Name: Applebees Fiesta Lime Chicken: 7 Steps to Perfection
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 cup lime juice (freshly squeezed); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 tablespoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; ½ teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese; ½ cup diced tomatoes; ½ cup sliced green onions; ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped; Tortilla strips for garnish (optional); Lime wedges for serving

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Applebees Fiesta Lime Chicken is a flavorful grilled chicken dish topped with cheese, tomatoes, green onions, and cilantro. This delicious recipe captures the essence of the popular restaurant dish right in your kitchen. If you’re looking for a meal that combines zesty lime flavor with savory grilled chicken, this dish is the perfect solution. Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Applebees Fiesta Lime Chicken

This Applebee’s Fiesta Lime Chicken recipe is not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor. Here are some reasons why you’ll love it:

Quick and easy preparation with minimal ingredients.
Perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests.
Flavorful marinade that infuses the chicken with zest.
Healthy option with lean protein and fresh ingredients.
Versatile—great for serving with various sides.
Can be made gluten-free, catering to dietary needs.

With this recipe, you can easily recreate the Fiesta Lime Chicken Applebee’s copycat experience at home, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.

Ingredients for Applebees Fiesta Lime Chicken

Gather these items:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup lime juice (freshly squeezed)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon cumin
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
½ cup diced tomatoes
½ cup sliced green onions
¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Tortilla strips for garnish (optional)
Lime wedges for serving

How to Make Applebees Fiesta Lime Chicken Step-by-Step

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine lime juice, olive oil, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
Step 2: Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat, ensuring it’s well-prepared for cooking.
Step 3: Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade and grill for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F/75°C).
Step 4: Add Cheese: During the last few minutes of grilling, sprinkle shredded Monterey Jack cheese on top of the chicken. Close the grill lid to melt the cheese.
Step 5: Prepare Toppings: While the chicken is grilling, chop the tomatoes, green onions, and cilantro. Set aside.
Step 6: Plate the Chicken: Once the chicken is done, remove it from the grill and place it on a serving platter.
Step 7: Add Toppings: Generously top the chicken with diced tomatoes, sliced green onions, and chopped cilantro.
Step 8: Garnish: Optionally, add tortilla strips on top for extra crunch. Serve with lime wedges on the side.
Step 9: Enjoy: Serve hot and watch as your family and friends rave about this amazing dish!

Pro Tips for the Best Applebees Fiesta Lime Chicken

Keep these in mind:

Use freshly squeezed lime juice for the best flavor.
Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes, or longer for more intense flavor.
Grilling on medium-high heat will ensure the chicken is cooked evenly without drying out.
For added flavor, consider using an Applebee’s Lime Chicken marinade that you make from scratch.

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Best Ways to Serve Applebees Fiesta Lime Chicken

This dish pairs wonderfully with:

Rice or quinoa for a complete meal.
Grilled vegetables for a healthy side.
Fresh salads for a lighter option.

Don’t forget to serve it with lime wedges to enhance the Applebee’s chicken with lime sauce experience!

How to Store and Reheat Applebees Fiesta Lime Chicken

To store leftovers, place the chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the grill until heated through. This dish is perfect for meal prep, providing an easy option for quick dinners during the week.

Frequently Asked Questions About Applebees Fiesta Lime Chicken

What’s the secret to perfect Applebees Fiesta Lime Chicken?

The secret lies in the marinade! Using fresh lime juice and allowing the chicken to soak will ensure maximum flavor. This Fiesta Lime Chicken preparation steps are crucial for achieving that restaurant-quality taste.

Can I make Applebees Fiesta Lime Chicken ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken a day in advance, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights. Just grill it fresh when you’re ready to serve.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Applebees Fiesta Lime Chicken?

To avoid drying out the chicken, ensure that you grill it at the right temperature and check for doneness with a meat thermometer. This will help you achieve juicy and flavorful chicken every time.

Variations of Applebees Fiesta Lime Chicken You Can Try

Here are some fun twists on the classic dish:

Swap out the Monterey Jack cheese for pepper jack for a spicy kick.
Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier option.
For a different flavor profile, add pineapple chunks to the grill for a sweet and savory combination.

With these variations, you can keep the dish exciting while staying true to the American cuisine roots!

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For more delicious recipes, check out our Baked Lemon Rosemary Chicken or Creamy Tuscan Scallops Recipe. If you’re looking for a great side, try our Vegetable Zucchini Fritters!