Southwestern Grilled Chicken Recipe with Lime Butter

Grilling season is here, and there’s no better way to celebrate than with this Southwestern Grilled Chicken Recipe with Lime Butter. This dish is perfect for family gatherings, summer barbecues, or a casual weeknight dinner. The combination of spices and the zesty lime butter elevates the chicken to a new level of flavor that everyone will love. Easy to prepare and bursting with taste, it’s a meal that will leave your guests asking for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bursting with Flavor – The blend of chili powder, cinnamon, and brown sugar creates a unique taste that’s both sweet and spicy.
• Easy Preparation – With just a few simple steps, you can have a delicious meal on the table in under an hour.
• Perfect for Any Occasion – Whether it’s a holiday gathering or a Tuesday night dinner, this chicken fits right in.
• Grilling Perfection – Cooking on the grill adds a smoky touch that enhances the overall flavor of the chicken.
• Versatile Serving Options – Serve it as the main dish or slice it up for salads and sandwiches.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delightful recipe, gather your tools to ensure everything goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill (gas or charcoal)
• Mixing bowls
• Basting brush
• Measuring spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Essential for achieving that perfect char and smoky flavor.
• Mixing bowls: Helps in preparing seasoning mixes efficiently without mess.
• Basting brush: Ensures even coating of spices on the chicken for maximum flavor.

Ingredients

Grilled chicken doesn’t get any tastier than when it’s coated with lovely spices and topped with lime butter.

For the Chicken

• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon coarse black pepper
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• 3 1/2 pounds bone-in chicken parts

For the Lime Butter

• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, melted
• 1 serrano chile, minced
• 2 tablespoons minced white onion
• 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
• pinch coarse black pepper

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Southwestern Grilled Chicken Recipe with Lime Butter

Step 1: Prepare the Spice Mix

Mix first 8 ingredients in a small bowl until well blended. Spread seasoning paste all over chicken with a spoon or basting brush.

Step 2: Grill the Chicken

Grill chicken using medium heat for a gas grill or indirect heat for a charcoal grill. Close the lid and grill about 30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.

Step 3: Make the Lime Butter

For the Lime Butter, mix all ingredients in another small bowl. Drizzle over chicken just before serving or serve separately for dipping.

Enjoy your flavorful Southwestern Grilled Chicken Recipe with Lime Butter!

How to Serve Southwestern Grilled Chicken Recipe with Lime Butter

Serving Southwestern Grilled Chicken with Lime Butter is a delightful experience that enhances the meal’s flavor and presentation. Here are some suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

With Fresh Salad

• Cilantro Lime Salad: A zesty salad with fresh cilantro, lime juice, and mixed greens complements the chicken beautifully.
• Avocado and Tomato Salad: Creamy avocado and juicy tomatoes create a refreshing side that pairs well with the spices.

In Tacos

• Grilled Chicken Tacos: Shred the grilled chicken and serve it in warm tortillas topped with salsa, lime, and cilantro for a fun twist.
• Southwestern Chicken Wraps: Wrap the chicken in a tortilla with veggies and lime butter for a portable meal option.

On Rice or Quinoa

• Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice infused with lime and cilantro provides a perfect base for the flavorful chicken.
• Spiced Quinoa: Quinoa seasoned with cumin and coriander offers a nutritious side that balances out the dish.

How to Perfect Southwestern Grilled Chicken Recipe with Lime Butter

To make your Southwestern Grilled Chicken even better, follow these helpful tips.

• Bold Seasoning Mix: Ensure you mix your spices thoroughly to coat every piece of chicken evenly for maximum flavor.
• Medium Heat Grilling: Keep your grill at medium heat to prevent burning while ensuring the chicken cooks through perfectly.
• Use Bone-In Chicken: Bone-in parts retain moisture better than boneless cuts, resulting in juicier chicken.
• Marinate Overnight: For deeper flavor, marinate the chicken overnight in the spice mix before grilling.
• Monitor Cooking Time: Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
• Rest Before Serving: Let the grilled chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling to lock in juices before slicing.

Best Side Dishes for Southwestern Grilled Chicken Recipe with Lime Butter

Pairing side dishes with your Southwestern Grilled Chicken can enhance both taste and presentation. Here are some great options.

1. Mexican Street Corn: Grilled corn on the cob coated with cheese, chili powder, and lime is a crowd-pleaser.
2. Black Bean Salsa: A fresh salsa made from black beans, corn, bell peppers, and cilantro adds color and nutrition.
3. Roasted Veggies: Seasonal vegetables tossed in olive oil and herbs roasted until tender complement the grilled flavors well.
4. Spanish Rice: Flavorful rice cooked with tomatoes and spices serves as a hearty base alongside the chicken.
5. Guacamole: Creamy avocado dip served with tortilla chips is always a hit at gatherings.
6. Coleslaw: A tangy slaw adds crunch and contrasts nicely with the savory flavors of grilled chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Grilling the perfect Southwestern Grilled Chicken Recipe with Lime Butter can be simple if you avoid common pitfalls. Here are a few mistakes to keep in mind:

• Overseasoning the chicken: Using too much spice can overwhelm the dish. Stick to the recommended amounts for a balanced flavor.
• Not letting the chicken rest: Cutting into grilled chicken too soon can result in dry meat. Allow it to rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
• Using high heat throughout: Cooking on high heat can char the outside while leaving the inside undercooked. Use medium heat for even cooking.
• Skipping the marinade time: Rushing through marinating can lead to bland chicken. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes for full flavor absorption.
• Ignoring food safety: Always ensure chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Southwestern Grilled Chicken Recipe with Lime Butter

• Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• The chicken can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Southwestern Grilled Chicken Recipe with Lime Butter

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate, cover, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium-low heat. Add a little olive oil and warm the chicken, turning occasionally until heated throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make the Lime Butter for this recipe?

To make Lime Butter, simply mix melted butter with minced serrano chile, white onion, fresh lime juice, and a pinch of coarse black pepper. Drizzle it over your grilled chicken just before serving.

Can I use different cuts of chicken?

Yes! While bone-in pieces work well, you can use boneless breasts or thighs for quicker cooking. Adjust grilling time accordingly.

What should I serve with Southwestern Grilled Chicken?

This dish pairs well with sides like grilled vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad. Feel free to customize based on your taste!

How long does it take to grill the chicken?

Grilling usually takes about 30 minutes. Make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.

Final Thoughts

The Southwestern Grilled Chicken Recipe with Lime Butter is not only delicious but also versatile. It’s perfect for family dinners or summer barbecues. Customize it by adding your favorite spices or side dishes to make it your own! Enjoy grilling!