Fiesta Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa

Introduction

There’s something undeniably vibrant about the flavors of the Southwest, and this Fiesta Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa captures that essence perfectly. The first time I made this dish for my family, the kitchen was filled with a mouthwatering aroma that had everyone eagerly awaiting dinner. As we sat down to enjoy it, the burst of lime, the smokiness of the spices, and the creamy freshness of the avocado salsa left us all in awe. Each bite felt like a celebration, and it quickly became a family favorite, especially on warm evenings when we want something refreshing yet satisfying. If you’re looking to add a zing to your dinner table, this recipe is sure to please!

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
• 1 tablespoon lime zest
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon cumin
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

For the Avocado Salsa:

• 2 ripe avocados, diced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• ½ red onion, finely chopped
• ½ jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped (adjust for spice preference)
• ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions

Chicken Marinade:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, lime zest, chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the chicken breasts or thighs to the marinade, ensuring they are evenly coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor.

Cooking the Chicken:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish.
2. Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the marinade (Note: Do not reuse marinade that has been in contact with raw chicken).
3. Arrange the chicken in a single layer in the prepared baking dish.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Preparing the Avocado Salsa:

1. While the chicken is baking, prepare the avocado salsa.
2. In a medium bowl, combine diced avocados, cherry tomatoes, red onion, jalapeño pepper (if using), and chopped cilantro.
3. In a separate small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour the dressing over the avocado mixture and toss gently to combine.

Serving Suggestions:

1. Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
2. To serve, spoon a generous amount of avocado salsa onto a plate. Place the sliced chicken on top and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

• Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with salsa
• Calories: Approximately 350
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 200mg
• Fat: 21g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 17g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 27g
• Cholesterol: 75mg

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus marinating time)
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: Approximately 1 hour (including marinating)

How to Serve

• Serve the chicken hot with a generous scoop of avocado salsa on top.
• Garnish with additional lime wedges and cilantro for extra flavor.
• Pair with rice, quinoa, or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal.
• Enjoy with tortilla chips for a fun appetizer or side.

Additional Tips

1. Marinating: For best flavor, allow the chicken to marinate longer, ideally overnight.
2. Avocado Freshness: To keep the avocado salsa fresh, serve it immediately after preparing. If you need to make it ahead, add lime juice to prevent browning.
3. Spice Level: Adjust the amount of jalapeño in the salsa based on your heat preference; you can omit it for a milder flavor.
4. Grilling Option: This recipe works beautifully on the grill. Just grill the marinated chicken for about 6-8 minutes on each side.
5. Leftovers: Use any leftover chicken in salads, wraps, or tacos for a quick meal.

Recipe Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with grilled zucchini, eggplant, or portobello mushrooms marinated in the same lime mixture.
• Spice it Up: Add diced chipotle peppers in adobo sauce to the avocado salsa for a smoky kick.
• Fruit Salsa: Mix in some diced mango or pineapple into the avocado salsa for a tropical twist.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with Mexican rice or cilantro-lime rice for a complete meal.
• Pair with a light white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, to complement the flavors.
• Create a taco bar by serving the chicken and salsa with soft tortillas, shredded lettuce, and cheese.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: The cooked chicken can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. The avocado salsa is best eaten fresh and should not be frozen.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use frozen chicken?

• Yes, just make sure to thaw it completely before marinating and cooking.

1. What if I don’t have lime?

• You can substitute lime juice with lemon juice, though the flavor will be slightly different.

1. How can I make this dish spicier?

• Add more jalapeño or include crushed red pepper flakes in the marinade.

1. Can I grill the chicken instead of baking?

• Absolutely! Grilling adds a great smoky flavor.

1. Is this recipe gluten-free?

• Yes, all the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

1. What sides go well with this dish?

• Black beans, corn salad, or a simple green salad make excellent sides.

1. How do I know when the chicken is done?

• Use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

1. Can I make the avocado salsa in advance?

• It’s best made fresh to prevent browning, but you can prepare the other ingredients ahead of time and mix them just before serving.

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

• Yes, chicken thighs will work great and may offer a juicier texture.

1. What can I do with leftover avocado salsa?

• It’s perfect as a topping for tacos, nachos, or even a dip for chips!

Conclusion

Fiesta Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa is not just a meal; it’s an experience bursting with fresh flavors and vibrant colors. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or looking for a quick weeknight dinner, this dish will surely impress. With its combination of zesty lime-marinated chicken and creamy avocado salsa, it’s a delightful way to bring the taste of the Southwest to your table. Enjoy making this recipe as much as your family will enjoy eating it!

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