If you’re craving something fresh, bold, and bursting with flavor, this Fiesta Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa is a must-try! This zesty grilled chicken dish is marinated in a tangy lime and spice blend, then grilled to juicy perfection and topped with a chunky avocado salsa that adds creamy, cooling contrast.
It’s perfect for summer BBQs, taco night, meal prep, or healthy weeknight dinners. With simple ingredients and vibrant flavor, this dish delivers restaurant-quality results right from your kitchen.
Ingredients:
For the Chicken Marinade:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 teaspoon lime zest
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro (optional)
For the Avocado Salsa:
- 2 ripe avocados, diced
- 1 medium tomato, diced
- ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1 small jalapeño, minced (for heat)
Preparation:
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, zest, and spices. Place chicken breasts in a large zip-top bag or bowl and pour marinade over. Toss to coat. Seal and refrigerate for 30 minutes to 4 hours for best flavor.
Step 2: Prepare the Avocado Salsa
- While the chicken marinates, combine diced avocado, tomato, red onion, cilantro, and lime juice in a bowl. Season with salt and pepper. For extra kick, add minced jalapeño. Cover and refrigerate until ready to use.
Step 3: Grill the Chicken
- Preheat grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade and grill for 5–7 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Let rest for 5 minutes.
Step 4: Assemble the Dish
- Place grilled chicken on plates or a serving platter. Top each piece with a generous spoonful of the avocado salsa. Garnish with extra cilantro or lime wedges, if desired.
Variation:
- Cheesy Fiesta Chicken: Add shredded pepper jack or Mexican blend cheese on top during the last minute of grilling
- Creamy Option: Mix avocado salsa with a spoonful of sour cream or Greek yogurt
- Spicy Version: Add chipotle powder or hot sauce to the marinade
- Tex-Mex Bowl: Serve sliced chicken over rice or quinoa with salsa, black beans, and corn
- Air Fryer Version: Cook chicken at 375°F for 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway
COOKING Note:
Letting the chicken rest after grilling helps seal in the juices. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it’s cooked through but not overdone.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with Spanish rice or Mexican corn salad
- Slice and tuck into tacos, burritos, or quesadillas
- Pair with tortilla chips and salsa or guacamole
- Serve over a bed of greens for a protein-packed salad
- Great with grilled veggies, black beans, or roasted potatoes
Tips:
- Use fresh lime juice for best flavor
- Don’t over-marinate—acidic lime juice can toughen the chicken
- Use chicken thighs for extra juiciness if preferred
- Double the salsa recipe for topping bowls, nachos, or dipping
- Store leftover chicken and salsa separately in the fridge
⏱️ Time Overview:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Marinate Time: 30 minutes to 4 hours
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: ~1 hour (including marinade)
🍽️ Nutritional Information (Per Serving – 4 servings):
- Calories: ~320
- Protein: ~28g
- Carbohydrates: ~10g
- Fat: ~18g
- Sugar: ~2g
- Fiber: ~5g
- Sodium: ~400mg
Nutrition may vary depending on toppings and portion size.
❓FAQs
Can I bake the chicken instead of grilling?
- Yes! Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes or until fully cooked.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
- Yes, you can marinate the chicken and prep the salsa separately, then grill when ready. Salsa is best served fresh.
Can I use bottled lime juice?
- Fresh lime juice is recommended, but bottled can work in a pinch.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
- Yes, it’s naturally gluten-free as written.
How can I meal prep this dish?
- Cook the chicken, slice it, and store with rice or salad in containers. Add fresh avocado salsa just before serving.
Conclusion:
Fiesta Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa is everything you want in a fresh, healthy, and satisfying meal—zesty marinade, juicy grilled chicken, and creamy avocado salsa. It’s light yet filling, packed with protein and flavor, and comes together with minimal fuss.
Whether you’re grilling on the weekend or need a vibrant weekday dinner, this dish brings sunshine and spice to your table.