Fiesta Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa
1 tablespoon lime zest
1 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon cumin
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Fiesta Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa – flavor nectar
For the Avocado Salsa:
2 ripe avocados, diced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 red onion, finely chopped
1/2 jalapeno pepper, seeded and finely chopped (adjust for spice preference)
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
Chicken Marinade:
In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, lime zest, chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Add the chicken breasts or thighs to the marinade, ensuring they are evenly coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor.
Cooking the Chicken:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish.
Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the marinade (Note: Do not reuse marinade that has been in contact with raw chicken).
Arrange the chicken in a single layer in the prepared baking dish.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).