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Chili Lime Chicken

Juicy Chili Lime Chicken marinated in fresh lime juice, garlic, and warm spices, then seared until golden and coated in a bold, zesty sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or tacos.
Prep Time: 10 minutesMarinate Time: 30 minutesCook Time: 15 minutesTotal Time: 55 minutes
Servings: 4Course: Main DishCuisine: American / Tex-MexMethod: Pan-SearedDifficulty: Easy

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Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1½ lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • Zest of 1 lime
  • ¼ cup fresh lime juice
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 teaspoons chili powder
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

Method
 

  1. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime zest, lime juice, garlic, chili powder, paprika, honey, salt, and pepper.
  2. Add chicken and toss until fully coated. Marinate for at least 30 minutes.
  3. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat with a drizzle of oil.
  4. Add chicken and cook undisturbed for 4–5 minutes until golden and crispy.
  5. Flip and cook another 4–5 minutes until cooked through (165°F / 74°C).
  6. Pour remaining marinade into the pan and simmer briefly until slightly thickened.