Get ready to transform your ordinary dinner into a culinary adventure that will make your taste buds dance! This Chili Lime Beer Chicken is not just a recipe—it's a flavor-packed journey that combines the zesty punch of lime, the warmth of chili, and the unexpected depth of beer-infused chicken. Perfect for those who crave bold, exciting meals that are surprisingly easy to prepare, this Mexican-inspired dish will become your new go-to recipe for impressing friends and family.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1 cup beer
- 2 limes, juiced
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all the ingredients: 4 chicken breasts, 1 cup of beer, the juice of 2 limes, 2 tablespoons of chili powder, 1 teaspoon of cumin, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, and salt and pepper to taste.
- In a medium-sized bowl, combine the beer, lime juice, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk the mixture until all the ingredients are well blended.
- Place the chicken breasts in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring that each piece is well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor.
- Preheat your grill or a grill pan over medium-high heat. If using a grill, make sure the grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.
- Once the grill is hot, remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing any excess marinade to drip off. Discard the remaining marinade.
- Place the chicken breasts on the grill. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on one side without moving them, allowing the grill marks to form.
- Flip the chicken breasts and cook for an additional 6-7 minutes on the other side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the chicken is cooked through.
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken moist.
- Slice the chicken and serve it with lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of flavor. This dish pairs well with rice, beans, or a fresh salad.
Tips
- Marinating Magic: Don't rush the marinating process. While 30 minutes works, letting the chicken sit for up to 2 hours allows the flavors to penetrate deeply.
- Temperature is Key: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) for perfect doneness without drying out.
- Beer Selection: Choose a light, crisp beer like a lager or pilsner that won't overpower the other flavors.
- Grill Technique: Let the chicken sit undisturbed for those beautiful grill marks, and avoid moving it too much during cooking.
- Resting Matters: Always let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after grilling to keep it juicy and tender.
- Serve with Flair: Garnish with fresh lime wedges and consider pairing with cilantro-lime rice or a fresh summer salad for a complete meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 5g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 95mg
