Chile Lime Chicken Tacos: A Delicious and Healthy Meal Option

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Last updated on April 19th, 2023 at 11:06 am

If you’re looking for a delicious and healthy meal option, look no further than chile lime chicken tacos. This dish is perfect for those who want to enjoy a flavorful and filling meal without sacrificing health.

At its core, chile lime chicken tacos are made with marinated chicken, fresh vegetables, and various seasonings and spices. The chicken is usually marinated in lime juice, chili powder, cumin, and garlic, giving it a tangy and slightly spicy flavor.

Chile Lime Chicken Tacos

Meg

This chile lime chicken tacos recipe is a simple and flavorful meal that can be made in just a few easy steps. Marinated in a blend of spices and lime juice, the chicken is cooked until tender and juicy, then served in warm tortillas with a variety of toppings. This recipe is perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner, and can easily be customized to suit your tastes.

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Prep Time 20

Cook Time 20

Course Main Course

Cuisine Mexican

Servings 6

Calories 400 kcal

Equipment

Cutting board
Chef's knife
Large mixing bowl

Measuring spoons
Skillet or frying pan
Spatula

Meat thermometer
Microwave or stove top to warm tortillas
Serving platter or plates

Outdoor grill (if you prefer to grill the chicken) (Optional)

Ingredients

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into thin strips
2 tbsp olive oil

2 tbsp chili powder
1 tbsp cumin
1 tsp garlic powder

1/2 tsp salt
Juice of 2 limes
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

Corn or flour tortillas
Toppings (Optional): diced avocado, sliced jalapeños, diced red onion, crumbled queso fresco, chopped fresh cilantro, lime wedges

Instructions

In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and salt. Stir until well combined.

Add the sliced chicken to the bowl and toss to coat the chicken in the spice mixture.
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and nicely browned.
Once the chicken is cooked, remove the skillet from the heat and add the lime juice and chopped cilantro to the skillet. Stir well to combine.

Warm up your tortillas in the microwave or on the stovetop, following the instructions on the package.
To assemble your tacos, place a few strips of the chile lime chicken in the center of each tortilla. Add your desired toppings, such as diced avocado, sliced jalapeños, diced red onion, crumbled queso fresco, chopped fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of fresh lime juice.
Serve immediately and enjoy!

Video

Notes

Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but preferably for a few hours, to allow the flavors to develop.
Adjust the amount of spice according to your personal preferences. If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of chili powder or cayenne pepper.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Warm the tortillas before serving to make them more pliable and enjoyable to eat.
Customize the toppings to your liking. Some popular options include diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, avocado, salsa, and sour cream.
If grilling the chicken, preheat the grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.

If using a skillet, use a large one to avoid overcrowding the chicken and allow it to cook evenly.
Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
This recipe can be easily doubled or halved to suit your needs.

Have fun and experiment with different flavor combinations to make this recipe your own!

Keyword Chile Lime Chicken Tacos

Health Benefits

In addition to being delicious, chile lime chicken tacos are also a healthy meal option. Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, which can help you feel full and satisfied for extended periods. The fresh vegetables used in this dish are also packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber, which can help support overall health and well-being.

Tips:

When preparing chile lime chicken tacos, remember a few tips. First, use high-quality chicken free from antibiotics and hormones, ensuring you get the best possible flavor and nutrition from your meal.

Second, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes before cooking; this will help infuse the chicken with flavor and ensure it stays moist and tender during cooking.

Finally, be creative with your toppings and garnishes. Add a dollop of Greek yogurt, some fresh cilantro, or a sprinkle of cotija cheese for extra flavor and texture.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts for this recipe?

Yes, you can use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly since chicken thighs may take slightly longer to cook through.

Can I use a different type of citrus juice instead of lime juice?

Yes, you can use a different type of citrus juice, such as lemon or orange juice, if you prefer.

How spicy are these tacos?

The level of spiciness depends on the amount of chili powder you use. You can reduce the chili powder or use mild chili powder instead if you prefer less heat.

Can I make the chicken ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the chicken ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, reheat the chicken in a skillet over medium heat until heated.

Can I use store-bought taco seasoning instead of making my spice blend?

Yes, you can use store-bought taco seasoning if you prefer.

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

You can use frozen chicken, but you must thaw it before cooking. Allow the chicken to thaw completely in the refrigerator before slicing and cooking.

How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

The internal temperature of cooked chicken should be 165°F. You can use a meat thermometer to check the temperature of the chicken.

Can I use a different type of tortilla, such as whole wheat or gluten-free?

Yes, you can use a different type of tortilla if you prefer. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time if needed.

Can I add additional toppings to these tacos?

Add toppings you like, such as diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, or salsa.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?

You can make this recipe vegetarian or vegan by using tofu or plant-based protein instead of the chicken, omitting the queso fresco, or using a vegan cheese alternative.

Final Thought On Chile Lime Chicken Tacos

Overall, chile lime chicken tacos are a delicious, healthy meal option that’s easy to prepare and highly customizable. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a crowd, this dish will surely be a hit.

So why not give it a try today?