Fiesta Lime Chicken Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Fiesta Lime Chicken is bursting with bold flavors and perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings. The marinade infuses the chicken with a bright citrusy kick, the sauce adds creamy tang, and the cheese ties it all together. It’s easy to prepare, budget-friendly compared to dining out, and can be paired with rice, chips, or fresh veggies for a complete meal.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Chicken breasts, boneless and skinless

• Avocado oil

• Lime juice

• Soy sauce or tamari

• Honey

• Taco seasoning

• Worcestershire sauce

• Salt

• Colby Jack cheese slices

• Ranch dressing

• Mild salsa

• Sour cream

• Fresh cilantro

• Optional toppings: tortilla chips, pico de gallo

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Cut chicken into four equal pieces, cover with plastic wrap, and pound to about 1-inch thickness.

3. In a large bowl, whisk together avocado oil, 2 tablespoons lime juice, soy sauce, honey, taco seasoning, Worcestershire sauce, and ½ teaspoon salt.

4. Add chicken to marinade and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes, flipping once and marinating for an additional 15–45 minutes.

5. Remove chicken from marinade, allowing excess to drip off, and place in a 13×9-inch baking dish. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until cooked through.

6. Meanwhile, whisk together ranch dressing, salsa, sour cream, cilantro, remaining ½ tablespoon lime juice, and ¼ teaspoon salt.

7. Remove chicken from oven, spread each piece with 1–2 tablespoons of sauce, and top with a slice of Colby Jack cheese. Return to oven for 3–5 minutes until cheese is melted.

8. Serve over crushed tortilla chips with extra sauce, pico de gallo, and cilantro if desired.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Cook time: 30 minutes

• Total time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Spicy twist: Use a medium or hot salsa in the sauce for extra heat.

• Grilled version: Grill chicken over medium heat for 4–5 minutes per side instead of baking.

• Cheese swap: Try Pepper Jack for a spicier kick or cheddar for a sharper flavor.

• Low-carb: Skip the tortilla chips and serve over cauliflower rice.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigerate leftover chicken in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days. Freeze for up to 3 months, noting the sauce texture may change slightly after thawing. Reheat in a 350°F oven until warmed through, or microwave in short bursts, covering to prevent dryness.

FAQs

1. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) measured with a meat thermometer.

2. Can I marinate the chicken overnight?

Yes, you can marinate it overnight for a deeper flavor, but avoid exceeding 24 hours to prevent the texture from becoming mushy.

3. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well and will be slightly juicier.

4. Is there a dairy-free version of this recipe?

You can use dairy-free cheese, vegan ranch, and plant-based sour cream for a dairy-free option.

5. Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, the salsa ranch sauce can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

6. How do I keep the chicken juicy?

Avoid overbaking and make sure to marinate the chicken as instructed to lock in moisture.

7. What can I serve with Fiesta Lime Chicken?

It pairs well with Mexican rice, black beans, corn, or a fresh green salad.

8. Can I use bottled lime juice?

Fresh lime juice is preferred for best flavor, but bottled can be used in a pinch.

9. How do I make it extra cheesy?

Add an extra slice of cheese or sprinkle shredded cheese on top before melting.

10. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, simply double all ingredients and use a larger baking dish or two dishes to avoid overcrowding.

Conclusion

Fiesta Lime Chicken is a flavorful, vibrant dish that’s easy to make at home and rivals your favorite restaurant version. With its zesty marinade, creamy sauce, and melty cheese, it’s a satisfying meal that can be customized to your taste and served for any occasion. Once you try this recipe, it might just become a regular on your dinner rotation.

Print