Chili lime chicken with roasted corn is the kind of dish that transports your taste buds to a sun-soaked fiesta. Imagine sinking your teeth into juicy, zesty chicken, perfectly complemented by the sweet crunch of roasted corn. The vibrant colors and tantalizing aromas will make your kitchen feel like a summer barbecue, regardless of the season.
This recipe isn’t just about mouthwatering flavors; it’s also steeped in memories. I remember the first time I made chili lime chicken with roasted corn for my friends during a backyard gathering. The laughter, the music, and that irresistible smell wafting through the air created an unforgettable evening filled with joy and deliciousness.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This chili lime chicken with roasted corn is not only easy to prepare but also bursts with flavor that will impress your guests.
- The bright colors make it a feast for the eyes as well as the palate.
- You can easily adapt this recipe for grilling, baking, or even meal prep throughout the week.
- It’s perfect for any occasion, from casual family dinners to festive summer parties.
Ingredients for chili lime chicken with roasted corn
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but adjust based on how many people you’re feeding.
- Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice adds that essential zesty kick; avoid bottled versions if possible.
- Chili Powder: A key ingredient that brings warmth and depth; choose your heat level wisely.
- Fresh Corn: Use fresh corn on the cob for roasting; it enhances sweetness and texture beautifully.
- Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic infuses amazing flavor; crush them to release their aromatic oils.
- Olive Oil: A drizzle helps keep everything moist while adding richness to the dish.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to elevate all those vibrant flavors; don’t skip them!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make chili lime chicken with roasted corn
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it warms up, spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. Season your chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
Step 2: Mix Your Marinade
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, freshly squeezed lime juice, chili powder, and minced garlic until well combined. This marinade will pack a punch!
Step 3: Marinate the Chicken
Place your seasoned chicken breasts in a large zip-top bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over them, making sure they are adequately coated. Let it marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes — longer if you have time.
Step 4: Roast Your Corn
While your chicken is soaking up all those flavors, prepare your corn. If using fresh cobs, simply cut off the kernels and toss them in olive oil along with salt and pepper. Spread them out evenly on a baking tray.
Step 5: Bake Everything Together
Once marinated, place the chicken in your prepared baking dish alongside the corn. Bake both for about 25-30 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of at least 165°F (75°C) and is golden brown.
Step 6: Serve It Up!
Transfer everything onto plates and don’t forget to drizzle some extra marinade over your chicken for added flavor! Garnish with lime wedges if you’re feeling fancy — because who doesn’t love a little pizzazz?
And voilà! You’ve just whipped up some incredible chili lime chicken with roasted corn that’s sure to make you look like a culinary genius without breaking a sweat!
You Must Know
- This amazing chili lime chicken with roasted corn offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze.
- You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
- The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
- Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve perfect results, start by marinating your chicken to soak up all those zesty flavors. While the chicken is soaking, grill or roast your corn until it’s slightly charred. Cook the chicken next, ensuring that it’s juicy and tender while the corn cools.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the chicken for tofu or shrimp if you’re looking for a different protein. Add some diced bell peppers or avocado for extra nutrition and flavor. A sprinkle of feta cheese can also elevate your dish with a creamy finish.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, use a skillet over medium heat to keep the chicken juicy without drying it out. Microwave works too, just don’t overdo it!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use fresh limes for maximum juice and flavor; bottled lime juice just doesn’t cut it!
- Let your chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes—overnight is even better!
- Broil the corn briefly after grilling to enhance its sweetness.
Sometimes when I make chili lime chicken with roasted corn, my friends show up uninvited because they smell it cooking from a mile away! They always leave asking for the recipe, which makes my heart smile every time.
FAQs :
What is the best way to marinate chili lime chicken with roasted corn?
Marinating the chicken is essential for infusing flavor. Use a mixture of lime juice, chili powder, garlic, and olive oil. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes, but ideally up to two hours. This not only enhances the flavor but also helps tenderize the meat. Make sure to coat every piece evenly for maximum taste.
Can I use frozen chicken for chili lime chicken with roasted corn?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s important to thaw it completely before marinating. Frozen chicken may not absorb flavors as well as fresh chicken. To thaw, place it in the refrigerator overnight or submerge it in cold water for quicker results. Once thawed, proceed with your marinade and cooking instructions as usual.
How long should I cook chili lime chicken with roasted corn?
Cooking time depends on the thickness of the chicken breasts. Generally, grill or bake them at 400°F for about 20-25 minutes until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F. If you’re using smaller pieces or skewers, check them after 15 minutes. Always use a meat thermometer for accurate results to ensure perfectly cooked chicken every time.
What can I serve with chili lime chicken with roasted corn?
This flavorful dish pairs wonderfully with various sides like cilantro-lime rice, black beans, or a fresh avocado salad. You could also serve it in tacos or burritos for a fun twist. The zesty flavors complement many dishes well, making it versatile for weeknight dinners or gatherings.
Conclusion for chili lime chicken with roasted corn :
Chili lime chicken with roasted corn offers a vibrant and flavorful meal that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. By marinating the chicken properly and pairing it with delicious sides, you will create an unforgettable dining experience. Remember to adjust cooking times based on your chicken’s thickness and enjoy this delightful dish with family and friends!
Chili Lime Chicken with Roasted Corn
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Description
This vibrant chili lime chicken with roasted corn is a zesty delight that transforms any meal into a festive feast, perfect for gatherings or weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 2 ears of fresh corn, kernels removed
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. Season chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, chili powder, and minced garlic until well combined.
- Place seasoned chicken breasts in a large zip-top bag or shallow dish. Pour marinade over them, ensuring they are well coated. Let marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes.
- While chicken marinates, cut kernels from fresh corn cobs and toss them in olive oil along with salt and pepper. Spread evenly on a baking tray.
- Once marinated, place chicken in the prepared baking dish alongside the corn. Bake for about 25-30 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of at least 165°F (75°C) and is golden brown.
- Transfer everything onto plates and drizzle some extra marinade over the chicken for added flavor. Garnish with lime wedges if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: For added nutrition, consider incorporating diced bell peppers or avocado. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days; when reheating, use medium heat to keep chicken juicy.
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