Craving that vibrant, zesty flavor of Applebee's famous Lime Chicken? Forget takeout! This copycat recipe brings the restaurant experience right to your kitchen. It's incredibly easy to make, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, and bursting with fresh, delicious flavors. Get ready to impress your family with this healthy and homemade meal!
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup lime juice (about 2 limes)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (for garnish)
Instructions:
Get Started:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, honey, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. This is your delicious marinade!
Marinate the Chicken:
- Add the chicken breasts to the bowl and ensure they're fully coated in the marinade. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for maximum flavor. The longer it marinates, the more tender and flavorful your chicken will be.
Cook the Chicken:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). You can cook this chicken in several ways. For oven-baking: Place the marinated chicken breasts in a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Alternatively, you can pan-fry the chicken in a skillet over medium heat for about 6-8 minutes per side, until cooked through.
Serve and Enjoy:
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven or skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh cilantro and a lime wedge. Serve immediately with your favorite sides, such as rice, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad. This makes a fantastic healthy meal the whole family will love.
Tips for the Best Lime Chicken:
- Don't skip the marinade! It's key to the tender, flavorful chicken.
- Adjust the spice level: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce or omit the cayenne pepper.
- Use fresh ingredients: Freshly squeezed lime juice and herbs make a huge difference in the flavor.
- Check for doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked through to prevent foodborne illness.
Delicious Variations:
- Add some veggies: Toss some bell peppers and onions with the marinade and bake them alongside the chicken.
- Make it a sheet pan meal: Roast the chicken and your favorite vegetables on a single sheet pan for an easy cleanup.
- Serve with different sides: This dish pairs well with Mexican rice, quinoa, sweet potato fries, or a vibrant slaw.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Protein: Approximately 35-40g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 5-10g
This easy recipe is a fantastic addition to your quick dinner ideas repertoire. It's a delicious and healthy meal that’s sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy your homemade Applebee's-inspired Lime Chicken!