Fiesta Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa

If you love bold, fresh flavors and a meal that bursts with color, then this Fiesta Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa is just what you need! This dish is perfect for anyone who enjoys a balance of smoky, citrusy, and slightly spicy flavors paired with the creamy, refreshing contrast of avocado salsa. Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner, a healthy meal prep option, or a dish to impress at your next barbecue, this recipe has you covered.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fresh and Healthy: Packed with lean protein, healthy fats, and fresh vegetables.
• Easy to Make: Simple steps with ingredients that are easy to find.
• Great for Any Occasion: Perfect for meal prep, family dinners, or summer cookouts.
• Customizable: Adjust the spice level and ingredients to suit your preferences.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Fiesta Lime Chicken:

• 1 pound chicken breasts (pounded to even thickness)

Fiesta Lime Rub:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lime juice (about 1 lime)
• Zest from 1 lime
• 1 teaspoon each: chili powder, brown sugar
• 3/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon each: ground cumin, smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder
• 1/4-1/2 teaspoon chipotle chili powder (optional for extra heat)
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper

For the Avocado Salsa:

• 2 medium avocados (ripe but firm, chopped)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes (quartered) or 2 Roma tomatoes (seeded, chopped)
• 1 ear sweet corn (kernels removed)
• 1/3 cup red onion (finely chopped)
• 1/2 red bell pepper (chopped)
• 1 jalapeno pepper (diced, seeds separated)
• 2 tablespoons cilantro (finely chopped)
• 1 garlic clove (minced) or ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 1/4 teaspoon each: ground cumin, salt
• 1/8 teaspoon pepper (or more to taste)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Fiesta Lime Chicken

1. Make the Spice Rub: In a small bowl, whisk together all the rub ingredients.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Rub the mixture evenly over the chicken breasts. Let the chicken sit for at least 30 minutes at room temperature, or refrigerate for up to 8 hours for more flavor. If refrigerated, bring to room temperature before cooking.

Cooking the Chicken

Stovetop Method:

1. Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat and grease lightly.
2. Cook the chicken undisturbed for 3-5 minutes until nicely browned.
3. Flip, cover, and reduce heat to medium. Cook for another 5-7 minutes or until fully cooked (internal temp of 165°F).
4. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing.

Grill Method:

1. Preheat the grill to medium heat (375-450°F) and grease the grates.
2. Grill the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
3. Remove from the grill and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.

Making the Avocado Salsa

1. Prep the Ingredients: Toss all ingredients except avocados in a large bowl.
2. Chill: Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld.
3. Add Avocados: Just before serving, gently fold in the avocados.
4. Taste and Adjust: Add extra salt, pepper, or jalapeno seeds for more heat if desired.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve over cilantro lime rice or quinoa for a complete meal.
• Wrap in warm tortillas for delicious chicken tacos.
• Pair with a side of black beans or a simple green salad.
• Enjoy with a refreshing margarita or lime-infused sparkling water.

Tips & Variations

• Make it Dairy-Free: Replace the rub’s brown sugar with coconut sugar and use a dairy-free yogurt alternative if desired.
• Amp Up the Heat: Add more chipotle chili powder or an extra jalapeno.
• Extra Smoky Flavor: Use smoked salt instead of regular salt.
• Swap the Protein: This recipe works great with shrimp, salmon, or tofu for a vegetarian option.

How to Store Leftovers

• Chicken: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Avocado Salsa: Best enjoyed fresh, but can be stored for 1 day with plastic wrap pressed directly against the surface to prevent browning.
• Reheating: Warm chicken in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave for 1-2 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes! Chicken thighs will be even juicier. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.

2. How do I prevent my avocado from turning brown?

Mix the avocado in just before serving and add an extra splash of lime juice.

3. Can I make the rub in advance?

Absolutely! Store the spice rub in an airtight container for up to a month.

4. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Just make sure any sides or tortillas you serve with it are gluten-free as well.

Try This Delicious Recipe Today!

This Fiesta Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa is packed with bold flavors, fresh ingredients, and a zesty kick that will keep you coming back for more. It’s an easy-to-make, restaurant-quality dish right at home.

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