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EASY Fiesta Lime Chicken Recipe

Juicy chicken coated in a smoky lime spice rub.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Mexican-Inspired

Ingredients
  

Fiesta Lime Rub

  • 1 pound chicken breasts pounded to an even thickness
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons lime juice
  • Zest of 1 lime
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon brown sugar
  • ¾ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon ground cumin
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ¼ –½ teaspoon chipotle chili powder optional
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Avocado Salsa

  • 2 medium avocados ripe but firm, chopped
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes quartered
  • Corn kernels from 1 sweet corn ear
  • ⅓ cup finely chopped red onion
  • ½ red bell pepper chopped
  • 1 jalapeño pepper diced
  • 2 tablespoons finely chopped cilantro
  • 1 garlic clove minced
  • 2 tablespoons lime juice
  • ¼ teaspoon ground cumin
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ⅛ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions
 

  • In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, lime zest, chili powder, brown sugar, salt, cumin, smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, chipotle chili powder, and black pepper.
  • Coat the chicken breasts evenly with the rub mixture, making sure every side is covered.
  • Let the chicken rest at room temperature for 30 minutes, or refrigerate for up to 8 hours for deeper flavor. Bring refrigerated chicken to room temperature before cooking.
  • While the chicken marinates, prepare the avocado salsa. Combine the avocados, tomatoes, corn, red onion, bell pepper, jalapeño, cilantro, garlic, lime juice, cumin, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Gently toss and refrigerate until ready to serve.
  • Heat a grill, grill pan, or large skillet over medium-high heat.
  • Cook the chicken for 5–7 minutes per side, depending on thickness, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  • Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and let it rest for 5 minutes.
  • Top each chicken breast generously with avocado salsa and serve immediately. This Fiesta Lime Chicken Recipe is best enjoyed fresh.

Notes

  • Serve with cilantro lime rice, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad.
  • Add extra lime wedges for serving.
  • Substitute chicken thighs for chicken breasts if preferred.
  • Cotija cheese can be sprinkled over the salsa for added flavor.