Step-by-step instructions
- Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and lime juice to create a flavorful rub.
- Coat the chicken breasts evenly with the rub, ensuring they’re well covered, and let them marinate for about 15-30 minutes.
- Place the marinated chicken on the grill and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- While the chicken is grilling, prepare the avocado salsa by combining diced avocado, halved cherry tomatoes, finely chopped red onion, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice in a bowl. Mix gently to avoid mashing the avocado.
- Once the chicken is cooked through, slice it and serve topped with a generous scoop of avocado salsa.
Best ways to enjoy it
To serve your Fiesta Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa, consider a few creative ideas. Place the chicken on a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa for a hearty meal. You could also serve it alongside black beans and corn for a complete fiesta on your plate! Garnish with extra cilantro and lime wedges for that extra pop.
How to store
If you have any leftovers (which is rare, but it happens!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Properly stored, grilled chicken should last for about 3-4 days. For those longer-term storage needs, you can freeze the cooked chicken for up to 3 months; just be sure to seal it well! To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm up gently in the microwave or a skillet.
Pro chef tips
- Pounding the Chicken: Pounding the chicken to an even thickness helps it cook uniformly and prevents drying out.
- Marinating Time: If you have more time, let the chicken marinate for up to a few hours. This enhances the flavor significantly.
- Grill Marks: To get those beautiful grill marks, avoid moving the chicken around too much. Just let it sit and sear before flipping.
Creative twists
If you’re looking to shake things up, here are some fun variations to consider:
- Spicy Kick: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or a few chopped jalapeños to the spice rub for a kick of heat.
- Fruit Salsa: Swap out the avocado for a mango or pineapple salsa for a fruity twist.
- Herbaceous Flavor: Experiment with different herbs like mint or basil in your salsa for a fresh flavor profile.
FAQs
How long does it take to prepare this recipe?
The total preparation time is approximately 30-45 minutes, including marinating the chicken and grilling.
Can I use frozen chicken breast?
Yes, frozen chicken can be used, but you’ll need to thaw it completely before marinating and grilling.
Is there a dairy-free option for the avocado salsa?
The ingredients listed are already dairy-free, but you can add a dollop of dairy-free yogurt if you want a creamier texture without any dairy.
Creating this Fiesta Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa will surely elevate your dinner routine, offering a burst of fresh flavors and a delightful dining experience. Enjoy!
