Fiesta Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa

Quick Benefits

Fiesta Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa is a vibrant, flavor-packed dish that brings a burst of zesty, smoky, and creamy goodness to your table. It’s protein-rich, loaded with fresh veggies, and naturally gluten-free. Perfect for a healthy, satisfying weeknight dinner or weekend BBQ with friends!

Essential Ingredients

For the Chicken:

  • 1 lb chicken breasts (pounded evenly)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp lime juice + zest from 1 lime
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp brown sugar
  • ¾ tsp salt
  • ½ tsp each: cumin, smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder
  • ¼–½ tsp chipotle chili powder (optional for heat)
  • ¼ tsp pepper

For the Avocado Salsa:

  • 2 ripe avocados, chopped
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes (quartered) or 2 Roma tomatoes, chopped
  • 1 ear sweet corn (fresh, kernels only)
  • ⅓ cup finely chopped red onion
  • ½ red bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 jalapeño, diced (seeds optional)
  • 2 tbsp chopped cilantro
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 2 tbsp lime juice
  • ¼ tsp each: ground cumin, salt
  • ⅛ tsp black pepper

Preparation Steps

  1. Marinate Chicken
    Mix all spices and lime juice with olive oil. Rub over chicken. Let it sit for 30 mins (room temp) or refrigerate for up to 8 hours.
  2. Cook Chicken
    • Stovetop: Sear chicken 3–5 minutes on each side, reduce heat, cover, and cook until done (internal temp 165°F).
    • Grill: Grill at 375–450°F for 5–7 minutes per side.
  3. Prepare Salsa
    In a bowl, mix all salsa ingredients except avocado. Chill for 30 minutes (up to 24 hours). Fold in avocado just before serving.
  4. Serve
    Slice chicken, top with fresh avocado salsa, and enjoy!

Health Benefits

  • High Protein: Lean chicken keeps you full and energized.
  • Healthy Fats: Avocados are rich in heart-healthy monounsaturated fats.
  • Antioxidants: Tomatoes, lime, and peppers provide vitamins A, C, and lycopene.
  • Low Carb: A great option for those watching their carbs or following a whole-food diet.

Serving Suggestions

  • Over a bed of cilantro lime rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice.
  • In warm tortillas as tacos.
  • Paired with grilled veggies or a light cabbage slaw.
  • With nachos or chips on the side for dipping the salsa.

Creative Variations

  • Swap chicken for shrimp or grilled tofu.
  • Add black beans to the salsa for a fiber boost.
  • Mix in mango or pineapple chunks for a sweet-tangy twist.
  • Use Greek yogurt or a drizzle of chipotle crema as a creamy topping.

Storage Tips

  • Chicken: Store cooked chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge.
  • Salsa: Best enjoyed fresh; if stored, keep in the fridge for 1 day and stir gently before serving. Add avocado just before eating to prevent browning.

Pro Tips

  • Use ripe but firm avocados to avoid mushy salsa.
  • A cast iron skillet gives the best sear on stovetop.
  • Make the salsa ahead and add avocado right before serving for max freshness.
  • Always rest the chicken before slicing—it keeps it juicy!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes! Marinate the chicken and prep the salsa (without avocado) up to a day in advance.

Q: Can I use store-bought salsa?
A: You can, but the homemade version is fresher and more flavorful. Just add chopped avocado if you’re in a pinch.

Q: Is this dish spicy?
A: It has a mild kick from jalapeño and chipotle. Adjust the heat by controlling the amount of chili powder and jalapeño seeds.

Q: Can I freeze the chicken?
A: Yes, cooked chicken freezes well for up to 2 months. Reheat gently to maintain texture.

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