Grilled Chili-Lime Chicken with Avocado & Red Onion Salsa

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

🍗 Ingredients

For the Chili-Lime Chicken Marinade:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs if you prefer)

• 3 tbsp olive oil

• Juice of 2 limes (about 4 tbsp)

• 1 tbsp lime zest

• 3 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 ½ tsp chili powder

• 1 tsp smoked paprika

• 1 tsp ground cumin

• ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

• 1 tsp salt

• ½ tsp black pepper

• 1 tbsp honey or agave syrup (optional, for balance)

For the Avocado & Red Onion Salsa:

• 2 ripe avocados, diced

• ½ medium red onion, finely diced

• 1 small jalapeño, minced (seeds removed for less heat)

• 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped

• Juice of 1 lime

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• Salt & pepper to taste

🔪 Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken

1. In a large bowl or ziplock bag, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, lime zest, garlic, chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, cayenne, salt, pepper, and honey (if using).

2. Add the chicken and coat well in the marinade.

3. Cover (or seal the bag) and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, ideally 2–4 hours for maximum flavor. Avoid marinating for more than 12 hours.

2. Prepare the Grill

• Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.

• Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.

3. Grill the Chicken

1. Remove chicken from the marinade and let excess drip off.

2. Grill for 6–7 minutes per side, depending on thickness, until nicely charred and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

3. Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.

4. Make the Avocado & Red Onion Salsa

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the diced avocado, red onion, jalapeño, and cilantro.

2. Drizzle with lime juice and olive oil.

3. Gently toss to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Keep chilled until ready to serve.

🥗 Serving Suggestions

• Serve chicken sliced with a generous spoonful of salsa on top.

• Pair with grilled corn, rice, or a light salad.

• Optional toppings: extra lime wedges, cotija cheese, or a drizzle of crema.

🔄 Variations

• Add mango or pineapple to the salsa for a tropical twist.

• Swap chicken for shrimp, tofu, or steak with the same marinade.

• Turn it into tacos using corn tortillas and shredded cabbage.

Let me know if you want a printable version or a version for meal prep!