Fiesta Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa
Ingredients:
For the Fiesta Lime Rub:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons lime juice (from about 1 lime)
– Zest from 1 lime
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon brown sugar
– 3/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4-1/2 teaspoon chipotle chili powder (optional for added heat)
– 1/4 teaspoon pepper
For the Avocado Salsa:
– 2 medium avocados, ripe but firm, diced
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, quartered, or 2 Roma tomatoes, seeded and chopped
– Kernels from 1 ear of sweet corn
– 1/3 cup finely chopped red onion
– 1/2 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 jalapeno pepper, diced (seeds removed if less heat is desired)
– 2 tablespoons finely chopped cilantro
– 1 garlic clove, minced, or 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/8 teaspoon pepper (or to taste)
For the Chicken:
– 1 pound chicken breasts, pounded to an even thickness
Directions:
1. In a small bowl, combine all Fiesta Lime Rub ingredients. Rub evenly over chicken breasts. Let marinate for 30 minutes at room temperature or refrigerate for up to 8 hours. If refrigerated, allow chicken to come to room temperature before cooking.
2. Stovetop Method: Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook for 3-5 minutes on each side until browned and cooked through. Cover and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, then let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
3. Grilling Method: Preheat grill to medium heat (375-450°F). Grill chicken for 5-7 minutes per side until cooked through. Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
4. For the Avocado Salsa: In a large bowl, combine all salsa ingredients except avocados. Chill for 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Before serving, gently fold in diced avocados. Adjust seasoning to taste.
5. Serve sliced Fiesta Lime Chicken with a generous spoonful of Avocado Salsa on top. Enjoy the vibrant flavors!
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 10-14 minutes | Total Time: 25-29 minutes + marinating time | Servings: 4
