why make this recipe

Fiesta Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa is a vibrant and healthy dish that’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends. The marinated chicken is bursting with zesty flavors, and the avocado salsa adds a fresh and creamy touch. This recipe is quick to prepare, making it a great option for busy weeknights while still impressing your guests.

how to make Fiesta Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
• 1 tablespoon lime zest
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 ripe avocados, diced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped (optional)
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, lime zest, and spices. Add the chicken and coat well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours.

2. Cook the Chicken: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a baking dish. Remove chicken from the marinade and discard the marinade. Place the chicken in the dish and bake for 20–25 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

3. Make the Avocado Salsa: While the chicken bakes, combine avocado, cherry tomatoes, red onion, jalapeño, and cilantro in a bowl. In a separate bowl, whisk lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Drizzle this mixture over the salsa and toss gently.

4. Serve: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve topped with avocado salsa.

how to serve Fiesta Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa

Serve the Fiesta Lime Chicken on a platter and generously top it with the fresh avocado salsa. It pairs well with rice, quinoa, or even tortillas for a complete meal. Don’t forget to squeeze a bit of extra lime juice for added flavor!

how to store Fiesta Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa

If you have leftovers, store the chicken and avocado salsa in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator. The chicken can last up to 3-4 days, while the avocado salsa is best consumed within 1-2 days to maintain its freshness.

tips to make Fiesta Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa

• Allow the chicken to marinate longer for a deeper flavor.
• Feel free to customize the spices in the marinade according to your taste.
• If you want more heat, leave the seeds in the jalapeño or add some hot sauce to the salsa.

variation

You can switch up the veggies in the avocado salsa by adding corn or black beans for extra texture and flavor. Alternatively, you can grill the chicken instead of baking it for a smoky taste.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs work well in this recipe and will remain juicy and tender.

2. How can I make this dish dairy-free?
This recipe is already dairy-free, so you can enjoy it without any modifications.

3. Can I prepare the salsa ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the salsa a few hours in advance. Just keep it covered in the fridge to prevent the avocados from browning.