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Easy Applebee’s Fiesta Lime Chicken Copycat

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  • Author: Amy
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 20 minutes plus marinating time
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Halal

Description

This easy Applebee’s Fiesta Lime Chicken copycat features juicy marinated grilled chicken topped with creamy zesty dressing, melted cheese, and crunchy corn chips. It delivers bold restaurant-style flavor with a satisfying mix of smoky, tangy, creamy, and crunchy textures.


Ingredients

1 cup water

1/3 cup teriyaki sauce

1/2 cup lime juice

3 garlic cloves, minced

1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar

1 teaspoon liquid smoke

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon ground ginger

1/4 cup mayonnaise

1/4 cup sour cream

2 tablespoons chunky spicy salsa

1 tablespoon milk

1 teaspoon Cajun blackened spice mix

1/4 teaspoon dried parsley

1/4 teaspoon hot sauce

1/8 teaspoon dried dill weed

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts

1 cup shredded Colby-Monterey Jack cheese

2 cups crushed corn chips

Optional: lime wedges

Optional: chopped cilantro


Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, whisk together the water, teriyaki sauce, lime juice, garlic, apple cider vinegar, liquid smoke, salt, and ground ginger until combined.
  2. Add the chicken breasts to the marinade, coat well, cover, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight for the best flavor.
  3. In a separate bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, salsa, milk, Cajun seasoning, parsley, hot sauce, and dill weed. Mix until smooth, then refrigerate until ready to use.
  4. Preheat the grill to 375–450°F.
  5. Remove the chicken from the marinade and grill for 3–5 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
  6. Brush the grilled chicken generously with the prepared dressing and top with shredded Colby-Monterey Jack cheese.
  7. Place the chicken under a broiler until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  8. Serve over crushed corn chips or with chips on the side. Garnish with lime wedges and chopped cilantro if desired.

Notes

Greek yogurt can be used instead of sour cream for a lighter version.

Pepper jack or cheddar cheese can replace the Colby-Monterey Jack blend for a sharper flavor.

Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Keep corn chips separate until serving to maintain crunch.

The cooked chicken can be frozen for up to 2 months without the chips.


Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with toppings
  • Calories: 540 kcal
  • Sugar: 6 g
  • Sodium: 980 mg
  • Fat: 28 g
  • Saturated Fat: 10 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 24 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 45 g
  • Cholesterol: 125 mg