Mexican Lime Chicken
Mexican Lime Chicken offers tender chicken with bright lime flavor, topped with melty cheese and served over crispy tortilla strips, perfect for a flavorful Mexican-inspired meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix marinade ingredients in a medium bowl.
- Add the chicken and chill for 2 hours.
- Preheat oven to high broil.
- Cut the chicken into strips for faster cooking under broiler.
- Cook the chicken until done.
- Arrange the chicken in a baking pan.
- Spread a layer of Mexi-ranch dressing on each portion of chicken.
- Sprinkle 1/4 cup of shredded cheese on each piece.
- Broil for 2 to 3 minutes, or until the cheese has melted.
- Spread a bed of tortilla strips on each of 4 plates.
- Slide a chicken portion onto the chips and serve with your favorite rice or other Mexican dish.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, marinate the chicken overnight if time allows. You can substitute lime juice with lemon juice for a slightly different taste. If you prefer, use a mix of low-sodium teriyaki sauce and soy sauce to control sodium levels. To enhance the dish, add chopped cilantro or jalapeños before serving. This recipe also works well with boneless thighs for those who like a juicier cut of meat.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Mexican Lime Chicken over a bed of tortilla strips, which adds a delightful crunch. Pair it with a side of Mexican rice or beans for a complete meal. It also goes well with a fresh avocado salad or a dollop of sour cream. This dish makes a great filling for a Chicken Burrito or can be served alongside Enchilada Suiza for a festive spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a microwave-safe dish with a splash of water to keep it moist, cover, and heat on medium until warmed through. For a crispier texture, reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mexican Lime Chicken contains roughly 50 calories, with 5g protein, 7g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (55% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2675mg per serving (116% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but make sure to thaw them completely before marinating. It's best to marinate for at least 2 hours, but overnight is ideal for deeper flavor absorption. Cooking times may vary slightly, so ensure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F.
What can I use instead of teriyaki sauce?
If you don't have teriyaki sauce, a mixture of soy sauce, honey, and a splash of rice vinegar can work as a substitute. This will give a similar sweet and savory flavor profile. You can also try a homemade marinade with soy sauce, brown sugar, and garlic if you prefer to control the ingredients.
Is this recipe spicy?
This recipe is not inherently spicy, but you can easily add heat by incorporating sliced jalapeños into the marinade or topping the cooked chicken. For a mild flavor, you can omit any spicy ingredients and serve with a cooling side like sour cream or guacamole.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).