Zesty Lime Mojo Grilled Chicken
This Zesty Lime Mojo Grilled Chicken recipe will take your taste buds on a vibrant journey! Bursting with fresh lime juice, aromatic spices, and the kick of jalapeño, this dish is perfect for a summer barbecue or a quick weeknight dinner. Marinated to perfection, the chicken breasts are grilled until juicy and tender, then served with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for an invigorating finish. Enjoy it alongside a crisp salad, rice, or your favorite side dishes!
2
Servings
200
Calories
12
Ingredients
Ingredients
cumin seed
1/2 tablespoon (toasted and ground)
whole black peppercorn
1 teaspoon (toasted and ground)
coriander seed
1/2 teaspoon (toasted and ground)
sugar
1/4 teaspoon (added to spice mix)
salt
1/8 teaspoon (added to spice mix)
ground cumin
1/2 tablespoon (added to spice mix)
jalapeno
1 (seeded and minced)
garlic cloves
2 (minced)
fresh lime juice
3 tablespoons (freshly squeezed)
cilantro
3 tablespoons (chopped)
sherry wine vinegar
1 tablespoon (added to lime mojo)
boneless skinless chicken breasts
2 (whole)
Instructions
1
1. Begin by making the spice mix: In a skillet over medium heat, combine the cumin seeds, whole black peppercorns, and coriander seeds. Toast them until they become fragrant, which should take a few minutes. Once toasted, finely grind the spices using a spice grinder or mortar and pestle.
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2. In a small bowl, mix the ground spices with sugar and salt. This will be your spice rub for the chicken.
3
3. Next, prepare the lime mojo: In a separate bowl, combine the minced jalapeño, garlic cloves, fresh lime juice, chopped cilantro, and sherry wine vinegar. Stir until well mixed.
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4. Rub the spice mix generously over the chicken breasts to ensure even coating.
5
5. Place the seasoned chicken in a resealable Ziploc bag and pour the lime mojo mixture over the top. Seal the bag, making sure to press out any excess air. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld—ideally, marinate for 4 hours or overnight for deeper flavor.
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6. Preheat your barbecue grill or oven (if baking) to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the leftover marinade.
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7. Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). If baking, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) and bake for approximately 20-25 minutes.
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8. Once cooked through, remove the chicken from the grill/oven and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
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9. Serve the chicken garnished with additional fresh cilantro and a lime wedge for an extra zesty kick.
Nutrition Information
5
Fat
9
Carbs
22.5
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Zesty Lime Mojo Grilled Chicken?
It is a vibrant dish featuring chicken breasts marinated in a mixture of lime juice, aromatic spices, and jalapeno, then grilled until juicy.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe is designed to serve 2 people.
How many calories are in one serving?
Each serving contains approximately 200 calories.
What are the primary spices used in the rub?
The spice rub consists of cumin seeds, whole black peppercorns, coriander seeds, sugar, salt, and ground cumin.
How do I prepare the spices for the rub?
Toast the cumin seeds, peppercorns, and coriander seeds in a skillet until fragrant, then grind them finely using a spice grinder or mortar and pestle.
What ingredients are in the lime mojo?
The lime mojo is made from minced jalapeno, garlic, fresh lime juice, chopped cilantro, and sherry wine vinegar.
How long should the chicken marinate?
The chicken should marinate for at least 1 hour, though 4 hours or overnight is ideal for deeper flavor.
What is the recommended grilling time?
Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side.
What internal temperature should the chicken reach?
The chicken is safely cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Can I bake the Zesty Lime Mojo Chicken?
Yes, you can bake it in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for approximately 20-25 minutes.
What type of chicken is used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts.
How much protein is in each serving?
Each serving provides about 22.5 grams of protein.
What is the fat content per serving?
There are 5 grams of fat per serving.
How many carbohydrates are in this dish?
Each serving contains 9 grams of carbohydrates.
Is this recipe considered healthy?
Yes, it is tagged as a healthy recipe focused on lean protein and fresh ingredients.
Should the jalapeno be seeded?
Yes, the instructions specify that the jalapeno should be seeded and minced.
How much lime juice is needed?
You will need 3 tablespoons of freshly squeezed lime juice.
What type of vinegar is required for the mojo?
The recipe uses 1 tablespoon of sherry wine vinegar.
How many garlic cloves are used?
The recipe requires 2 minced garlic cloves.
What should I do with the marinade after removing the chicken?
You should discard the leftover marinade once the chicken is removed for cooking.
How much cumin seed is needed?
The recipe calls for 1/2 tablespoon of cumin seeds to be toasted and ground.
Is sugar included in the recipe?
Yes, 1/4 teaspoon of sugar is added to the spice rub.
What is the recommended garnish?
Garnish the finished chicken with fresh cilantro and a lime wedge.
How much coriander seed should I use?
Use 1/2 teaspoon of coriander seeds.
Should I rest the chicken after cooking?
Yes, let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling or baking before you slice it.
How many ingredients are in this recipe in total?
There are 12 distinct ingredients listed for this recipe.
What tools are needed for the spices?
You will need a skillet for toasting and a spice grinder or mortar and pestle for grinding.
Can I use a Ziploc bag for marinating?
Yes, the instructions suggest using a resealable Ziploc bag to ensure the chicken is evenly coated.
What are the suggested side dishes?
This chicken pairs well with a crisp salad, rice, or your favorite summer side dishes.
How many peppercorns are used?
The recipe calls for 1 teaspoon of whole black peppercorns.