Fiesta Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa

Name: Fiesta Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-481641H50M47S
Total time: PT-481641H50M47S
Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Ingredients: Chicken breasts; Olive oil; Lime juice; Lime zest; Chili powder; Brown sugar; Salt; Ground cumin; Smoked paprika; Onion powder; Garlic powder; Chipotle chili powder (optional); Pepper; Avocados; Cherry tomatoes or Roma tomatoes; Sweet corn; Red onion; Red bell pepper; Jalapeno pepper; Cilantro; Garlic clove; Lime juice; Ground cumin; Salt; Pepper

Isabella

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Indulge in a burst of flavors with our Fiesta Lime Chicken accompanied by a zesty Avocado Salsa. This tantalizing recipe combines tender chicken breasts infused with a vibrant Fiesta Lime Rub, paired with a refreshing Avocado Salsa bursting with colors and textures. Whether you’re firing up the grill or opting for stovetop cooking, this dish promises to elevate your dining experience. Let’s dive into the details of this mouthwatering recipe that’s perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients:

1 pound chicken breasts, pounded to an even thickness

For the Fiesta Lime Rub:

2 tablespoons olive oil

2 tablespoons lime juice (about 1 lime)

Lime zest from 1 lime

1 tsp each: chili powder, brown sugar

3/4 teaspoon salt

1/2 tsp each: ground cumin, smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder

1/4-1/2 teaspoon chipotle chili powder (optional for more 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 and chopped

Fresh corn from 1 ear of sweet corn

1/3 cup finely chopped red onion

1/2 red bell pepper, chopped

1 jalapeno pepper, diced (seeds separated)

2 tablespoons finely chopped cilantro

1 garlic clove, minced (or 1/4 tsp garlic powder)

2 tablespoons lime juice

1/4 tsp each: ground cumin, salt

1/8 tsp pepper (or more to taste)

Directions:

Prepare the Fiesta Lime Chicken:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the ingredients for the Fiesta Lime Rub.
- Rub the mixture evenly over the chicken breasts. Allow the chicken to marinate for 30 minutes at room temperature or refrigerate for up to 8 hours.
- For stovetop cooking, heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken undisturbed for 3-5 minutes on one side until browned, then turn, cover, and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until cooked through. Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- For grilling, preheat the grill to medium heat (375-450°F). Grill the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side until cooked through. Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
Prepare the Avocado Salsa:
- In a large bowl, combine all ingredients for the salsa except for the avocados. Chill the mixture for at least 30 minutes or up to 24 hours.
- Before serving, gently fold in the chopped avocados. Adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, and jalapeno seeds for extra heat if desired.

Serving Tips:

Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Before serving, sprinkle some freshly chopped cilantro or parsley over the Fiesta Lime Chicken for an added burst of freshness and color.
Pair with Sides: Serve the chicken alongside your favorite sides such as rice, quinoa, or roasted vegetables. The vibrant Avocado Salsa also pairs beautifully with tortilla chips for a refreshing appetizer.

Drizzle with Lime: For an extra citrusy kick, squeeze a wedge of lime over the chicken just before serving to enhance the flavors of the Fiesta Lime Rub.
Add Creamy Sauces: Accompany the dish with creamy sauces like a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of tangy yogurt sauce to balance the zesty flavors.
Create Tacos or Wraps: Use the sliced Fiesta Lime Chicken and Avocado Salsa to fill soft tortillas or lettuce wraps for a delicious Tex-Mex inspired meal.

Storage Tips:

Refrigeration: Store any leftover Fiesta Lime Chicken and Avocado Salsa separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: While the chicken can be frozen, it’s best to freeze it without the Avocado Salsa. Place the cooked and cooled chicken in a freezer-safe container or bag, removing as much air as possible. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating: To reheat the chicken, gently warm it in the microwave or oven until heated through. For best results, add a splash of chicken broth or water to prevent it from drying out.

Avocado Salsa Preservation: To preserve the freshness of the Avocado Salsa, store it separately from the chicken and place a piece of plastic wrap directly on the surface to minimize oxidation. Enjoy it within 1-2 days for optimal flavor and texture.

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FAQs:

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts for this recipe?

Absolutely! While the recipe calls for chicken breasts, you can easily substitute them with boneless, skinless chicken thighs if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as thighs may require a few extra minutes to cook through completely.

Is it necessary to marinate the chicken before cooking?

Marinating the chicken is recommended as it allows the flavors of the Fiesta Lime Rub to penetrate the meat, resulting in a more flavorful and tender dish. However, if you’re short on time, you can still achieve delicious results by skipping the marinating step or reducing the marinating time.

How can I adjust the spiciness level of the Avocado Salsa?

The spiciness of the Avocado Salsa can be adjusted to suit your taste preferences. For a milder salsa, remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapeno pepper before dicing it. Conversely, if you prefer a spicier kick, include some or all of the jalapeno seeds when preparing the salsa. Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional pepper accordingly.

Can I prepare the Avocado Salsa ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the Avocado Salsa ahead of time for convenience. Simply combine all the ingredients except for the avocados in a bowl and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add the chopped avocados to the salsa just before serving to maintain their freshness and prevent them from turning brown. Remember to adjust the seasoning as needed before serving.

Conclusion:

With minimal prep time and maximum flavor, our Fiesta Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa is a crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for any day of the week. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself to a flavorful meal, this recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy the fusion of zesty lime, smoky spices, tender chicken, and creamy avocado salsa for a dining experience that’s nothing short of sensational.