Fiesta Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa

This Fiesta Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa is one of my favorite recipes when I’m craving something fresh, bold, and full of flavor. The chicken is perfectly seasoned with a zesty lime rub and grilled to juicy perfection, then topped with a refreshing avocado salsa that brings everything together. It’s a colorful, satisfying dish that’s perfect for warm evenings, family dinners, or weekend cookouts.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s easy to make, healthy, and bursting with flavor. The lime rub gives the chicken a vibrant kick, while the avocado salsa adds creaminess and brightness. It’s naturally gluten-free, packed with protein and healthy fats, and doesn’t require any complicated steps. Plus, it looks beautiful on the plate and tastes even better.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Chicken:

• 1 pound chicken breasts, pounded to even thickness

For the Fiesta Lime Rub:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Zest of 1 lime
• Juice of 1 lime
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Avocado Salsa:

• 1 ripe avocado, diced
• 1 small tomato, diced
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped
• Juice of 1/2 lime
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions

1. I start by mixing all the ingredients for the Fiesta Lime Rub in a small bowl.
2. I rub the seasoning mixture all over the chicken breasts, coating them evenly. Then I let them marinate for at least 20 minutes (or up to 2 hours) in the fridge.
3. While the chicken marinates, I prepare the avocado salsa by gently mixing the diced avocado, tomato, red onion, cilantro, lime juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper. I set it aside.
4. I grill the chicken over medium-high heat for about 5–6 minutes per side, or until it’s cooked through and has nice grill marks.
5. Once done, I let the chicken rest for a few minutes, then I top each piece with a generous spoonful of the avocado salsa before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 2–3 servings, depending on portion size. It takes around 30–40 minutes total—20 minutes to marinate and about 15–20 minutes to cook and assemble.

Variations

• I sometimes add diced mango or pineapple to the avocado salsa for a sweet twist.
• If I don’t have a grill, I cook the chicken in a cast-iron skillet or bake it in the oven at 400°F for 20–25 minutes.
• For a spicy kick, I toss in a chopped jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce.
• I’ve served this over rice, quinoa, or even in lettuce wraps for a low-carb option.
• A sprinkle of cotija or feta cheese on top adds a creamy, salty finish.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The avocado salsa is best fresh, but I sometimes keep it tightly covered (with plastic wrap touching the surface) for a day. To reheat the chicken, I warm it gently in a skillet or microwave until heated through, then top it with fresh salsa.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, I love using boneless, skinless thighs—they’re juicy and flavorful. Just adjust the cooking time slightly since they’re usually thicker.

What if I don’t have a grill?

No problem. I cook the chicken in a hot skillet on the stove or bake it in the oven at 400°F until it reaches 165°F internally.

Can I make the salsa ahead of time?

I usually prepare it right before serving to keep the avocado fresh. If I make it early, I store it tightly covered with plastic wrap to prevent browning.

What sides go well with this dish?

I like serving it with rice, black beans, grilled corn, or a simple green salad. It’s also great wrapped in tortillas for a taco-style meal.

How do I know when the chicken is done?

I check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F using a meat thermometer. The juices should run clear, and the meat should be firm but not dry.

Conclusion

Fiesta Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa is one of those vibrant, flavorful meals that always hits the spot. I love how quick and customizable it is, and the combination of juicy, seasoned chicken with fresh salsa never gets old. Whether I’m grilling for a summer dinner or meal-prepping for the week, this dish always brings bold, refreshing flavor to the table.

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