Elevate your grilling game with our Smoky Chipotle Lime Grilled Chicken! This dish combines the smoky heat of chipotle peppers with the bright zest of lime, creating a flavor-packed marinade that transforms ordinary chicken into a sensational meal. It's a perfect choice for barbecues, family dinners, or any occasion where you crave a little spice and zest!
Preparation and Cooking Times
- Preparation Time (including marinating): 2 hours 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 35 minutes
Servings and Serving Size
- Servings: 4
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
Nutritional Profile (per serving)
- Calories: 260 kcal
- Protein: 35 g
- Carbohydrates: 3 g
- Fat: 11 g
- Sodium: 200 mg
- Sugar: 1 g
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Marinade:
- Juice and zest of 2 limes
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp honey
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Detailed Method of Preparation
- Prepare Marinade: Whisk together lime juice and zest, olive oil, chipotle peppers, garlic, honey, cumin, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Marinate Chicken: Place chicken in a zip-lock bag or shallow dish. Pour marinade over chicken and ensure it's well coated. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for deeper flavor.
- Preheat Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Grill Chicken: Remove chicken from marinade and grill for about 10 minutes per side, or until fully cooked.
- Rest and Serve: Let chicken rest for a few minutes before serving to retain juices.
Tips for Culinary Success
- Marinating Time: The longer the chicken marinates, the more flavorful it will be.
- Avoid Burning: Keep an eye on the grill as the honey in the marinade can cause the chicken to burn more easily.
- Serving Suggestion: Serve with grilled vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I bake this chicken instead of grilling?
Yes, you can bake it in the oven at 200°C (400°F) for about 20-25 minutes.
How can I make this dish less spicy?
Reduce the amount of chipotle peppers in the marinade.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely. Chicken thighs will also work well with this recipe.