Fiesta Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa
Ingredients:
. 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
. 2 tablespoons olive oil
. 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
. 1 tablespoon lime zest
. 1 teaspoon chili powder
. 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
. 1/2 teaspoon cumin
. 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
. 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
. Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
For the Avocado Salsa:
. 2 ripe avocados, diced
. 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
. 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
. 1/2 jalapeno pepper, seeded and finely chopped (adjust for spice preference)
. 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
. 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
. 1 tablespoon olive oil
. Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Directions:
. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, lime zest, chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
. Add the chicken breasts or thighs to the marinade, ensuring they are evenly coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor.
. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish.
. Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the marinade.
. Arrange the chicken in a single layer in the prepared baking dish.
. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
. While the chicken is baking, prepare the avocado salsa.
. In a medium bowl, combine diced avocados, cherry tomatoes, red onion, jalapeno pepper, and chopped cilantro.
. In a separate small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
. Pour the dressing over the avocado mixture and toss gently to combine.
. Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
. To serve, spoon a generous amount of avocado salsa onto a plate. Place the sliced chicken on top and enjoy!
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes
Kcal: 320 kcal per serving | Servings: 4 servings
Fiesta Lime Chicken is a vibrantly delicious dish that combines zesty marinated chicken with fresh, creamy avocado salsa. To elevate this recipe, consider using farm-fresh ingredients. For an added layer of flavor, try grilling the chicken instead of baking it. The smokiness from the grill complements the spices beautifully. Avocado is not only a delicious addition but also provides healthy fats, making this meal both nutritious and satisfying. Pair the chicken with a side of quinoa or brown rice to create a more substantial meal. You can also customize the salsa by adding diced mango for a sweet twist or swapping out lime juice for lemon to change the flavor profile. This recipe is adaptable for various dietary needs; it can easily be made low-carb, gluten-free, and suitable for those seeking a healthy choice. With quick prep and cooking times, it's perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining guests. Make sure to adjust the salt, lime, and spices according to your taste preference to create your perfect Fiesta Lime Chicken that everyone will love!
put that over a salad and it will be amazing