Description
Fiesta Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa is a vibrant and healthy Mexican-American main course featuring tender grilled chicken breasts marinated in a zesty lime and chili spice blend. Paired with a fresh avocado salsa made from creamy avocado, juicy cherry tomatoes, red onion, and cilantro, this dish offers a perfect balance of smoky, tangy, and refreshing flavors ideal for summer grilling or a nutritious weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken Marinade
- 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts, halved horizontally
- 1/4 cup lime juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Avocado Salsa
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until thoroughly combined.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken halves in a zip-top bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over the chicken. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, preferably 2 hours, to allow the flavors to infuse.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat to ensure a good sear and char on the chicken.
- Grill the Chicken: Remove chicken from the marinade, letting excess drip off. Place on the grill and cook for 5-6 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is fully cooked through and has developed nice grill marks and char.
- Make the Avocado Salsa: While the chicken grills, combine diced avocado, halved cherry tomatoes, finely chopped red onion, cilantro, lime juice, and salt and pepper in a small bowl. Stir gently to combine without mashing the avocado.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes to retain juices. Serve each chicken piece topped with a generous spoonful of the fresh avocado salsa.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken thighs for chicken breasts for a juicier texture.
- For added heat, add diced jalapeño to the salsa.
- Serve with rice, tortillas, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
