Grilled Chili-Lime Chicken with Avocado & Red Onion Salsa

A flavor-packed dish, Grilled Chili-Lime Chicken with Avocado & Red Onion Salsa is perfect for lunch or dinner. The tender grilled chicken is glazed in a zesty chili-lime sauce and topped with creamy avocado and refreshing red onion salsa. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also brings together vibrant flavors that will delight your taste buds on any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, you can enjoy a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Fresh Ingredients: The combination of lime, avocado, and fresh veggies creates a bright and enticing dish that is both healthy and satisfying.
• Versatile Pairing: This grilled chicken can be served alone or paired with rice, tortillas, or a fresh salad for a complete meal experience.
• Customizable Flavor: Adjust the spice level by adding jalapeño or changing the amount of chili powder to suit your taste preferences.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make extra servings to enjoy throughout the week for an easy and flavorful lunch option.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delightful recipe, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill or grill pan
• Mixing bowl
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill or grill pan: Essential for achieving that perfect char-grilled flavor on the chicken.
• Mixing bowl: Necessary for marinating the chicken and mixing the salsa ingredients easily.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes it easier to slice ingredients like onion and avocado precisely.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables without damaging your countertops.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:
* 1 chicken breast
* 1 tbsp olive oil
* Juice of lime
* 1 tsp chili powder
* 1 tsp cumin
* Salt & black pepper to taste

For the Red Onion Salsa:
* 1 red onion, thinly sliced
* 1 cup diced tomato
* 1 tbsp chopped cilantro
* 1 jalapeño (optional), finely chopped
* Juice of lime
* Salt to taste

Other:
* 1 avocado, sliced
* Fresh cilantro (for garnish)

How to Make Grilled Chili-Lime Chicken with Avocado & Red Onion Salsa

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine olive oil, lime juice, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Coat the chicken thoroughly in the marinade. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes or refrigerate overnight for deeper flavor.

Step 2: Grill the Chicken

Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook the marinated chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Once cooked through, remove from heat and let rest before slicing.

Step 3: Make the Salsa

In another mixing bowl, combine thinly sliced red onion, diced tomato, chopped cilantro, lime juice, jalapeño (if using), and salt. Mix well and let it sit for about 5 minutes to meld all flavors together.

Step 4: Assemble the Plate

On a plate, place slices of grilled chicken. Top generously with red onion salsa and slices of fresh avocado. Garnish with additional cilantro if desired.

Step 5: Serve Fresh

Serve immediately while fresh. This dish pairs wonderfully on its own or alongside rice, warm tortillas, or a crisp salad. Enjoy your delicious Grilled Chili-Lime Chicken with Avocado & Red Onion Salsa!

How to Serve Grilled Chili-Lime Chicken with Avocado & Red Onion Salsa

Grilled Chili-Lime Chicken with Avocado & Red Onion Salsa is a vibrant dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you prefer it simple or as part of a larger meal, these serving suggestions will enhance your dining experience.

On Its Own

• Enjoy the grilled chicken topped with salsa for a light and flavorful meal.

With Rice

• Serve over a bed of fluffy rice to soak up the zesty flavors of the chicken and salsa.

In Tacos

• Shred the chicken and fill soft tortillas, adding extra salsa and avocado for a delightful taco treat.

With Fresh Salad

• Pair with a fresh salad for a refreshing side that complements the spicy notes of the dish.

On Toasted Bread

• Top slices of toasted bread with the chicken and salsa for a unique bruschetta-style appetizer.

How to Perfect Grilled Chili-Lime Chicken with Avocado & Red Onion Salsa

Perfecting this dish involves attention to detail and some cooking techniques. Follow these tips to elevate your grilled chicken experience.

• Marinate Longer: For deeper flavor, marinate the chicken for a few hours or overnight in the fridge.
• Use High Heat: Ensure your grill is hot before cooking; this helps achieve great grill marks and locks in moisture.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the chicken to rest after grilling ensures juiciness; cutting it too soon can lead to dryness.
• Taste as You Go: Adjust seasonings in both the marinade and salsa based on personal preference for balance.
• Fresh Ingredients Matter: Use fresh lime juice and ripe avocados for the best flavor and texture in your dish.
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add other spices like paprika or garlic powder to customize your chicken’s flavor profile.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Chili-Lime Chicken with Avocado & Red Onion Salsa

Pairing your Grilled Chili-Lime Chicken with complementary sides can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Cilantro Lime Rice: A fragrant rice dish that enhances the zesty flavors of the chicken.
2. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus tossed in olive oil make a colorful addition.
3. Black Bean Salad: A hearty salad combining black beans, corn, tomatoes, and lime juice adds protein and freshness.
4. Quinoa Salad: Lightly seasoned quinoa mixed with diced vegetables provides an excellent source of protein and fiber.
5. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn brushed with lime butter brings sweetness that balances spicy flavors.
6. Chips and Guacamole: Crispy tortilla chips served with creamy guacamole create a fun appetizer or side option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Grilled Chili-Lime Chicken with Avocado & Red Onion Salsa, it’s easy to overlook a few key details. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Skipping the Marinade: Not marinating the chicken can lead to bland flavors. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 15 minutes, or ideally overnight, for maximum taste.

• Using Low-Quality Chicken: Subpar chicken can ruin your dish. Choose fresh, high-quality chicken breast for the best texture and flavor in your grilled dish.

• Overcooking the Chicken: Overcooked chicken can become dry. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

• Neglecting the Salsa: Making the salsa last minute can result in muted flavors. Prepare your red onion salsa ahead of time and let it sit for about 5 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

• Forgetting Garnishes: Skipping garnishes may make your dish look less appealing. Always finish with fresh cilantro for a pop of color and flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Grilled Chili-Lime Chicken with Avocado & Red Onion Salsa

• Wrap portions of grilled chicken in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Grilled Chili-Lime Chicken with Avocado & Red Onion Salsa

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken on a baking sheet and cover with foil; heat for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Place chicken on a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat in intervals of 1 minute until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of broth or water, and cook the chicken until heated, turning occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Grilled Chili-Lime Chicken with Avocado & Red Onion Salsa.

How spicy is Grilled Chili-Lime Chicken with Avocado & Red Onion Salsa?

The spice level is adjustable based on how much chili powder you use. You can also omit jalapeño from the salsa if you prefer milder flavors.

Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

Yes! This recipe works well with turkey or even lamb if you want something different while maintaining those bold flavors.

How do I store leftovers from Grilled Chili-Lime Chicken with Avocado & Red Onion Salsa?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze them for later enjoyment.

What can I serve with this dish?

This flavorful grilled chicken pairs wonderfully with rice, tortillas, or a fresh salad. Feel free to get creative!

Final Thoughts

Grilled Chili-Lime Chicken with Avocado & Red Onion Salsa is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding various toppings or sides according to your preference. Whether you’re having it for lunch or dinner, this dish promises vibrant flavors that will satisfy every palate. Give it a try today!