Fiesta Lime Chicken Recipe (Applebee’s Copycat)
Fiesta Lime Chicken is a flavorful dish featuring grilled chicken marinated in a zesty lime sauce, topped with a creamy Mexi-ranch sauce, melted cheese, and served over a crispy bed of tortilla strips. This dish is a popular Tex-Mex favorite, perfect for a delicious dinner.
⏳ Time Required
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Marination Time: 1-2 hours
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: ~1 hour 30 minutes
Ingredients
For the Chicken Marinade:
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
¼ cup lime juice (freshly squeezed)
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
½ tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
1 tbsp olive oil
For the Mexi-Ranch Sauce:
½ cup ranch dressing
¼ cup sour cream
2 tbsp salsa (mild or spicy, as preferred)
1 tsp taco seasoning
½ tsp lime juice
For Toppings & Serving:
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a Mexican cheese blend)
½ cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
1 cup tortilla strips
Chopped cilantro (for garnish)
1 cup cooked Spanish rice (optional, for serving)
Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, whisk together lime juice, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and olive oil.
Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it is well-coated.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or up to 2 hours for deeper flavor).
Step 2: Make the Mexi-Ranch Sauce
In a small bowl, mix ranch dressing, sour cream, salsa, taco seasoning, and lime juice.
Stir well until smooth, then refrigerate until ready to use.
Step 3: Grill the Chicken
Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
Remove the chicken from the marinade and shake off excess liquid.
Grill for 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Remove from the grill and place on a baking sheet.
Step 4: Add Sauce and Cheese
Spread a generous layer of the Mexi-ranch sauce over each chicken breast.
Sprinkle shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese evenly over the sauce.
Place under a broiler for 1-2 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 5: Serve
Place a bed of crispy tortilla strips on a plate.
Set the Fiesta Lime Chicken on top and garnish with fresh cilantro.
Serve with Spanish rice or a side of choice.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Calories: ~520 kcal
Protein: 45g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 120mg
Sodium: 950mg
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 3g
FAQs
1. Can I make this dish without a grill?
Yes! You can use a grill pan or even a regular skillet over medium-high heat. If using an oven, bake the marinated chicken at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes.
2. What can I serve with Fiesta Lime Chicken?
Some great sides include Spanish rice, refried beans, corn salsa, or a simple side salad.
3. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can marinate the chicken overnight and prepare the Mexi-ranch sauce a day in advance. Cook the chicken fresh before serving for the best flavor.
4. How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven at 300°F until warm.
5. Can I use another type of cheese?
Absolutely! Try Pepper Jack, Colby, or even a queso ble
nd for different flavors.