Zesty Lime Chicken Delight
This Zesty Lime Chicken Delight is not only a flavorful dish but also a healthy choice for anyone looking to enjoy a low-fat meal that doesn’t compromise on taste. Bursting with the vibrant flavors of medium hot chunky salsa and tangy Dijon mustard, this chicken dish is marinated to perfection, ensuring each bite is packed with zest and tenderness. Using yogurt instead of sour cream adds a refreshing twist while keeping it light and healthy. Serve this dish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for an aromatic finish; it’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends. With its high protein content and low carb profile, this recipe is a wonderful addition to any health-conscious diet.
3
Servings
160
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
medium hot chunky salsa
1/2 cup (none)
Dijon mustard
1/4 cup (none)
fresh lime juice
2 tablespoons (freshly squeezed)
boneless skinless chicken breast halves
3 whole (trimmed)
margarine
2 tablespoons (for melting)
parsley
to garnish (chopped fresh)
low-fat or fat-free sour cream
optional (for serving)
Instructions
1
In a large mixing bowl, combine the medium hot chunky salsa, Dijon mustard, and fresh lime juice to create a flavorful marinade.
2
Add the boneless skinless chicken breast halves to the marinade and turn to coat them well. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse.
3
In a large skillet, melt the margarine over medium heat until it starts to foam. This will add a rich flavor to the chicken as it cooks.
4
Remove the chicken from the marinade, reserving the marinade for later use. Place the chicken in the skillet and cook it for about 10 minutes, turning the pieces halfway through, until they are browned on both sides.
5
Once the chicken is browned, pour the reserved marinade into the skillet and allow it to cook for another 5 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender, with the marinade thickening to glaze the chicken.
6
Transfer the cooked chicken to a serving platter. Increase the heat to high and bring the remaining marinade to a boil for 1 minute to enhance its flavor.
7
Drizzle the boiled marinade over the chicken on the platter.
8
Garnish the dish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and flavor. Serve optional low-fat or fat-free sour cream alongside the chicken for a creamy touch.
Nutrition Information
4.7g
Fat
6.7g
Carbs
24g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Zesty Lime Chicken Delight?
It is a flavorful and healthy chicken dish marinated in salsa, mustard, and lime juice, then pan-seared to perfection.
Is this recipe healthy?
Yes, it is low-fat, low-carb, and high-protein, making it a great choice for health-conscious diets.
What are the main ingredients for the marinade?
The marinade consists of medium hot chunky salsa, Dijon mustard, and freshly squeezed lime juice.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
You should marinate the chicken in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, you can substitute chicken thighs, though the nutritional content, particularly fat, will change.
How many calories are in one serving?
There are approximately 160 calories per serving.
How much protein does this dish provide?
Each serving of this chicken dish provides 24g of protein.
Is this recipe suitable for a low-carb diet?
Yes, it is very low in carbohydrates, containing only 6.7g per serving.
What kind of salsa is recommended?
The recipe suggests using medium hot chunky salsa for the best flavor profile.
Can I substitute the Dijon mustard?
While Dijon is recommended for its tang, you could use spicy brown mustard as a substitute.
Is there a substitute for margarine?
You can use butter or a light cooking oil like olive oil if you prefer not to use margarine.
How do I prepare the marinade?
Simply combine the salsa, Dijon mustard, and lime juice in a large mixing bowl until well mixed.
How long does it take to cook the chicken in the skillet?
The chicken takes about 10 minutes to brown and an additional 5 minutes to cook through once the marinade is added.
What should I do with the reserved marinade?
Pour it into the skillet after the chicken is browned, cook for 5 minutes, and then boil it for 1 minute at the end.
Why do I need to boil the marinade for one minute?
Boiling the marinade that touched raw chicken is necessary for safety and helps to thicken it into a glaze.
Can I grill this Zesty Lime Chicken?
Yes, you can grill the marinated chicken over medium-high heat until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
Can I bake this recipe in the oven?
Yes, you can bake the chicken at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for 20-25 minutes or until fully cooked.
What garnish is suggested for this dish?
The recipe recommends using freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and aroma.
Is sour cream included in the recipe?
Low-fat or fat-free sour cream is optional and can be served on the side for a creamy touch.
Is this recipe dairy-free?
It contains margarine and optional sour cream; to make it dairy-free, use oil and skip the sour cream garnish.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe is designed to yield 3 servings.
Is this dish good for meal prep?
Yes, it reheats well and the high protein content makes it an excellent choice for prepared lunches.
Can I freeze the marinated chicken?
Yes, you can freeze the chicken in the marinade for up to 3 months for a quick future meal.
How should I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
What is the total fat content per serving?
Each serving contains 4.7g of fat.
Can I use bottled lime juice?
You can, but fresh lime juice provides a much brighter and more vibrant zest to the marinade.
Is this chicken dish spicy?
It has a mild to moderate heat depending on the spice level of the salsa you choose.
What side dishes pair well with this recipe?
It pairs beautifully with brown rice, quinoa, or a fresh green salad.
Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, but ensure they are completely thawed before you begin the marinating process.
How do I ensure the chicken stays tender?
Marinating for at least 30 minutes and avoiding overcooking in the skillet will keep the chicken tender.