Chili Lime Grilled Chicken

Name: Chili Lime Grilled Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: Serves about six people
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 2 to 2½ lbs skin-on chicken thighs; ½ cup fresh lime juice; 3 teaspoons fresh lime zest; ¼ cup olive oil; 4 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped; 2 jalapeños, finely chopped; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon honey; 2 teaspoons salt; 1 teaspoon chili powder

Published: June 20, 2025

by Victoria

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This Chili Lime Grilled Chicken can be prepared in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Bursting with Flavor: The combination of lime juice, chili powder, and fresh herbs gives this chicken an irresistible taste that will impress your guests.
Versatile Dish: Serve it with rice, salad, or in tacos; this recipe adapts to any meal or occasion.
Healthy Option: Packed with protein and low in carbs, this grilled chicken makes for a nutritious choice without sacrificing flavor.
Perfectly Grilled: The grilling process locks in moisture and creates a delicious charred exterior that enhances the taste.

Tools and Preparation

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

Essential Tools and Equipment

Grill
Mixing bowl
Whisk
Tongs
Meat thermometer

Importance of Each Tool

Grill: Essential for achieving that smoky flavor and perfect char on your chicken.
Mixing bowl: A large bowl allows for easy mixing of the marinade ingredients without spills.
Tongs: Helpful for flipping the chicken on the grill without piercing the meat, keeping it juicy.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade

2 – 2 1/2 lbs. (900g-1.1kg) skin on chicken thighs
1/2 cup fresh lime juice
3 teaspoons fresh lime zest
1/4 cup olive oil
4 tablespoons fresh cilantro (chopped finely)
2 jalapeño (chopped finely)
4 cloves garlic (chopped finely)
1 tablespoon honey
2 teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon chili powder (or to taste)

For Garnish

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Chili Lime Grilled Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Rinse the chicken thighs under cold water. Remove any bones while keeping the skin intact. Pat them dry with paper towels and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Marinade

In a mixing bowl, combine all marinade ingredients:
* Add lime juice, lime zest, olive oil, cilantro, jalapeños, garlic, honey, salt, and chili powder.
* Whisk until well combined.

Step 3: Marinate the Chicken

Add the chicken thighs to the marinade:
* Ensure each piece is evenly coated.
* Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to let flavors meld.

Step 4: Grill the Chicken

Prepare your grill:
* Preheat it over medium-high heat and brush with oil to prevent sticking.
* Place some garlic, cilantro, and jalapeño from the marinade on top of each chicken thigh.

Cook until golden brown:
* Grill each side until charred and cooked through—about 5 minutes per side.
* Use a meat thermometer to ensure internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

Serve your delightful Chili Lime Grilled Chicken immediately! Enjoy this dish as part of various meals or as a standalone delight at your next gathering.

How to Serve Chili Lime Grilled Chicken

Chili Lime Grilled Chicken is not only a flavorful dish but also very versatile in its presentation. Here are some great serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

On a Bed of Salad

Fresh greens – Serve the grilled chicken on a bed of mixed greens topped with avocado and cherry tomatoes for a refreshing salad.
Cilantro lime dressing – Drizzle with a homemade cilantro lime dressing for added zing and flavor.

In Tacos

Corn tortillas – Shred the grilled chicken and serve it in warm corn tortillas with fresh salsa and avocado slices for delicious tacos.
Pickled onions – Add pickled red onions for an extra crunch and tangy flavor.

With Rice or Quinoa

Cilantro lime rice – Pair the chicken with cilantro lime rice for a delightful combination that complements the flavors.
Quinoa salad – Serve alongside a quinoa salad mixed with black beans, corn, and diced peppers for a nutritious option.

How to Perfect Chili Lime Grilled Chicken

Achieving the perfect Chili Lime Grilled Chicken involves attention to detail during preparation and cooking. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out amazing.

Marinate adequately – Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 2 hours, or overnight if possible, to enhance flavor absorption.
Preheat your grill – Ensure your grill is at high heat before placing the chicken on it. This helps achieve that perfect charred exterior.
Use skin-on thighs – Opt for skin-on chicken thighs as they remain moist during grilling, providing better flavor and texture.
Monitor cooking time – Grill chicken thighs for about 5–7 minutes per side but check for doneness using a meat thermometer (internal temperature should be 165°F).
Let it rest – Allow the grilled chicken to rest for about 5 minutes before slicing; this helps retain juices.
Experiment with spices – Don’t hesitate to adjust chili powder according to your spice preference or add other seasonings like cumin or paprika.

Best Side Dishes for Chili Lime Grilled Chicken

Pairing side dishes with Chili Lime Grilled Chicken can enhance your meal experience. Here are some tasty options that complement its flavors:

Mexican Street Corn – Charred corn on the cob topped with creamy sauce, cheese, and spices makes a perfect side.
Black Bean Salad – A refreshing mix of black beans, corn, bell peppers, and lime juice adds protein and color.
Grilled Vegetables – Seasonal veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus seasoned and grilled alongside the chicken.
Guacamole – Creamy avocado dip served with tortilla chips adds richness that pairs well with spicy grilled chicken.
Cilantro Lime Rice – Fluffy rice cooked with fresh cilantro and lime juice enhances the zesty notes of the chicken.
Pico de Gallo – Fresh tomato salsa made from chopped tomatoes, onions, jalapeños, and cilantro brings freshness to the plate.
Coleslaw – A crunchy slaw adds texture while balancing out the spicy flavors of the main dish.

These sides will surely make your Chili Lime Grilled Chicken meal even more delightful!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Chili Lime Grilled Chicken, there are a few common mistakes that can lead to less-than-ideal results. Here are some tips to help you avoid them.

Skipping the Marinade Time: Marinating the chicken for at least two hours is crucial. This step ensures that the flavors penetrate the meat, making it juicy and flavorful.
Not Patting Chicken Dry: Failing to dry the chicken before marinating can prevent the marinade from sticking well. Always pat your chicken dry with paper towels for better flavor absorption.
Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking chicken for too long can lead to dryness. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure perfectly grilled chicken.
Using Old Ingredients: Fresh ingredients make a significant difference in flavor. Always check your spices, herbs, and lime juice for freshness before using them in your marinade.
Ignoring Grill Temperature: If your grill isn’t hot enough, your chicken won’t sear properly. Preheat your grill until it’s very hot before placing the chicken on it for that perfect char.

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container.
Consume within 3–4 days for best quality.
Allow the chicken to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Chili Lime Grilled Chicken

Use freezer-safe bags or airtight containers.
The chicken can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Label containers with the date to track freshness.

Reheating Chili Lime Grilled Chicken

Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and reheat the chicken for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate, cover loosely, and heat in short intervals of 30 seconds until heated thoroughly.
Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a splash of water or broth. Cover and heat for about 5-7 minutes, flipping occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Chili Lime Grilled Chicken so flavorful?

The combination of fresh lime juice, chili powder, and garlic creates a zesty marinade that infuses deep flavor into the chicken, making it both refreshing and satisfying.

Can I use other cuts of chicken for this recipe?

Yes! While thighs are recommended for their moisture and flavor, you can also use chicken breasts or drumsticks. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

How spicy is Chili Lime Grilled Chicken?

The spice level can vary based on how much jalapeño you use. For milder flavors, reduce or omit jalapeños from the marinade.

Can I prepare Chili Lime Grilled Chicken ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to grill. This enhances flavor even more!

Final Thoughts

Chili Lime Grilled Chicken is not only quick and easy but also bursting with flavor. This dish offers great versatility—feel free to customize it with additional spices or different herbs like basil or parsley. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or just need a tasty weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to impress! Give it a try today!