Description
A bold and fresh chicken recipe that features a zesty lime marinade with smoky chili flavor, perfect for grilling, baking, or air frying.
Ingredients
For the Marinade
- 1/4 cup lime juice (fresh is best, but bottled works in a pinch)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon chili powder (or substitute with paprika and cayenne)
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (or use garlic powder)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional, for color)
- 1/2 teaspoon oregano (optional, for earthy flavor)
For the Chicken
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken thighs (or breasts, if preferred)
Instructions
Preparation
- Pat the chicken dry with paper towels.
- Mix lime juice, olive oil, chili powder, cumin, garlic, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Add chicken to the marinade and coat well.
- Marinate in the fridge for a minimum of 20 minutes, ideally 1 to 4 hours.
Cooking
- For grilling: Preheat grill to medium high. Oil the grates and grill thighs for about 5 to 7 minutes per side, breasts for 6 to 8 minutes per side.
- For baking: Preheat oven to 425°F. Place chicken on a sheet pan and bake thighs for 18 to 24 minutes, breasts for 18 to 22 minutes.
- For air frying: Preheat air fryer to 380°F. Cook thighs for 10 to 14 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Ensure the chicken reaches 165°F in the thickest part. Rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
Notes
Serve with fresh lime wedges and chopped cilantro. The chicken pairs well with rice, beans, or in taco form. Marinating longer than 8 hours can change the chicken’s texture.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Main Course
- Cuisine: Mexican