This Lime Green Chili Chicken is a zesty delight! Juicy chicken pieces are coated in a vibrant green chili sauce with a zing of lime. It’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor!
Trust me, once you take a bite, you’ll love the spicy kick and bright lime taste! I like it best served with rice—it’s the perfect combo! 🍚
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this dish, but thighs add a nice richness. If you’re looking for a leaner option, consider using turkey or tofu for a vegetarian twist.
Green Chilies: Adjust the heat by using fewer chilies or by replacing them with milder varieties like jalapeños. If you can’t find green chilies, diced green bell peppers work as a great substitute!
Onion: Yellow onions provide a nice sweetness when cooked. You could swap them for shallots or red onions if you prefer. Both bring a slightly different flavor but work well in this recipe.
Spices: Cumin and coriander are essential for depth of flavor. If you’re low on these, you might try taco seasoning or curry powder for a different but tasty kick.
How Do I Get My Chicken Perfectly Cooked and Flavorful?
Cooking chicken just right can be tricky, but following a few simple steps can help! First, don’t skip patting the chicken dry before seasoning. This ensures better browning. Here’s how to do it:
- Heat the skillet well before adding the chicken; this gives it that lovely golden crust.
- Always let the chicken rest for a few minutes after searing to keep it juicy.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness—165°F (75°C) is your safe zone!
Lastly, spoon the sauce over the chicken as it cooks to infuse all that lime and spice flavor. This simple technique makes all the difference in taste.
How to Make Lime Green Chili Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3-4 green chilies, finely chopped (adjust to taste)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 cup chicken broth or stock
- Juice of 2 limes
- Zest of 1 lime
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime slices (for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon capers (optional, for tanginess)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and another 20 minutes cooking everything to perfection. It’s quick, easy, and oh-so-flavorful!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps them brown nicely. Then, season both sides with salt, pepper, ground cumin, ground coriander, turmeric, and smoked paprika. Mix it up and make sure they are evenly coated.
2. Sear the Chicken:
Heat up the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Sear them for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown. Don’t worry if they’re not fully cooked yet; we’ll finish cooking them later. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Cook the Aromatics:
In the same skillet, toss in the chopped onion, green chilies, garlic, and ginger. Sauté everything for about 5 minutes until the onions are soft and see-through. This is where the flavors start to build!
4. Make the Sauce:
Pour in the chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits stuck to the pan; that’s flavor! Stir in the lime juice, lime zest, and capers (if you choose to use them). Let this simmer for about 2-3 minutes so the flavors meld together.
5. Finish Cooking the Chicken:
Now, return the chicken to the skillet. Reduce the heat to medium-low and cook for another 8-10 minutes. Spoon the sauce over the chicken as it cooks to keep it moist and flavorful. Cook it until the chicken is fully cooked through and tender. You can check with a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (75°C).
6. Taste and Adjust:
Give the sauce a taste! You can add more salt, pepper, or lime juice depending on your preference. Adjust it to your liking!
7. Garnish and Serve:
Arrange the chicken on a serving plate, then pour that delicious sauce over it. Garnish your dish with fresh chopped cilantro and lime slices for a pop of color and extra flavor. Serve it hot with steamed rice or flatbread for a complete meal!
Enjoy your vibrant and tangy Lime Green Chili Chicken!
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Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s best to thaw it completely first. Thaw frozen chicken overnight in the fridge or submerge it in a sealed plastic bag in cold water for quicker thawing. Pat it dry before seasoning for the best results.
How Spicy Is This Dish?
The spice level depends on the type and quantity of green chilies used. For a milder dish, use fewer chilies or substitute them with diced bell peppers. You can always taste as you go to adjust the heat to your liking!
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can substitute the chicken with firm tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian version. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed, as these ingredients will cook faster than chicken.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to help maintain moisture and avoid drying out the chicken.
