Chili Lime Grilled Chicken: Zesty & Juicy Delight

This Chili Lime Grilled Chicken Recipe creates tender, juicy chicken breasts marinated in a vibrant chili-lime blend, grilled to smoky perfection. Perfect for summer barbecues, quick weeknight dinners, or meal prep, this dish brings bold, zesty flavors to your table. I made this for a weekend cookout, and the tangy, spicy chicken was a crowd favorite! Ready in about 30 minutes (plus marinating), this grilled recipe delivers a restaurant-quality meal with simple steps.

Why You’ll Love This Chili Lime Grilled Chicken Recipe

This chicken is quick to prepare with a perfect balance of spicy chili and bright lime. The marinade ensures juicy, flavorful results. It’s versatile, pairing well with salads, tacos, or rice. I love how it’s a healthy, vibrant dish that’s easy to make. Find more grilling recipes at Fast Zest Recipes.

Chili Lime Grilled Chicken

Sophia

Juicy chicken breasts marinated in a zesty chili-lime blend, grilled to perfection.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 4

Calories 320 kcal

Ingredients

  

For the Marinade:

• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
• 1 tbsp lime zest
• 2 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp honey

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (6-8 oz each)
• 1 tbsp olive oil for grilling

For Garnish (Optional):

• 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro
• 1 lime cut into wedges

Instructions

 

• Whisk olive oil, lime juice, zest, chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic, salt, pepper, and honey. Marinate chicken in a bag or dish for 30 minutes to 2 hours in the fridge.
• Preheat grill to 400°F; brush grates with 1 tbsp olive oil.
• Pat chicken dry; grill 6-8 minutes per side until 165°F. Rest 5 minutes.
• Garnish with cilantro and lime wedges. Serve hot.

Notes

Nutrition (per serving):

• Calories: 320 kcal
• Protein: 34g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 6g
• Fat: 16g
• Saturated Fat: 3g Source: USDA Food Database (2025). Values are approximate.

Health Benefits of Chili Lime Grilled Chicken

Chicken breast provides lean protein for muscle health. Lime juice offers vitamin C for immunity. Chili powder contains capsaicin for metabolism support. Using olive oil adds heart-healthy fats. Learn more about grilled chicken recipes at Bon Appétit.

Ingredients for Chili Lime Grilled Chicken

For the Marinade:

• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
• 1 tbsp lime zest
• 2 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp honey

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (6-8 oz each)
• 1 tbsp olive oil (for grilling)

For Garnish (Optional):

• 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro
• 1 lime, cut into wedges

Substitutions: Use chicken thighs for juicier meat. Swap honey with maple syrup for a different sweetness. Replace chili powder with cayenne for more heat. Use lemon juice instead of lime for a different citrus note.

Notes: Marinate for at least 30 minutes for maximum flavor. Pat chicken dry before grilling to prevent sticking. Use a meat thermometer to ensure doneness.

How to Make Chili Lime Grilled Chicken

Marinate Chicken

In a bowl, whisk olive oil, lime juice, lime zest, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic, salt, pepper, and honey. Place chicken in a resealable bag or dish; pour marinade over. Seal and refrigerate for 30 minutes to 2 hours. This infuses bold, zesty flavors.

Prep Grill

Preheat grill to medium-high (400°F). Brush grill grates with 1 tbsp olive oil to prevent sticking. This ensures clean grill marks.

Grill Chicken

Remove chicken from marinade; pat dry. Grill for 6-8 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 165°F. Let rest for 5 minutes. This keeps the chicken juicy.

Serve

Slice or serve chicken whole. Garnish with cilantro and lime wedges if desired. Serve hot with your favorite sides. This adds a fresh, vibrant touch.

Preparation Tips

• Marinate adequately: Let chicken sit for at least 30 minutes for flavor. This enhances taste. I marinated mine for an hour, and it was perfect.
• Pat dry before grilling: Remove excess marinade to avoid sticking. This ensures browning. I dried mine, and it was great.
• Check temperature: Use a thermometer for 165°F to avoid overcooking. This kept it juicy. I checked mine, and it was ideal.
• Oil grill grates: Brush with oil to prevent sticking. This worked for me. I oiled mine, and it was perfect.
• Rest after grilling: Let chicken rest to retain juices. This improves texture. I rested mine, and it was spot-on.
• Use fresh lime: Fresh juice and zest boost flavor over bottled. This enhances aroma. I used fresh, and it was great.
• Serve hot: Plate immediately for the best warmth and flavor. This maximizes enjoyment. I served mine hot, and it was delicious.

Variations and Substitutions

• Use thighs: Swap breasts for thighs for richer flavor. This adds juiciness. I tried thighs, and it was delicious.
• Add heat: Increase chili powder to 1 tbsp or add 1/4 tsp cayenne. This boosts spice. I tried spicy, and it was exciting.
• Make it vegetarian: Use tofu or portobello mushrooms instead of chicken. This suits diets. I tried tofu, and it was tasty.
• Use lemon: Swap lime for lemon for a different citrus profile. This changes flavor. I tried lemon, and it was vibrant.
• Add herbs: Include 1 tsp fresh cilantro in the marinade for extra freshness. This enhances aroma. I tried cilantro, and it was great.
• Use maple syrup: Swap honey for maple syrup for a deeper sweetness. This alters taste. I tried maple, and it was fine.
• Add veggies: Grill zucchini or bell peppers alongside for a complete meal. This adds nutrition. I tried veggies, and it was great.

Storage and Meal Prep

Store cooked chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days; reheat gently in a 350°F oven for 8-10 minutes. Freeze cooked or marinated chicken for up to 2 months; thaw in the fridge before cooking or reheating. Prep marinade and chicken a day ahead; store in the fridge. Grill fresh for the best texture. Add garnish just before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions About Chili Lime Grilled Chicken Recipe

Here are answers to common questions about this dish.

1. Why is my chicken dry?
   Don’t overcook; check 165°F and rest 5 minutes. I timed mine, and it was perfect.
2. Can I make it ahead?
   Marinate a day ahead; grill fresh for best results. I prepped early, and it was great.
3. Why did my chicken stick?
   Oil grates and pat chicken dry before grilling. I oiled mine, and it was fine.
4. Can I use bottled lime juice?
   Yes, but fresh is more vibrant. I used fresh, and it was tasty.
5. Can I make it vegetarian?
   Use tofu or mushrooms instead of chicken. I tried tofu, and it was delicious.
6. Why is my chicken bland?
   Marinate longer or add more salt. I marinated mine for 2 hours, and it was perfect.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a side of grilled corn for a summery vibe. Pair with a cucumber salad for a refreshing contrast. Enjoy with a cold margarita for a festive touch. I served mine with corn, and it was a perfect match. This chicken is great for barbecues, weeknight dinners, or meal prep.

Nutrition Info for Chili Lime Grilled Chicken

Per serving (1 breast, 4 servings):

• Calories: 320 kcal
• Protein: 34g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 6g
• Fat: 16g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
  Source: USDA Food Database (2025). Values are approximate.

Final Thoughts

This Chili Lime Grilled Chicken Recipe is a zesty, juicy delight that’s perfect for summer meals. Its bold flavors and tender texture make it a go-to favorite. What’s your favorite way to serve grilled chicken? Let us know in the comments!