Grilled Chili-Lime Chicken with Avocado & Red Onion Salsa

A flavor-packed dish, Grilled Chili-Lime Chicken with Avocado & Red Onion Salsa is perfect for any occasion. This vibrant meal features tender grilled chicken glazed in a zesty chili-lime sauce, topped with creamy avocado and a refreshing red onion salsa. It’s fresh, satisfying, and ideal for lunch or dinner!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With only 15 minutes of prep time, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of chili-lime marinade and fresh salsa brings a fiesta to your taste buds.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it on its own, with rice, or wrapped in tortillas for a delicious meal that suits everyone.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein and healthy fats, it’s a nutritious option that doesn’t compromise on taste.
• Easily Customizable: Adjust the spice level or add your favorite toppings to make it your own.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill or grill pan
• Mixing bowl
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill or grill pan: Provides the high heat needed for perfect grilling, giving the chicken those lovely char marks.
• Mixing bowl: Essential for marinating the chicken evenly, allowing all flavors to blend seamlessly.

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Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 1 chicken breast
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Juice of lime
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp cumin
• Salt & black pepper to taste

For the Red Onion Salsa:

• 1 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 cup diced tomato
• 1 tbsp chopped cilantro
• Jalapeño (optional), finely chopped
• Juice of lime
• Salt to taste

Other:

• Avocado, sliced
• Fresh cilantro (for garnish)

How to Make Grilled Chili-Lime Chicken with Avocado & Red Onion Salsa

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, lime juice, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Coat the chicken breast in this mixture. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes or up to overnight for deeper flavor.

Step 2: Grill the Chicken

Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook the marinated chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Allow it to rest before slicing.

Step 3: Make the Salsa

In another bowl, mix together sliced red onion, diced tomato, chopped cilantro, lime juice, jalapeño (if using), and salt. Stir well and let it sit for about 5 minutes so the flavors meld together.

Step 4: Assemble the Plate

Place slices of grilled chicken on a plate. Top generously with red onion salsa and arrange avocado slices alongside. Garnish with fresh cilantro for added freshness.

Step 5: Serve Fresh

Serve your grilled chili-lime chicken immediately. It pairs beautifully with rice, warm tortillas, or a crisp salad—tailoring this dish to your preferences is easy! Enjoy!

How to Serve Grilled Chili-Lime Chicken with Avocado & Red Onion Salsa

Serving Grilled Chili-Lime Chicken with Avocado & Red Onion Salsa is all about enhancing the vibrant flavors of the dish. Here are some delicious ways to enjoy this meal.

On Its Own

• Simple and satisfying, serving the chicken alone allows the bold chili-lime flavor to shine through.

With Rice

• Pairing it with fluffy jasmine or cilantro-lime rice adds a delightful texture and absorbs the zesty juices.

Wrapped in Tortillas

• For a fun twist, serve the grilled chicken in warm tortillas, allowing everyone to make their own tacos.

With a Fresh Salad

• A side salad featuring mixed greens, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette complements the rich flavors of the chicken and salsa.

As Part of a Platter

• Create a colorful platter with sliced chicken, avocado, and salsa alongside fresh veggies for dipping.

How to Perfect Grilled Chili-Lime Chicken with Avocado & Red Onion Salsa

Perfecting this dish can elevate your cooking game. Here are some tips for achieving the best results.

• Marinate Longer: Allowing the chicken to marinate for several hours or overnight intensifies the flavors.

• Preheat Your Grill: A hot grill ensures those beautiful grill marks while keeping the chicken juicy inside.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh lime juice and ripe avocados will enhance the overall taste of your dish significantly.

• Check Internal Temperature: Ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.

• Rest Before Slicing: Letting the grilled chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing helps retain its juices.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Chili-Lime Chicken with Avocado & Red Onion Salsa

To enhance your meal experience, consider serving these delightful sides alongside your main dish.

1. Cilantro-Lime Rice: Fluffy rice tossed with fresh cilantro and lime juice adds a refreshing touch that pairs well.

2. Black Bean Salad: A mix of black beans, corn, tomatoes, and avocado brings extra protein and flavor to your plate.

3. Roasted Vegetables: Colorful roasted bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots provide a nutritious crunch alongside your chicken.

4. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with diced vegetables and a citrus dressing offers a hearty yet healthy option.

5. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with lime butter makes a perfect summer side that complements grilled dishes beautifully.

6. Chips and Guacamole: Crispy tortilla chips served with creamy guacamole add an enjoyable crunch to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding mistakes can make your cooking experience smoother and your dish more delicious. Here are some common pitfalls:

• Not Marinating Long Enough: Skipping the marinating time can lead to bland chicken. Aim for at least 15 minutes or overnight for the best flavor.
• Incorrect Grill Temperature: Cooking on too high or low a heat can result in uneven cooking. Use medium-high heat to ensure the chicken is perfectly grilled.
• Overcooking the Chicken: Overcooked chicken becomes dry and tough. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for juicy results.
• Skipping the Salsa Resting Time: Not letting the salsa sit can mean less flavor. Allow it to meld for about 5 minutes before serving.
• Neglecting Garnish: Omitting fresh cilantro as a garnish can minimize visual appeal and flavor. A sprinkle of cilantro enhances both taste and presentation.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container.
• Keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Grilled Chili-Lime Chicken with Avocado & Red Onion Salsa

• Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Grilled Chili-Lime Chicken with Avocado & Red Onion Salsa

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate, cover loosely, and heat in intervals of 30 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a little oil, and reheat chicken for about 4-5 minutes per side.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding the recipe.

How do I make Grilled Chili-Lime Chicken with Avocado & Red Onion Salsa spicier?

You can add more chili powder or include diced jalapeño peppers in both the marinade and salsa to enhance the heat.

Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

Yes! This recipe works well with beef, turkey, or lamb. Adjust cooking times based on the protein you choose.

What sides go well with Grilled Chili-Lime Chicken with Avocado & Red Onion Salsa?

This dish pairs beautifully with rice, tortillas, or a fresh salad, making it versatile for any meal.

Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?

Absolutely! Substitute grilled vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers for the chicken, keeping the marinade and salsa as is.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Chili-Lime Chicken with Avocado & Red Onion Salsa is a delightful dish bursting with flavor. It’s perfect for lunch or dinner and offers plenty of customization options. Feel free to experiment with different proteins or additional toppings to suit your taste!