Grilled Chili Lime Chicken

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Packed with smoky, tangy, and slightly spicy flavors.
• Incredibly juicy thanks to the chili-lime marinade.
• Uses simple, everyday ingredients.
• Versatile—great in salads, tacos, bowls, or as a main dish.
• Quick to prepare and perfect for grilling or stovetop cooking.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Chicken breasts or thighs
• Lime juice and zest
• Olive oil
• Chili powder
• Garlic (minced or powdered)
• Honey or maple syrup (optional)
• Cumin
• Paprika
• Salt and pepper
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Directions

1. In a bowl, whisk together lime juice, lime zest, olive oil, chili powder, garlic, cumin, paprika, honey (if using), salt, and pepper.
2. Add the chicken and coat thoroughly. Marinate for at least 20 minutes or up to 8 hours.
3. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
4. Grill the chicken for 5–6 minutes per side, or until cooked through and lightly charred.
5. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro and an extra squeeze of lime if desired.
7. Serve warm with your favorite sides.

Servings and timing

Serves 4 people.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Marinating time: 20 minutes (minimum)
Cook time: 10–12 minutes
Total time: 40–45 minutes

Variations

• Add chipotle powder or cayenne for extra heat.
• Swap honey for brown sugar for deeper caramelization.
• Use chicken thighs for richer, juicier results.
• Add yogurt to the marinade for a creamier, more tender finish.
• Slice the grilled chicken for tacos, bowls, wraps, or salads.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat in a skillet or microwave until warm, adding a splash of lime juice to refresh the flavor.
Marinated raw chicken can be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw before cooking.
Cooked chicken can also be frozen, though it may dry slightly when reheated.

FAQs

Can I cook this chicken on a stovetop?

Yes, cook in a skillet over medium-high heat for 5–6 minutes per side.

How spicy is this recipe?

It’s mildly spicy, but you can increase or decrease the chili powder to your liking.

Can I use bottled lime juice?

Fresh lime juice gives the best flavor, but bottled works if needed.

What type of chicken works best?

Chicken thighs stay juicier, but breasts work great when not overcooked.

Can I marinate the chicken overnight?

Yes, overnight marinating enhances flavor, especially for chicken breasts.

How do I keep the chicken from sticking to the grill?

Oil the grates lightly and avoid moving the chicken too soon.

What sides pair well with chili lime chicken?

Rice, grilled veggies, corn salad, avocado salad, or tortillas.

Can I use this marinade for shrimp?

Yes—marinate shrimp for only 10–15 minutes before grilling.

Does the honey make the chicken burn?

It helps with caramelization, but avoid very high heat to prevent burning.

Can I meal prep this recipe?

Absolutely—it reheats well and is great in bowls, salads, or wraps.

Conclusion

Grilled chili lime chicken is a vibrant, mouthwatering dish that’s easy to make and bursting with zesty flavor. Perfect for grilling nights, meal prep, or pairing with your favorite fresh sides, this recipe delivers juicy, delicious chicken every time.

Grilled Chili Lime Chicken

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Grilled chili lime chicken is a zesty, juicy, and slightly smoky dish made with a flavorful marinade of lime, chili powder, and warm spices. Perfect for grilling season, meal prep, or a quick weeknight dinner.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Grilled
• Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
• Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs chicken breasts or thighs
• 3 tbsp lime juice
• 1 tsp lime zest
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp chili powder
• 2 cloves garlic, minced (or 1 tsp garlic powder)
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

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Instructions

1. In a bowl, whisk together lime juice, lime zest, olive oil, chili powder, garlic, cumin, paprika, honey (if using), salt, and pepper.
2. Add the chicken and toss to coat. Marinate in the fridge for at least 20 minutes or up to 8 hours.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates.
4. Grill chicken for 5–6 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the outside is lightly charred.
5. Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro and an extra squeeze of lime if desired.
7. Serve warm with sides like rice, grilled veggies, or tortillas.

Notes

• Use thighs for a juicier, more flavorful result.
• Grill or cook on a stovetop skillet with the same timing.
• Fresh lime juice gives the best flavor, but bottled works in a pinch.
• Marinate overnight for maximum flavor, especially with chicken breasts.
• Add chipotle or cayenne for more heat.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 360mg
• Fat: 16g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 5g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 38g
• Cholesterol: 110mg