Craving a vibrant, flavorful dinner that’s ready in under 30 minutes? Look no further! This Chilli and Lime Chicken recipe is a burst of sunshine on your plate, perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a casual weekend gathering. It's a delicious and healthy dish that’s surprisingly easy to make, proving that homemade cooking doesn't have to be complicated. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with this simple yet extraordinary recipe!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup lime juice (about 1 large lime)
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tbsp cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro, for garnish
- Lime wedges, for serving (optional)
- Cooked rice or quinoa, for serving
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Prepare your ingredients by slicing the bell pepper and red onion, mincing the garlic, and measuring out the spices. Having everything ready beforehand makes the cooking process much smoother.
Marinate the Chicken (Optional but Recommended):
- In a medium bowl, combine the chicken pieces with 1 tablespoon of lime juice, 1 tablespoon of chili powder, and half of the cumin. Gently toss to coat the chicken evenly. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes (or longer for a more intense flavor). This step adds a depth of flavor that truly elevates the dish.
Cook the Chicken and Vegetables:
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Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
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Add the bell pepper and red onion to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes, until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Create the Flavorful Sauce:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining lime juice, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper.
Combine and Serve:
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Return the chicken to the skillet. Pour the spice mixture over the chicken and vegetables, stirring to combine everything thoroughly. Simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
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Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve immediately over cooked rice or quinoa. A squeeze of fresh lime juice adds a final touch of zing!
Tips and Variations:
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to control the heat level. For a milder dish, omit it altogether.
- Protein Swap: Feel free to substitute the chicken with shrimp, tofu, or even firm fish for a variation on this delicious recipe.
- Vegetable Boost: Add other vegetables like zucchini, corn, or mushrooms for a more substantial meal.
- Make it a Sheet Pan Meal: For an even easier cleanup, roast the chicken and vegetables on a sheet pan in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe provides a healthy and balanced meal, packed with protein and essential nutrients. The exact nutritional values depend on the specific ingredients used and serving size. However, a general estimate per serving is approximately:
- Calories: 350-400
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
This Chilli and Lime Chicken recipe is a perfect example of a quick, easy, and healthy meal that’s packed with flavor. It's a great addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas, and a surefire way to impress your family and friends with your homemade cooking skills. Enjoy!