Fiesta Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bold & Fresh Flavors: Lime-marinated chicken with a tangy, creamy avocado salsa.
• Healthy & Nutritious: Packed with protein, healthy fats, and vitamins.
• Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and minimal prep time make this perfect for a weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
• 1 tablespoon lime zest
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon cumin
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Avocado Salsa:

• 2 ripe avocados, diced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• ½ red onion, finely chopped
• ½ jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped (adjust for spice preference)
• ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and black pepper to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Marinate the Chicken:

• In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, lime zest, chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
• Add the chicken and coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor).

2. Cook the Chicken:

• Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a baking dish.
• Arrange marinated chicken in a single layer.
• Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

3. Prepare the Avocado Salsa:

• While the chicken is baking, combine avocados, tomatoes, red onion, jalapeño, and cilantro in a bowl.
• In a small dish, mix lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper, then toss with the salsa.

4. Serve & Enjoy:

• Let the chicken rest for a few minutes, then slice.
• Spoon the avocado salsa over the chicken and serve with rice, quinoa, or roasted veggies.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Marinating Time: 30 minutes (optional)
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40-55 minutes

Variations

• Grilled Version: Instead of baking, grill the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side.
• Dairy-Free Option: Add a dollop of dairy-free sour cream or cashew cream for extra richness.
• Extra Spicy: Use a full jalapeño or add a pinch of cayenne to the marinade.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze cooked chicken (without salsa) for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat or microwave for 1-2 minutes.

FAQs

Can I grill the chicken instead of baking it?

Yes! Grill for 5-7 minutes per side or until fully cooked.

How do I keep avocados from browning?

Toss them with extra lime juice and store in an airtight container.

What can I serve with this dish?

It pairs well with brown rice, quinoa, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad.

Conclusion

This Fiesta Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa is a fresh, zesty dish bursting with bold flavors. Easy to prepare and packed with nutrients, it’s a perfect meal for any occasion. Try it grilled or baked, and enjoy the taste of summer on your plate!