why make this recipe
Fiesta Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa is a bright and flavorful dish that brings a taste of the sun to your table. It’s easy to make, packed with delicious ingredients, and perfect for both family dinners and special gatherings. The combination of zesty chicken and creamy avocado salsa not only pleases the palate but also provides a good balance of protein and healthy fats.
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 for salsa
- 1 tablespoon olive oil for salsa
- Salt and pepper for salsa, to taste
Directions:
- 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.
- Cook the Chicken: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a baking dish. Remove chicken from marinade and discard the marinade. Place chicken in the dish and bake for 20–25 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- 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 together lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Drizzle over the salsa and toss gently.
- 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
This dish is best served warm. You can place the sliced chicken on a plate and generously spoon the avocado salsa on top. It pairs well with rice, quinoa, or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal.
how to store Fiesta Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa
If you have leftovers, store the chicken and salsa separately in airtight containers. The chicken can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days. However, the avocado salsa is best enjoyed fresh and may brown if stored too long. If you must store it, try adding some extra lime juice to the top to help preserve its color.
tips to make Fiesta Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa
- For extra flavor, let the chicken marinate overnight.
- Use fresh lime juice for the best flavor.
- Adjust the spiciness of the salsa by adding more or less jalapeño.
- Serve the chicken with tortilla chips for a fun twist.
variation
You can easily turn this into a vegetarian dish by replacing chicken with grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms. The avocado salsa will still add that wonderful freshness.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, but make sure to thaw them before marinating and cooking.
2. What can I substitute for lime juice?
Lemon juice can be a good alternative if you don’t have lime juice on hand.
3. Can I prepare the salsa ahead of time?
Yes, but it’s best to make it fresh to avoid browning. If making ahead, store it in the fridge and add a little lime juice before serving.
