Grilling season is upon us, and there’s no better dish to savor than the Southwestern Grilled Chicken Recipe with Lime Butter. This recipe combines a delightful mix of spices that infuse the chicken with flavor and a zesty lime butter sauce that elevates it to new heights. Perfect for backyard barbecues or a cozy family dinner, this dish will impress your guests and satisfy your cravings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Incredible Flavor: The unique blend of spices, including chili powder and cinnamon, creates a mouthwatering experience.
- Quick Preparation: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time.
- Versatile Dish: Ideal for any occasion, this grilled chicken pairs well with salads, rice, or grilled vegetables.
- Gluten-Free Option: Enjoy this dish without worrying about gluten—it’s naturally gluten-free!
- Easy Cleanup: Cooking on the grill means minimal dishes to wash afterward.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the recipe, you’ll need some essential tools to make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Grill
- Mixing bowls
- Basting brush
- Meat thermometer
Importance of Each Tool
- Grill: The star of the show! A good grill ensures even cooking and adds that perfect char to your chicken.
- Mixing Bowls: Essential for blending spices and making the lime butter—a must-have in any kitchen.
- Basting Brush: Helps evenly coat the chicken with seasoning paste for maximum flavor.
- Meat Thermometer: Ensures your chicken is cooked perfectly every time, keeping it juicy and safe to eat.
Ingredients
Grilled chicken doesn’t get any tastier than when it’s coated with lovely spices and topped with lime butter.
For the Spice Rub
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon coarse black pepper
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
For the Chicken
- 3 1/2 pounds bone-in chicken parts
For the Lime Butter
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, melted
- 1 serrano chile, minced
- 2 tablespoons minced white onion
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- pinch coarse black pepper
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
How to Make Southwestern Grilled Chicken Recipe with Lime Butter
Step 1: Prepare the Spice Rub
Mix all ingredients from the spice rub section in a small bowl until well blended. Use a spoon or basting brush to spread the seasoning paste all over the chicken parts. Ensure each piece is thoroughly coated for maximum flavor.
Step 2: Grill the Chicken
Preheat your grill using medium heat for gas or indirect heat for charcoal. Place the seasoned chicken on the grill grates, close the lid, and cook for about 30 minutes or until fully cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to check that internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Step 3: Make the Lime Butter
While the chicken is grilling, combine all ingredients from the lime butter section in another small bowl. Mix until well combined. Drizzle this zesty butter over the grilled chicken just before serving or serve it separately as a dipping sauce.
Enjoy your flavorful Southwestern Grilled Chicken Recipe with Lime Butter! This dish will become a favorite at your dining table.
How to Serve Southwestern Grilled Chicken Recipe with Lime Butter
Serving your Southwestern Grilled Chicken Recipe with Lime Butter can elevate your meal experience. Here are some creative ways to present this flavorful dish that will impress your guests and family alike.
On a Bed of Greens
- Fresh Spinach or Arugula: Serve the grilled chicken over a bed of fresh spinach or arugula for a light, nutritious option.
- Mixed Green Salad: Pair with a mix of greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers for a refreshing side salad.
With Rice or Quinoa
- Cilantro Lime Rice: The zesty flavors complement the chicken beautifully while adding a satisfying base.
- Quinoa Pilaf: A protein-packed alternative that adds texture and nutty flavor to your plate.
Accompanied by Dips
- Guacamole: This creamy dip adds a rich flavor that pairs wonderfully with the spice of the chicken.
- Sour Cream Dip: A simple sour cream mixed with lime juice makes for a tangy contrast to the grilled chicken.
As Sandwiches or Tacos
- Grilled Chicken Tacos: Slice the chicken and serve it in corn tortillas topped with fresh salsa and avocado.
- Chicken Sandwiches: Layer on crusty bread with lettuce, tomato, and a dollop of lime butter for a tasty twist.
How to Perfect Southwestern Grilled Chicken Recipe with Lime Butter
To achieve the best results when making your Southwestern Grilled Chicken Recipe with Lime Butter, consider these helpful tips.
- Bold Seasoning Blend: Ensure you coat the chicken thoroughly with the spice mix for maximum flavor.
- Marinate Longer: Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least an hour can enhance its taste significantly.
- Use Meat Thermometer: Check internal temperature; it should reach 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
- Adjust Heat Levels: If you prefer milder flavors, reduce the amount of serrano chile in the lime butter.
- Let it Rest: After grilling, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps retain juices.
- Experiment with Sides: Pairing different sides can add variety to your meal each time you make this recipe.
Best Side Dishes for Southwestern Grilled Chicken Recipe with Lime Butter
Choosing the right side dishes can complement your Southwestern Grilled Chicken Recipe with Lime Butter perfectly. Here are some excellent options to consider.
- Mexican Street Corn: Grilled corn on the cob slathered in mayo, lime juice, cheese, and spices makes a delightful pairing.
- Black Bean Salad: A hearty salad featuring black beans, corn, diced peppers, and cilantro adds color and nutrition.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until tender bring out natural sweetness and pair well with grilled meats.
- Potato Wedges: Crispy seasoned potato wedges provide crunch and are perfect for dipping in lime butter.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw balances out the richness of the chicken while adding crunch to your meal.
- Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins offer a comforting side that complements southwestern flavors beautifully.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Grilling chicken can be tricky, but avoiding common mistakes will ensure your Southwestern Grilled Chicken Recipe with Lime Butter turns out perfectly every time.
- Skipping the Marinade: Not allowing the seasoning to marinate can lead to bland chicken. Always let the spices soak in for at least 30 minutes for enhanced flavor.
- Overcrowding the Grill: Placing too many pieces of chicken on the grill can cause uneven cooking. Grill in batches to maintain space and ensure each piece cooks properly.
- Not Using a Meat Thermometer: Relying solely on cooking time may result in undercooked or overcooked chicken. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Ignoring Carryover Cooking: Resting the chicken after grilling is essential for juicy results. Allow it to rest for at least 5 minutes before serving so juices can redistribute.
- Serving Cold Lime Butter: Cold lime butter can congeal and not drizzle well. Make sure it’s warm when serving to enhance the overall dining experience.
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container.
- It can last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
- Make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing.
Freezing Southwestern Grilled Chicken Recipe with Lime Butter
- Wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- The chicken can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Southwestern Grilled Chicken Recipe with Lime Butter
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken on a baking sheet and cover it with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate. Cover and heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
- Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a little olive oil. Cook until heated thoroughly, turning occasionally.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use boneless chicken instead of bone-in?
Yes, you can substitute boneless chicken parts. Just adjust the cooking time as boneless cuts cook faster.
How spicy is this Southwestern Grilled Chicken Recipe with Lime Butter?
The spiciness comes from the serrano chile. If you prefer less heat, you can reduce or omit the chile altogether.
What sides pair well with this grilled chicken?
This dish pairs excellently with rice, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Can I make lime butter ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare lime butter in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to one week. Just warm it slightly before serving.
Final Thoughts
The Southwestern Grilled Chicken Recipe with Lime Butter is not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. Whether it’s a family dinner or a backyard barbecue, this dish is sure to impress. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite spices or herbs! Give it a try and elevate your grilling game today!
Southwestern Grilled Chicken Recipe with Lime Butter
Experience the vibrant flavors of the Southwest with this Southwestern Grilled Chicken Recipe topped with zesty Lime Butter. This dish combines a tantalizing spice rub featuring chili powder and cinnamon, infusing the chicken with incredible taste. As it grills to perfection, a rich lime butter made with fresh cilantro and serrano chile elevates each bite. Ideal for everything from backyard barbecues to cozy family dinners, this recipe is not only quick to prepare but also versatile enough to pair beautifully with salads, rice, or roasted vegetables. Impress your guests and satisfy your cravings with this easy-to-follow recipe that packs a flavorful punch.
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon coarse black pepper
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 3 1/2 pounds bone-in chicken parts
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, melted
- 1 serrano chile, minced
- 2 tablespoons minced white onion
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- pinch coarse black pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
Instructions
- In a small bowl, combine chili powder, cinnamon, brown sugar, cocoa powder, salt, black pepper, olive oil, and balsamic vinegar to create the spice rub.
- Coat the chicken parts thoroughly with the spice mixture using a basting brush.
- Preheat the grill to medium heat (for gas) or use indirect heat (for charcoal). Grill the chicken for about 30 minutes or until an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) is reached.
- Meanwhile, mix butter, cilantro, serrano chile, onion, lime juice, and black pepper in another bowl to prepare the lime butter.
- Drizzle lime butter over grilled chicken before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Southwestern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece of chicken (approximately 5.8 oz or 165g)
- Calories: 341
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 470mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 91mg
Keywords: For enhanced flavor, allow chicken to marinate in spice rub for at least an hour. Adjust the heat level by modifying the amount of serrano chile in the lime butter. This recipe can easily be made gluten-free by ensuring all ingredients are certified gluten-free.
