturally healthy with lean protein and no added sugar – ideal for healthy Grilled Chili Lime Chicken dinner options
• ✅ Learn how to grill Chili Lime Chicken perfectly with our foolproof method that works every time
• ✅ Perfect for meal prep – stays delicious for days in the refrigerator

Ingredients for Grilled Chili Lime Chicken

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this mouthwatering dish:

• 4 skinless chicken breasts (about 2 pounds)
• 2 limes (for both juice and zest)
• 2 teaspoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic (about 2 cloves)
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon dried cilantro (or 2 tablespoons fresh)
• ¼ teaspoon ground ginger
• ¼ teaspoon dried lemongrass
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Ingredient Tips:

• For a spicier version, add ¼ teaspoon of cayenne pepper to create spicy Grilled Chili Lime Chicken skewers
• No fresh limes? Use 3 tablespoons of bottled lime juice, though fresh is preferred for the best flavor
• If you’re avoiding oils, substitute with 2 tablespoons of low-sodium chicken broth for the marinade

1. In a medium bowl, combine the lime juice, lime zest, chili powder, onion powder, minced garlic, cumin, dried cilantro, ground ginger, and dried lemongrass.
2. Add olive oil and whisk until all ingredients are well combined.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste (about ½ teaspoon each is a good starting point).
4. Place chicken breasts in a large ziplock bag or shallow dish.
5. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure all pieces are well coated.
6. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, though 2-4 hours will yield the best flavor. For maximum flavor infusion, marinate overnight.
7. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 375-400°F).
8. Remove chicken from the marinade, allowing excess to drip off.
9. Place chicken on the grill and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
10. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute.

Pro Tips for Making the Best Grilled Chili Lime Chicken

• Flatten for even cooking: Pound thicker parts of the chicken breasts to ensure even thickness throughout, helping them cook uniformly.
• Don’t skip the zest: The lime zest contains essential oils that provide much more flavor than juice alone.
• Use a meat thermometer: The secret to perfectly cooked flavorful Grilled Chili Lime Chicken breast is not overcooking it. A meat thermometer takes the guesswork out.
• Reserve some marinade: Before adding chicken, set aside 2 tablespoons of marinade (before it touches raw chicken) to brush on during grilling for extra flavor.
• Let it rest: Allowing your chicken to rest for 5 minutes after grilling helps retain juices when you cut into it.

Best Ways to Serve Grilled Chili Lime Chicken

This versatile dish works wonderfully in multiple preparations:

• Slice and serve with cilantro lime rice and black beans for a complete meal
• Chop and use as filling for Grilled Chili Lime Chicken tacos with fresh avocado, pico de gallo, and a squeeze of lime
• Create a Grilled Chili Lime Chicken salad recipe by topping mixed greens with sliced chicken, corn, black beans, and a cilantro-lime dressing
• Pair with Grilled Chili Lime Chicken with avocado salsa for a refreshing combination
• Serve alongside grilled vegetables for a low-carb, high-protein dinner option

Best sides for Grilled Chili Lime Chicken

Storage & Leftovers

Properly stored Grilled Chili Lime Chicken for meal prep is a fantastic time-saver:

• Refrigerator: Store cooled chicken in an airtight container for up to 4 days
• Freezer: Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then place in freezer bags for up to 3 months
• Reheating: For best results, reheat gently in a 300°F oven, covered with foil, until just warmed through (about 10 minutes). Alternatively, microwave at 50% power in 30-second intervals to prevent drying out

Nutritional Information for Grilled Chili Lime Chicken

Per serving (1 chicken breast):

• Calories: 165 kcal
• Protein: 29g
• Fat: 4g
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Fiber: 0.5g
• Sugar: 0.5g
• Sodium: 310mg

This healthy Grilled Chili Lime Chicken dinner is naturally low in carbs and high in protein, making it perfect for those following keto, paleo, or other health-focused eating plans.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this Grilled Chili Lime Chicken in the oven?

Absolutely! Bake in a 375°F oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. For a chargrilled finish, broil for the last 2-3 minutes.

How long should I marinate chicken for Grilled Chili Lime Chicken?

While 30 minutes will work, 2-4 hours is ideal for the best flavor infusion. You can marinate up to 24 hours in the refrigerator for maximum flavor, but don’t go beyond that as the lime juice can start to break down the chicken texture too much.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work wonderfully in this recipe. They typically require slightly less cooking time (about 5-6 minutes per side) and stay juicier than breasts.

What’s the best way to check if my Grilled Chili Lime Chicken is done?

Always use a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the chicken – it should read 165°F when fully cooked. Avoid cutting into the chicken to check doneness as this releases the juices.

Conclusion

This Grilled Chili Lime Chicken recipe proves that incredible flavor doesn’t require complicated techniques or hard-to-find ingredients. With its perfect balance of zesty lime, gentle heat, and aromatic spices, it’s sure to become a regular in your meal rotation.

Whether you’re serving it at a backyard barbecue, preparing Grilled Chili Lime Chicken for meal prep, or creating a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality results every time. The versatility means you can enjoy it in countless ways – from tacos to salads to standalone entrées.

Have you tried this Grilled Chili Lime Chicken recipe? Let us know in the comments how you served it and what your family thought! Don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family who appreciate easy, delicious meals that don’t compromise on flavor.

Happy grilling!

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