Grilled Jalapeño-Lime Chicken

Jalapeño-Lime Chicken Recipe from Mexico | Olive Oil, Lime Peel, Cumin and More

Region / culture: Mexico | Preparation time: 40 minutes | Cooking time: 15 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Grilled Jalapeño-Lime Chicken is a flavorful and zesty dish that is perfect for a summer barbecue or a quick weeknight meal. The combination of spicy jalapeño, tangy lime, and savory cumin creates a delicious marinade for the chicken, which is then grilled to perfection.

History

This recipe draws inspiration from traditional Mexican flavors, where lime, jalapeño, and cumin are commonly used to season meats. Grilling the chicken adds a smoky char that enhances the overall flavor profile of the dish.

Ingredients

1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp grated lime peel
1 tbsp fresh lime juice
1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and diced
1 tsp ground cumin
3 cloves garlic, minced
0.25 tsp salt
0.25 tsp ground black pepper
1 lb (454 g) boneless and skinless chicken breast halves
non-fat cooking spray

How to prepare

Prepare the grill.
In a large resealable plastic bag, combine the oil, lime peel, lime juice, jalapeño pepper, cumin, garlic, salt, and pepper.
Place the chicken in the bag. Squeeze out excess air, then seal tightly. Turn the bag to coat the chicken on all sides, then chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to marinate.
Remove the chicken and discard the bag with the marinade.
Place the chicken on the grill for 12–15 minutes or until cooked through and the internal temperature in the thickest part of the chicken is at least 165°F (74°C), then serve immediately.

Variations

For a vegetarian option, substitute the chicken with tofu or portobello mushrooms.
Add diced pineapple or mango to the marinade for a tropical twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to properly marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.

- Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

- For extra heat, leave the seeds in the jalapeño pepper. For a milder flavor, remove the seeds before dicing.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Grilled Jalapeño-Lime Chicken with a side of Mexican rice, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad.

Cooking Techniques

Grilling

Ingredient Substitutions

Substitute chicken thighs or drumsticks for the chicken breasts.

- Use lemon juice instead of lime juice.

Make Ahead Tips

Marinate the chicken overnight for even more flavor.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the Grilled Jalapeño-Lime Chicken with fresh cilantro and lime wedges for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this dish with a cold beer, a margarita, or a glass of crisp white wine.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the grill until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

170 per serving

Carbohydrates

2g per serving

Fats

5g per serving

Proteins

25g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin B6, and niacin.

Alergens

This recipe contains no common allergens such as nuts, dairy, or gluten.

Summary

This Grilled Jalapeño-Lime Chicken is a low-calorie, high-protein dish that is packed with flavor and nutrients.

Summary

Grilled Jalapeño-Lime Chicken is a delicious and healthy dish that is perfect for any occasion. With its bold flavors and simple preparation, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time is still fresh in my mind. It was a warm summer afternoon, and I had just come back from a visit to the local farmer's market. I had picked up some fresh jalapeños and limes and was looking for a new recipe to try out. As I was flipping through an old cookbook that had been passed down to me from my own grandmother, I stumbled upon a recipe for Grilled Jalapeño-Lime Chicken.

The recipe was handwritten on a yellowed piece of paper, and it seemed to be a combination of different influences. The marinade called for a mix of bold flavors like garlic, cumin, and cilantro, which reminded me of the Mexican dishes I used to enjoy as a young girl. The addition of lime juice and zest gave it a refreshing twist, adding a touch of brightness to the dish. And of course, the jalapeños added a spicy kick that I knew would be just perfect for a summer barbecue.

I decided to give the recipe a try that very evening. I gathered all the ingredients I needed and got to work in the kitchen. I carefully chopped up the jalapeños, minced the garlic, and zested the limes, taking in all the vibrant colors and fragrances that filled the room. As I mixed together the marinade and coated the chicken in it, I could already tell that this dish was going to be something special.

Once the chicken had marinated for a few hours, I fired up the grill and carefully placed each piece on the hot grates. The sizzle and aroma that filled the air reminded me of summers spent with my own grandmother, cooking up delicious meals in her backyard. As I watched the chicken cook and develop those beautiful charred grill marks, I felt a sense of pride and excitement building within me.

When the chicken was finally done and I plated it up, I couldn't wait to dig in. The first bite was a burst of flavors and textures that danced on my taste buds. The tender chicken was perfectly complemented by the zesty lime and spicy jalapeño, creating a harmonious balance that made my mouth water with every bite. I knew right then and there that this recipe was a keeper.

Over the years, I have made this Grilled Jalapeño-Lime Chicken countless times, each time tweaking the recipe ever so slightly to suit my taste. Sometimes I add a bit more garlic for an extra kick, or maybe a touch of honey to balance out the spice. I've even experimented with different types of peppers, like habaneros or poblanos, to change things up and keep the dish exciting.

But no matter how many times I make it, this recipe will always hold a special place in my heart. It's a reminder of the joy and satisfaction that comes from creating something delicious with your own two hands, and of the memories and traditions that are passed down through generations. Cooking has always been a way for me to connect with my loved ones, and this recipe is a testament to that.

So the next time you find yourself at a farmer's market, or flipping through an old cookbook, keep an eye out for those hidden gems like the Grilled Jalapeño-Lime Chicken. You never know what delicious surprises you might stumble upon, and the memories you create in the kitchen will stay with you for a lifetime.