Pollo Con Pico De Gallo
Juicy grilled chicken breasts marinated in teriyaki and lime, served with fresh pico de gallo for a vibrant, flavorful meal perfect for casual gatherings or weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Rinse chicken breasts and pat dry.
- Place chicken in a large plastic bag.
- Combine teriyaki sauce, grated lime peel, lime juice, and pressed garlic.
- Pour marinade over chicken and marinate for 1 hour or longer.
- Remove chicken from marinade, reserving the marinade.
- Grill chicken until done, turning and basting with the reserved marinade, about 8 to 10 minutes.
- Place grilled chicken on a bed of lettuce and serve with pico de gallo and warm tortillas.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding fresh cilantro or jalapeño to the marinade. If you don't have teriyaki sauce, a mix of soy sauce and honey can work as a substitute. Ensure the chicken is fully coated in marinade for optimal flavor infusion. For a healthier option, try grilling instead of pan-frying and serve with sides like a Southwestern Chicken Salad or simple steamed vegetables.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the grilled chicken on a bed of crisp lettuce, accompanied by fresh pico de gallo and warm tortillas for a complete meal. This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of rice or black beans. For an added crunch, consider serving with tortilla chips or a refreshing salad. Browse more Mexican recipes for additional side ideas.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through. Alternatively, reheat on a grill for a few minutes to retain its charred flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pollo Con Pico De Gallo contains roughly 19 calories, with 1g protein, 3g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 767mg per serving (33% 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 other types of chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use chicken thighs or drumsticks instead of breast halves. Just adjust the cooking time as darker meat tends to take longer to cook through. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safety.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add heat, include chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper in the marinade. You can also serve with a spicy salsa or hot sauce on the side for those who enjoy extra spice.
Is it necessary to marinate the chicken?
While marinating enhances flavor and tenderness, it's not strictly necessary. If short on time, you can grill the chicken immediately after seasoning. However, marinating for at least 30 minutes is recommended for best results.
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).