Description
A bold and zesty grilled chicken dish inspired by Applebee’s classic, featuring juicy lime-marinated chicken topped with melted Monterey Jack cheese and fresh, vibrant garnishes.
Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon cumin
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
1/2 cup diced tomatoes
1/2 cup sliced green onions
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Tortilla strips for garnish (optional)
Lime wedges for serving
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine lime juice, olive oil, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper.
- Add chicken breasts to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (up to 2 hours for deeper flavor).
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
- Remove chicken from marinade and grill for 6–7 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- During the last few minutes of cooking, sprinkle shredded Monterey Jack cheese over each chicken breast and close the lid to melt.
- Transfer chicken to a serving platter and top with diced tomatoes, sliced green onions, and chopped cilantro.
- Garnish with tortilla strips if desired and serve with fresh lime wedges.
Notes
For baking, cook at 375°F until chicken reaches 165°F, then broil briefly to melt the cheese.
Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the marinade for extra heat.
Substitute smoked paprika for part of the chili powder for a smoky flavor.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freeze cooked chicken for up to 2 months and thaw before reheating.
For a lighter option, reduce cheese or serve over a fresh salad.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 520 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 8 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 46 g
- Cholesterol: 135 mg
