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Spicy Honey-Lime Chicken

Spicy honey-lime chicken with an easy sweet heat marinade and caramelized glaze. Grill until charred at the edges and juicy, then finish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
marinating 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Main Dish
Cuisine: Mexican-American
Calories: 520
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Chicken and marinade
  • 2 lb chicken breasts or thighs Use boneless skinless for even grilling.
  • 0.25 cup honey
  • 0.25 cup lime juice
  • 2 limes (zest) Zest 2 limes for the marinade.
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 garlic Minced.
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 0.5 tsp cayenne pepper
  • 0.5 tsp cumin
  • 1 salt To taste.
  • 1 black pepper To taste.
  • 1 fresh cilantro For garnish.

Equipment

  • 1 grill

Method
 

Make the honey-lime marinade
  1. Whisk together honey, lime juice, lime zest, olive oil, garlic, chili powder, cayenne, cumin, salt, and pepper until smooth and fragrant.
  2. Place chicken in a large zip-top bag and pour marinade over chicken, reserving 1/4 cup for basting.
  3. Marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours in the refrigerator.
Grill and glaze
  1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates.
  2. Grill chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, basting with the reserved marinade, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and you see charred edges.
  3. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes, then garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges and serve.

Notes

Pro tip: If your marinade is thick, whisk again right before basting so it coats evenly on the grill. Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days; freeze chicken for up to 2 months (freeze cooked, then thaw in the fridge). Dietary swap: use chicken thighs for extra tenderness, or substitute boneless skinless chicken breasts for a leaner option.