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Zesty Chili Lime Chicken First Image

Marinated Chicken


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  • Author: Chef John
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten-Free

Description

A delicious marinated chicken recipe perfect for grilling or baking.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 tbsp fresh lime juice (about 12 limes)
  • 1 tbsp lime zest
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika
  • ½ tsp cumin
  • ¼½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
  • 1 tsp honey or agave (optional, for balance)
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
  • 1 tbsp oil for cooking
  • Fresh cilantro and lime wedges for serving (optional)

Instructions

  1. Place chicken in a zip-top bag or shallow dish.
  2. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are coated.
  3. Marinate for at least 30 minutes, preferably 2–4 hours (up to 12 hours is fine).
  4. Heat 1 tbsp oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
  5. Cook chicken 6–7 minutes per side, until internal temp reaches 165°F (75°C).
  6. Preheat grill to medium-high.
  7. Grill chicken 5–7 minutes per side.
  8. Preheat oven to 400°F (205°C).
  9. Bake chicken 20–25 minutes, depending on thickness.

Notes

  • For best results, marinate the chicken overnight.
  • Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper based on your heat preference.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Grilling, Baking, Skillet
  • Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
  • Calories: 250
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 3g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Cholesterol: 100mg