Zesty Fiesta Lime Chicken Avocado Bowl

Indulge in a burst of flavors with our Fiesta Lime Chicken Avocado recipe! This dish marries tangy lime-infused chicken with a smoky undertone, perfectly complemented by a vibrant avocado salsa that will leave your taste buds dancing. Whether you’re looking for a refreshing weeknight dinner or a dish to elevate your summer gatherings, this recipe is a true crowd-pleaser.

The zesty combination of lime and smoked paprika in the marinade creates a symphony of flavors that will surprise and delight your palate. The addition of creamy avocados, juicy tomatoes, and fresh cilantro in the salsa adds a pop of color and freshness to each bite. Don’t be surprised if your friends start begging for this recipe after just one taste – it’s that good!

This Fiesta Lime Chicken Avocado is not only a feast for the senses but also a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether served with cilantro lime rice, warm tortillas, or nestled in lettuce wraps, this recipe is sure to add a touch of fiesta to your table. So, fire up the grill, whip up a batch of this flavorful chicken, and get ready to savor the taste of summer in every bite!

Quick Benefits

• Bursting with bold colors and fresh flavors, perfect for summer
• Versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a weeknight dinner or at summer gatherings
• Easy to make with simple steps and readily available ingredients
• Can be prepped ahead and leftovers can be used in wraps, salads, or bowls for quick meals

Why You’ll Love This Zesty Fiesta Lime Chicken Avocado Bowl Recipe

• Vibrant Flavors: The tangy lime, smoky paprika, and fresh salsa create a burst of bold and refreshing flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.
• Easy Weeknight Meal: A simple recipe that is perfect for busy weeknights but impressive enough to serve at any summer party.
• Versatile: You can enjoy the chicken with cilantro lime rice, warm tortillas, in grain bowls, or even lettuce wraps, making it a versatile dish for various occasions.
• Colorful Presentation: The vibrant colors of the avocado salsa and the marinated chicken make for an eye-catching and appetizing dish.
• Make-Ahead Option: The chicken and salsa can be prepared in advance, allowing you to have a delicious meal ready to go whenever you need it.
• Family Favorite: Loved by both adults and kids, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your household.
• Mexican and Southwest Influences: Combining traditional Mexican and Southwest flavors, this dish brings a taste of summer gatherings and outdoor dinners to your table.
• Leftover Ideas: Use any leftover salsa with black beans for a quick lunch or enjoy the chicken cold in wraps or salads the next day.
• Customizable: Easily adapt the recipe to suit your preferences by swapping ingredients like chicken thighs for breasts, or cilantro for parsley, making it perfect for picky eaters.

Ingredients for Zesty Fiesta Lime Chicken Avocado Bowl

Chicken Preparation

• 0.5 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 tablespoon grated lime zest
• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
• 0.5 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 0.25 teaspoon garlic powder
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 0.25 teaspoon onion powder
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt, to taste
• 1 teaspoon chili powder

Avocado Salsa

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
• Salt, to taste
• 0.5 red onion, finely chopped
• 0.25 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 0.5 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped (optional)
• 250 grams cherry tomatoes, halved
• 2 ripe avocados, diced

Pro Tips for Zesty Fiesta Lime Chicken Avocado Bowl

For the best flavor, make sure to marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but if you have time, let it marinate for up to 4 hours to allow the spices and lime to fully infuse into the meat. This will enhance the tangy lime flavor and smokiness in the dish.

Consider using boneless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts for a slightly richer texture. Just remember to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as thighs may need a few more minutes on the grill to cook through properly.

If you’re not a fan of cilantro, you can easily swap it out for flat-leaf parsley which offers a fresh and slightly peppery alternative. This will still provide a lovely herbaceous note to the dish without the distinctive taste of cilantro.

To keep the avocado salsa looking fresh and vibrant, add lime juice to it right before serving. This will help slow down browning and ensure the salsa maintains its beautiful color and texture. Serve the Fiesta Lime Chicken Avocado with rice, quinoa, warm tortillas, or a side salad to complement the bold and fresh flavors of the dish.

How to Make Zesty Fiesta Lime Chicken Avocado Bowl

Step 1: Prepare Marinade

In a large bowl, combine olive oil, lime juice, lime zest, chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Add chicken, coat well, cover, and refrigerate for 30 minutes to 4 hours.

Step 2: Roast Chicken

1. Preheat oven to 200°C and lightly oil a baking dish.
2. Transfer marinated chicken to the dish, discarding excess marinade.
3. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 74°C.

Step 3: Prepare Avocado Salsa

Combine diced avocado, cherry tomatoes, red onion, jalapeño, and cilantro in a mixing bowl. In a separate bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Drizzle dressing over salsa ingredients, toss gently to combine.

Step 4: Rest and Serve

Let the roasted chicken rest briefly, then slice and place on serving plates. Top with avocado salsa and serve promptly.

Storage Tips

To store Fiesta Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa, allow the chicken to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. The chicken can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days. For the avocado salsa, it is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, press plastic wrap directly onto the surface before sealing to slow down browning. The salsa can be used cold in wraps or salads or gently reheated in a covered dish to retain its moisture.

For longer storage, consider freezing the cooked chicken without the avocado salsa. Place the cooled chicken in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing. Frozen chicken can be kept for up to 2-3 months. Thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight before reheating it gently on the stove or in the microwave. Prepare fresh avocado salsa to enjoy with the reheated chicken for the best flavor and texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you prefer a different protein, boneless chicken thighs are a great substitute for chicken breasts and offer a juicier texture. Just remember to adjust the cooking time accordingly as thighs may need a few extra minutes to cook through fully.

If you are not a fan of cilantro, flat-leaf parsley can be used as a substitute for a fresh, slightly peppery flavor that will still complement the dish well. This swap allows you to enjoy the green herbaceous element without the distinctive taste of cilantro.

To maintain the vibrant color and freshness of the avocado salsa, it’s best to prepare it right before serving. The lime juice in the salsa helps slow down browning, ensuring that your salsa looks as appetizing as it tastes. Enjoy the salsa fresh for the best texture and appearance alongside the flavorful chicken dish.

Serving Suggestions

For a fun and colorful presentation, serve the Fiesta Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa on a large platter over a bed of vibrant cilantro lime rice. Garnish with additional lime wedges and cilantro leaves for a fresh pop of flavor. You can also offer warm corn tortillas on the side for guests to create their own delicious tacos or wraps.

To elevate the dish further, consider adding a side of black bean and corn salad tossed with a zesty lime vinaigrette. The combination of textures and flavors will complement the tangy chicken and creamy avocado salsa perfectly. Don’t forget to top off the meal with a refreshing margarita or a cold Mexican beer to fully embrace the fiesta vibes!

FAQs for Zesty Fiesta Lime Chicken Avocado Bowl

Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, boneless chicken thighs work well and remain juicy. Adjust cooking time as thighs may need a few more minutes.

Can I substitute cilantro in the salsa with another herb?

Flat-leaf parsley offers a fresh, slightly peppery alternative if you prefer to avoid cilantro’s distinctive flavor.

Why is it recommended to prepare the salsa right before serving?

Lime juice in the salsa helps slow browning. Prepare right before serving for the best vibrant color and texture.

What are some serving suggestions to complement the flavors of Fiesta Lime Chicken Avocado?

Try serving with rice, quinoa, warm tortillas, or a crisp side salad to complement the bold, fresh flavors.

Conclusion

Fiesta Lime Chicken Avocado is a vibrant and flavorful dish that never fails to impress. The tangy lime-infused chicken paired with the creamy avocado salsa is a match made in culinary heaven. Whether you’re looking to brighten up your weeknight dinners or impress guests at a summer party, this recipe is a must-try.

Feel free to customize this dish to suit your preferences – swap chicken breast for thighs, add a touch of heat with jalapeños, or switch up the herbs in the salsa. The options are endless, making it a versatile and adaptable recipe for any occasion.

So whip up a batch of Fiesta Lime Chicken Avocado, double the salsa if needed (trust me, it’s that good!), and get ready to savor every delicious bite. Let this dish transport you to warm evenings filled with laughter and the aroma of the grill. Enjoy!

Zesty Fiesta Lime Chicken Avocado Bowl

Fiesta Lime Chicken Avocado: Tangy lime-marinated chicken paired with vibrant avocado salsa—bursting with bold colors and flavors, perfect for summer gatherings.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time15 Minutes

Cook Time25 Minutes

Total Time40 Minutes

CuisineMexican-inspired

Skill LevelEasy

Servings4 Servings

Ingredients

Chicken Preparation

• 0.5 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 tablespoon grated lime zest
• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
• 0.5 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 0.25 teaspoon garlic powder
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 0.25 teaspoon onion powder
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt, to taste
• 1 teaspoon chili powder

Avocado Salsa

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
• Salt, to taste
• 0.5 red onion, finely chopped
• 0.25 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 0.5 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped (optional)
• 250 grams cherry tomatoes, halved
• 2 ripe avocados, diced

Instructions

1. Prepare Marinade: In a large bowl, combine olive oil, lime juice, lime zest, chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Add chicken, coat well, cover, and refrigerate for 30 minutes to 4 hours.
2. Roast Chicken: 1. Preheat oven to 200°C and lightly oil a baking dish.
   2. Transfer marinated chicken to the dish, discarding excess marinade.
   3. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 74°C.
3. Prepare Avocado Salsa: Combine diced avocado, cherry tomatoes, red onion, jalapeño, and cilantro in a mixing bowl. In a separate bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Drizzle dressing over salsa ingredients, toss gently to combine.
4. Rest and Serve: Let the roasted chicken rest briefly, then slice and place on serving plates. Top with avocado salsa and serve promptly.