Print
clockclock iconcutlerycutlery iconflagflag iconfolderfolder iconinstagraminstagram iconpinterestpinterest iconfacebookfacebook iconprintprint iconsquaressquares iconheartheart iconheart solidheart solid icon

Chile Lime Chicken Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4 from 1 review

This vibrant Chile Lime Chicken recipe features boneless skinless chicken breasts marinated in a zesty blend of dried red chiles, lime juice, jalapeno, and garlic. Grilled to perfection, the chicken is infused with smoky heat and tangy flavors, making it a deliciously refreshing and easy-to-make meal perfect for summer barbecues or weeknight dinners.

  • Total Time: 2 hours 40 minutes
  • Yield: 3 servings

Ingredients

Chicken

  • 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts

Marinade

  • 8 medium dried red chiles (about 4 large chiles)
  • 3 tablespoons lime juice
  • 1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and chopped
  • 3 teaspoons minced garlic
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

Additional

  • 4 limes

Instructions

  1. Trim and prepare chicken: Trim any excess fat from the chicken breasts to ensure even cooking and better texture.
  2. Rehydrate and prepare chiles: Soak the dried red chiles in hot water until they are soft. Remove stems and seeds, then combine these chiles with garlic, lime juice, jalapeno, and salt in a mini food chopper and puree to make the marinade.
  3. Slice limes: Slice the 4 limes into 1/4 inch slices and cut each slice in half to prepare for inserting into the chicken.
  4. Marinate chicken: Cut diagonal slits into the chicken breasts to help the marinade penetrate deeper. Rub the chile-lime mixture all over the chicken and place into a glass baking dish. Insert lime slices into the slits. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 2 to 8 hours to allow flavors to meld.
  5. Preheat grill: Heat your grill to 375°F in preparation for cooking the chicken evenly.
  6. Prepare for grilling: Remove lime slices from the chicken breasts before placing them on the grill. Optionally, place lime slices on a flat top or grill area to impart extra flavor.
  7. Grill chicken: Place the chicken breasts on the grill, cooking undisturbed for 5-7 minutes. Flip and continue cooking for another 5 minutes, then turn again. Continue cooking and turning until the internal temperature reaches 165°F, ensuring the chicken is fully cooked and juicy.

Notes

  • Marinating the chicken longer (up to 8 hours) intensifies the flavor and tenderness.
  • If you don't have a mini food chopper, use a blender or finely mince ingredients by hand.
  • Adjust the number of chiles and jalapeno according to your heat preference.
  • Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F to be safe to eat.
  • The lime slices add a burst of citrus flavor; feel free to grill them for added zest.
  • Author: Amelia
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: Mexican