Chili Lime Chicken Strips

Why Make This Recipe

Chili Lime Chicken Strips are a fantastic choice for any meal. They are packed with flavor, easy to make, and perfect for a quick dinner or a fun weekend BBQ. The combination of zesty lime and spicy chili powder brings life to the chicken, making it juicy and delicious. Plus, they are versatile—great in wraps, bowls, or tacos!

How to Make Chili Lime Chicken Strips

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken tenders
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Juice and zest of 2 limes
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
• Lime wedges, for serving

Directions:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice and zest, garlic, chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, honey, salt, and pepper.
2. Add chicken tenders to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates.
4. Grill chicken strips for 3–4 minutes per side, or until charred and cooked through (internal temp of 165°F/74°C).
5. Remove from grill and rest for a few minutes.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges. Serve hot with dipping sauce or in wraps, bowls, or tacos.

How to Serve Chili Lime Chicken Strips

You can serve Chili Lime Chicken Strips in various ways. Enjoy them as is, with some fresh lime wedges on the side. They also pair well with a spicy dipping sauce. If you’re feeling creative, use them in wraps, taco recipes, or over a fresh salad or grain bowl.

How to Store Chili Lime Chicken Strips

To store leftovers, let the chicken strips cool completely. Place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. You can also freeze them for up to 2 months. Just make sure to thaw them in the fridge before reheating.

Tips to Make Chili Lime Chicken Strips

• For extra flavor, marinate the chicken for longer, up to 2 hours.
• If you like more heat, add extra chili powder or some diced jalapeños to the marinade.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked through and safe to eat.
• Don’t skip the resting time after grilling! This helps keep the chicken tender and juicy.

Variation

You can easily switch up the flavors! Try using lemon instead of lime, or add other herbs like oregano or paprika for a different taste. If you prefer a milder flavor, you might reduce the chili powder.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of chicken tenders?

   • Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but make sure to cut them into strips to keep cooking times similar.

2. Should I use fresh lime juice or bottled?

   • Fresh lime juice will give you the best flavor. Bottled juice can work in a pinch, but it might taste less vibrant.

3. Can I grill these chicken strips indoors?

   • Absolutely! You can use a grill pan on your stovetop. Just make sure to keep an eye on them to avoid burning.