Welcome to our ultimate guide on how to prepare delicious Santa Fe grilled chicken! If you’re looking for a healthy and flavorful way to spice up your next BBQ, then look no further. We’ve got 50 amazing recipes that are sure to impress your guests and taste buds. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned grill master, we’ve got something for everyone. So let’s fire up the grill and get cooking!
Ingredients
For the marinade:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup lime juice
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Instructions
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, honey, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper to make the marinade.
- Place the chicken breasts in a large plastic bag and pour the marinade over them. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 8 hours.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the marinade.
- Place the chicken on the grill and cook for 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Nutritional Information
Each serving of Santa Fe grilled chicken (1 chicken breast) contains:
- Calories: 220
- Protein: 26g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fat: 8g
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 375mg
Cooking Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Marinating Time: 30 minutes-8 hours
Cook Time: 12-16 minutes
Total Time: 52 minutes-8 hours 10 minutes
Equipment
- Grill
- Large plastic bag
- Meat thermometer
Serving Suggestions
Serve Santa Fe grilled chicken with:
- Cilantro lime rice
- Black beans
- Grilled vegetables
- Greek salad
- Tortilla chips and guacamole
Variations
Here are a few ways you can switch up the flavors of your Santa Fe grilled chicken:
- Swap out the chili powder for chipotle powder for a smokier flavor.
- Add a tablespoon of adobo sauce for a spicy kick.
- Use lemon juice instead of lime juice for a brighter flavor.
- Add a tablespoon of brown sugar for a sweeter marinade.
- Top the chicken with sliced avocado and pico de gallo for a fresh and flavorful twist.
Substitutions
If you don’t have all the ingredients on hand, here are a few substitutions you can make:
- Use apple cider vinegar instead of lime juice.
- Swap out the honey for maple syrup or agave nectar.
- Use smoked paprika instead of chili powder.
- Substitute boneless, skinless chicken thighs for chicken breasts.
Storage
Leftover Santa Fe grilled chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Tips
- Make sure your grill is preheated before adding the chicken to ensure even cooking.
- Don’t overcook the chicken, as it can become dry and tough.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 165°F.
Notes
This recipe makes enough marinade for 4 chicken breasts, but can easily be doubled or halved to suit your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use bone-in chicken instead of boneless? Yes, bone-in chicken will work just as well.
- Can I use frozen chicken? It’s best to use fresh chicken, but if you must use frozen, make sure it’s fully thawed before marinating and grilling.
- Can I grill this chicken on a stovetop grill pan? Yes, a stovetop grill pan will work just as well.
Personal Thoughts
I absolutely love this Santa Fe grilled chicken recipe! The marinade is packed with so much flavor and the chicken turns out juicy and tender every time. It’s such a versatile recipe that can be served with so many different sides and toppings. Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ or just looking for a quick and easy weeknight meal, this recipe is a winner. So what are you waiting for? Fire up the grill and give it a try!