Mexican Lime Grilled Chicken

Name: Mexican Lime Grilled Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon pepper; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon paprika; 1/2 teaspoon cumin; 1/2 cup avocado oil (or olive oil); 1/2 cup lime juice; 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; Fresh parsley for garnish

Recipe By:

Juniper

Posted:

June 13, 2025

Updated:

June 13, 2025

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An easy, flavorful Mexican Lime Grilled Chicken recipe is perfect for summer gatherings or weeknight dinners. This dish brings together zesty lime and spices to create a tender, juicy chicken that will impress your family and friends. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or preparing a simple meal at home, this grilled chicken recipe is sure to become a favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple Preparation: With just a few steps, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time.
Bursting with Flavor: The marinade combines zesty lime and spices, making every bite packed with taste.
Versatile Dish: Serve it on its own, in tacos, or atop salads for various meal options.
Healthy Choice: Made with fresh ingredients, this dish is low in carbs and high in protein.
Perfect for Meal Prep: Make extra for lunches throughout the week; it tastes great cold or reheated.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools to make everything run smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Grill or grill pan
Mixing bowl
Whisk
Measuring spoons
Plastic bag (for marinating)

Importance of Each Tool

Grill or grill pan: Essential for achieving the smoky flavor and nice char on the chicken.
Mixing bowl: Provides ample space to combine ingredients without spilling.
Whisk: Ensures even mixing of the marinade, making sure all flavors meld together seamlessly.

Ingredients

For the Marinade

1 tablespoon chili powder
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon cumin
½ cup avocado oil (or olive oil)
½ cup lime juice

For the Chicken

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

For Garnish

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Mexican Lime Grilled Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

Whisk together the chili powder, salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and cumin in a mixing bowl. Then add the avocado oil and lime juice. Mix until well combined.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Pour the marinade over the chicken in either a bowl or plastic bag. Ensure all pieces are coated well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight for maximum flavor.

Step 3: Preheat Your Grill

About 30 minutes before grilling, take the chicken out of the fridge. Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium/high heat.

Step 4: Grill the Chicken

Place the marinated chicken on the grill. Cook for about 5-7 minutes per side per inch of thickness until fully cooked.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

Once done grilling, let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This helps retain moisture and enhances flavor. Enjoy your Mexican Lime Grilled Chicken!

How to Serve Mexican Lime Grilled Chicken

Serving Mexican Lime Grilled Chicken can elevate your dining experience. This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and garnishes, enhancing its zesty flavors.

With Fresh Salsa

Pico de Gallo – A mix of diced tomatoes, onions, and cilantro adds a fresh crunch.
Mango Salsa – Sweet mango paired with lime juice provides a perfect contrast to the savory chicken.

On a Salad

Grilled Corn Salad – Combine grilled corn, avocado, and lime dressing for a refreshing side.
Caesar Salad – Add sliced Mexican Lime Grilled Chicken on top of classic Caesar salad for a protein boost.

In Tacos

Chicken Tacos – Shred the grilled chicken and serve in warm tortillas with toppings like lettuce and cheese.
Baja Fish Tacos – Pair it with grilled fish tacos for a delightful combination of flavors.

How to Perfect Mexican Lime Grilled Chicken

Perfecting your Mexican Lime Grilled Chicken is simple yet requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure you get it right every time.

Marinate Longer – For deeper flavor, marinate the chicken overnight instead of just two hours.
Temperature Check – Use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F for safe consumption.
Preheat Grill Properly – Ensure your grill is hot before adding chicken; this helps achieve beautiful grill marks.
Rest the Chicken – Let the chicken rest after grilling to keep it juicy and tender.

Best Side Dishes for Mexican Lime Grilled Chicken

Pairing side dishes with Mexican Lime Grilled Chicken can enhance your meal. Here are some great options that complement this flavorful dish perfectly.

Mexican Rice – Fluffy rice cooked with spices adds a hearty element to your plate.
Black Beans – Seasoned black beans provide protein and pair well with lime flavors.
Grilled Vegetables – Toss seasonal vegetables on the grill alongside the chicken for added nutrition.
Guacamole – Creamy guacamole offers a rich texture that balances the zesty chicken.
Corn on the Cob – Grilled corn brushed with lime butter makes for a sweet addition.
Cilantro-Lime Quinoa – A healthy alternative that brings freshness and vibrancy to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

It’s easy to make mistakes when preparing Mexican Lime Grilled Chicken. Here are some common pitfalls and how to steer clear of them.

Skipping the Marinade Time: Not allowing the chicken to marinate long enough can lead to bland flavors. Aim for at least 2 hours, but overnight is best for maximum taste.
Using Cold Chicken: Grilling chicken straight from the fridge can result in uneven cooking. Let it sit out for about 30 minutes before grilling to ensure even heat distribution.
Not Preheating the Grill: Failing to preheat your grill can cause the chicken to stick and cook unevenly. Always preheat your grill or grill pan over medium/high heat for optimal grilling conditions.
Overcrowding the Grill: Packing too many pieces of chicken on the grill can lower the temperature and lead to steaming rather than grilling. Space out the chicken breasts for even cooking.
Skipping the Resting Time: Cutting into the chicken immediately after grilling allows juices to escape, leaving you with dry meat. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing to retain moisture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container.
Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Ensure it’s cooled completely before sealing.

Freezing Mexican Lime Grilled Chicken

Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Mexican Lime Grilled Chicken

Oven: Preheat 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 on a microwave-safe plate. Cover with a damp paper towel and reheat in 30-second intervals until hot.
Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of oil if desired, and warm each side of the chicken for about 3-4 minutes until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Mexican Lime Grilled Chicken so flavorful?

The combination of spices like chili powder and cumin, along with fresh lime juice, creates a robust marinade that infuses the chicken with vibrant flavors.

Can I use other cuts of chicken?

Yes! While boneless, skinless breasts are recommended, you can use thighs or drumsticks. Adjust cooking times accordingly, as they may require longer grilling.

How can I customize my Mexican Lime Grilled Chicken?

Feel free to add other herbs or spices such as coriander or oregano. You can also mix in different citrus juices like orange for a unique twist!

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This dish is perfect for meal prep, as it stores well and remains tasty even after reheating.

Final Thoughts

Mexican Lime Grilled Chicken is not just easy to prepare; it’s incredibly delicious and versatile! You can enjoy it as part of tacos, salads, or just on its own. With options for customization, this recipe invites creativity in your kitchen. Give it a try and discover your favorite way to serve this flavorful dish!