Fiesta Lime Chicken with Avocado (Printable View)

Zesty lime-marinated chicken, grilled and finished with avocado, tomatoes and cilantro for a bright summer main.

# Ingredient List:

→ Chicken & Marinade

01 - 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
02 - 2 limes, juiced, plus 1 additional lime for garnish
03 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
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

→ Topping & Garnishes

11 - 1 large avocado, diced
12 - 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
13 - 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
14 - 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
15 - 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack or Cheddar cheese (optional)
16 - Lime wedges, for serving

# How to Prepare:

01 - In a mixing bowl, fully whisk lime juice, olive oil, minced garlic, honey, chili powder, ground cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
02 - Arrange chicken breasts in a resealable bag or shallow dish and pour marinade over, ensuring each piece is coated thoroughly. Refrigerate for at least 15 minutes, or up to 2 hours for intensified flavor.
03 - Set grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
04 - Remove chicken from marinade, allowing excess to drip off. Grill for 6 to 8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and juices run clear.
05 - While chicken is grilling, combine diced avocado, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and chopped cilantro in a bowl. Season with a light pinch of salt and gently toss to mix.
06 - If using cheese, sprinkle over the chicken during the final 2 minutes on the grill, allowing it to melt completely.
07 - Top grilled chicken with the avocado mixture and a squeeze of fresh lime. Garnish with additional cilantro and lime wedges if desired.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • The zesty lime marinade locks in juiciness you won't believe until you cut into the chicken.
  • It's the ideal dinner when you want crowd-pleasing flavors with barely any fuss or cleanup.
02 -
  • Once I rushed the marinade and the chicken just wasn't as flavorful—give it at least 15 minutes to work.
  • The topping really sings if you salt it right before serving, not earlier or it will weep by dinnertime.
03 -
  • Spritz the grill with oil or rub it with a cut onion to prevent sticking.
  • Let the chicken rest for a couple of minutes after grilling—this helps every bite stay juicy.