Fiesta Lime Chicken Avocado (Printable)
Grilled lime-marinated chicken topped with avocado, tomatoes, and cilantro for a bright, summery main.
# Ingredient List:
→ Chicken & Marinade
01 - 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
02 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
03 - 2 limes, juiced
04 - 2 garlic cloves, minced
05 - 1 tablespoon honey
06 - 1 teaspoon chili powder
07 - 1 teaspoon ground cumin
08 - 1 teaspoon paprika
09 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
10 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
11 - 1 lime, sliced for garnish
→ Topping & Garnishes
12 - 1 large avocado, diced
13 - 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
14 - 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
15 - 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
16 - 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack or Cheddar cheese (optional)
17 - Lime wedges, for serving
# Steps:
01 - In a bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, minced garlic, honey, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
02 - Place chicken breasts in a resealable bag or shallow dish and pour marinade over them, ensuring all pieces are evenly coated. Refrigerate for at least 15 minutes, or up to 2 hours for enhanced flavor.
03 - Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
04 - Remove chicken from marinade and allow excess to drip off. Grill chicken for 6 to 8 minutes per side, or until fully cooked with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
05 - Combine diced avocado, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and cilantro in a bowl. Season lightly with salt and mix gently to combine.
06 - If using cheese, sprinkle it over the chicken during the final 2 minutes of grilling to allow it to melt.
07 - Arrange grilled chicken on plates, top with avocado mixture, and finish with a squeeze of fresh lime. Garnish with additional cilantro and lime wedges as desired.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- The juicy, marinated chicken soaks up every bit of lime and spice, making every bite pop.
- It's incredibly easy to pull off on a weeknight, but never fails to get compliments from friends gathered around the patio table.
02 -
- Once I rushed the marinating, and the flavor barely made it past the surface—give it a good soak for best results.
- Waiting to slice the avocado until serving keeps it vibrant and delicious, not mushy or brown.
03 -
- Let chicken come close to room temperature before grilling so it cooks more evenly.
- A little honey in the marinade makes for irresistible caramelization every time.