This lively Fiesta Lime Chicken is filled with delicious flavor! Juicy chicken is topped with zesty lime, fresh pico de gallo, and a sprinkle of cheese. It’s a treat for your taste buds!
You can whip this up in no time, and it’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a fun gathering. I love serving it with tortilla chips on the side for a delightful crunch!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe. If you’re looking for a substitute, you could use chicken thighs for a juicier option. Marinated tofu is a great plant-based alternative!
Spices: The chili powder and paprika give a nice warmth and color. If you want a bit more heat, consider adding cayenne pepper or using a spicy taco seasoning. For a milder flavor, skip the chili powder entirely.
Pico de Gallo: You can buy pre-made pico de gallo or make your own with diced tomatoes, onions, jalapeños, cilantro, and lime juice. If jalapeños aren’t your thing, replace them with bell peppers for a sweeter touch.
Cheese: Monterey Jack and Colby Jack are both great choices for melting. If you need a dairy-free option, go for a vegan cheese that melts well or use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
How Do You Get Juicy Chicken Every Time?
Getting perfectly juicy chicken starts with proper cooking. Make sure to season well and cook on moderate heat. Here’s how:
- Preheat your oven for even cooking.
- Cook until the internal temperature is 165°F (74°C); this ensures it’s done without being dry.
- Let it rest for a few minutes after taking it out of the oven. It helps the juices redistribute.
Following these tips will help your chicken stay moist and flavorful, just like at the restaurant!
Easy Applebee’s Fiesta Lime Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 lime (zested and juiced)
- 1 cup pico de gallo (fresh chopped tomatoes, onion, cilantro, and jalapeño with lime juice)
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack or Colby Jack cheese
- Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Fiesta Lime Chicken recipe takes approximately 30 minutes in total—about 10 minutes for prep and 20-25 minutes for cooking. It’s quick, easy, and packed with vibrant flavors that will satisfy your cravings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures your chicken will cook evenly and come out perfectly juicy.
2. Prepare the Spice Mix:
In a small bowl, mix together the salt, pepper, chili powder, paprika, and garlic powder. This will create a flavorful spice blend that you’ll rub onto the chicken.
3. Season the Chicken:
Take the chicken breasts and rub them with olive oil. Then, evenly coat each breast with the spice mixture, making sure to cover every side for the best flavor.
4. Bake the Chicken:
Place the seasoned chicken breasts onto a baking sheet or in an oven-safe skillet. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
5. Add Lime and Toppings:
Once the chicken is ready, remove it from the oven and sprinkle the lime zest and juice over the top. This adds a fresh, zesty kick!
6. Top with Pico de Gallo and Cheese:
Next, add a generous amount of pico de gallo onto each chicken breast, followed by a handful of shredded cheese. The cheese will melt beautifully as it bakes.
7. Bake Again:
Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking!
8. Garnish and Serve:
Once done, garnish with fresh chopped cilantro if you’d like. Serve your vibrant Fiesta Lime Chicken immediately and enjoy the wonderful flavors!
Bon appétit! Enjoy this tangy, cheesy dish just like you would at Applebee’s!
FAQ for Easy Applebee’s Fiesta Lime Chicken
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts! Just be sure to thaw them completely before seasoning and baking. Thawing overnight in the refrigerator works best, or you can place them in a sealed bag and submerge in cold water for quicker thawing.
What If I Don’t Have Pico de Gallo?
No problem! If you don’t have pico de gallo, you can use fresh diced tomatoes and onions combined with a bit of chopped cilantro and jalapeño. A squeeze of lime juice will help mimic the flavors as well!
Can I Prepare This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can season the chicken and prepare the toppings in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, just bake the chicken and add the toppings just before serving!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm gently in the microwave or oven, adding a splash of lime juice to freshen up the flavors if needed.
