Pepper-Lime Chicken

Cook: 20 min Cuisine: Mexican

Juicy chicken pieces marinated with lime, garlic, and herbs, then broiled to perfection—bright, flavorful, ideal for summer gatherings or quick weeknight dinners.

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Ingredients

  • 2 to 2 1/2 lb. chicken pieces (breasts, thighs, drumsticks)
  • 1/2 tsp. finely shredded lime peel
  • 1/4 cup lime juice
  • 1 tablespoon cooking oil
  • 2 cloves minced garlic
  • 1 tsp. black pepper coarsely ground
  • 1 tsp. dried thyme or basil crushed
  • 1/4 tsp. salt

Instructions

  1. Rinse chicken and pat dry.
  2. Broil chicken about 20 minutes or until lightly browned.

Tips & Substitutions

For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the lime mixture for a few hours or overnight. You can substitute lime juice with lemon juice if you're out of limes. If you prefer a spicier kick, add some cayenne pepper or jalapeños to the marinade. Make sure to adjust cooking time based on the size of your chicken pieces to ensure even cooking.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the pepper-lime chicken with a refreshing salad, like a Southwestern Grilled Chicken Salad, or alongside rice and beans for a fulfilling meal. It pairs beautifully with grilled vegetables or corn on the cob. For a zesty twist, top with fresh cilantro and avocado slices.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover pepper-lime chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. You can also microwave it for a quicker option, but be careful not to overcook and dry it out.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Pepper-Lime Chicken contains roughly 153 calories, with 6g protein, 36g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (53% of the Daily Value), iron (42% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and protein. It also contributes 15g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.

153 kcal 8% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 6.4g 13% DV
Total Fat 2.8g 4% DV
Carbs 36.5g 13% DV
Fiber 14.8g 53% DV
Sugar 0.4g 1% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 152.8mg 7% DV
Potassium 764.5mg 16% DV
Cholesterol 0.6mg

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 49.4mcg 5% DV
Vitamin C 24.3mg 27% DV
Calcium 283.3mg 22% DV
Iron 7.5mg 42% DV
Diet fit High-fiber Under 400 cal Low-fat

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 boneless chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can definitely use boneless chicken pieces. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as boneless cuts will cook faster than bone-in pieces. Ensure they are cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

What can I serve with pepper-lime chicken?

This dish pairs well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with steamed rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad. For a heartier meal, you could also serve it alongside Anasazia Beans(Great Low-Fat Dish) for a nutritious complement.

Can I prepare the marinade in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the marinade a day ahead, allowing the flavors to meld. Just keep it refrigerated until you're ready to marinate the chicken. This will help enhance the flavor profile of the dish when you cook it.

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).

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