Grilled Tequila Lime Chicken

There’s nothing quite like the sizzle of chicken on a hot grill. And this Grilled Tequila Lime Chicken is next level. Smoky charred grilled chicken infused with bright zesty lime & tequila flavors, topped with blistered tomatoes and Pearls Specialties Jalapeño Stuffed Olives. Who’s ready for a Southwestern summer cookout? Don’t forget the margaritas!

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Disclosure: This post is a sponsored post on behalf of Pearls. As always, all opinions are my own.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

1. Incredible Flavor Profile: The combination of tequila, lime, and spices creates a marinade that infuses the chicken with incredible depth of flavor. In addition, the chicken is topped with blistered juicy tomatoes and Pearls Specialties Jalapeño Stuffed Olives, this adds another unique layer of bite and savory flavor.
2. Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time and a straightforward grilling process, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu cookouts.
3. Healthy and Versatile: Grilled chicken is a wonderful high-protein option, and this recipe can be paired with a variety of sides, from fresh salads to grilled vegetables.
4. Impressive Presentation: The beautiful grill marks on the chicken with blistered juicy tomatoes and Pearls Specialties Jalapeño Stuffed Olives make this dish as visually appealing as it is delicious.

Ingredient Notes

• Chicken Thighs: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are the star of this dish. They cook quickly and evenly on the grill. They have a fatter content to them then chicken breasts, slightly overcooking them will not dry them out as opposed to chicken breasts. This is one of my favorite reason why I choose thighs over and over again. If I step away from the grill for a minute, I know the meal won’t be ruined. But, if chicken breasts are your go-to, this recipe will be just as delicious.
• Tequila: A good quality blanco tequila adds a subtle, agave flavor to the marinade. Don’t worry, the alcohol will cook off, leaving behind just the flavor. Safe to say, this chicken is family friendly with a small amount of kick added.
• Lime: Fresh lime juice and lime zest is essential for that tangy, citrusy kick. Make sure to zest the limes before juicing to get the most out of them.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves provide a robust, aromatic base for the marinade that really shines through even after the chicken is cooked through.
• Paprika and Chili Powder: These spices add a hint of smokiness and kick to the chicken. To reduce the spice level, ensure the paprika used here is a sweet paprika, not a spicy one. Leave out the chili powder entirely because that tends to be pretty spicy and sub it out with a favorite seasoning that the whole family will love.
• Olive Oil: Helps to bind the marinade ingredients together and ensures the chicken stays moist during grilling.
• Pearls Specialties Jalapeño Stuffed Olives – These delicious, premium queen olives feature a firm texture and are hand-stuffed with spicy jalapeño peppers. When they hit the grill, they soften up ever so slightly and pick up a smoky flavor without losing flavor. I enjoy keeping a few jars of Pearls Specialties Olives in my pantry to add onto summer recipes, for healthy snacking, and for whipping up effortless appetizers. They’re a MUST for everyday entertaining and special occasions.
• Grape Tomatoes: When grape tomatoes are grilled, they turn into these soft blistered juicy little bites almost equivalent to a smoky tomato sauce.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

If chicken breasts are your go-to, this recipe will be just as delicious as it would be with the thighs. The cooking time will need to be slightly adjusted. First, preheat the grill to medium-high heat, between 425° and 475° F, for 10–15 minutes. Lightly oil the grill grates with olive or vegetable oil using a paper towel or tongs. Place the chicken breasts onto the grill and cook until grill marks form, about 5-6 minutes per side. The chicken should be cooked to an internal temperate of 160–165° F, as measured by an instant-read thermometer inserted into the center. Then, remove them from the grill and let rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing/serving.

2. Can I make this recipe without alcohol?

Yes, you can substitute the tequila with chicken broth or extra lime juice for a non-alcoholic version. The flavor will be slightly different, but still delicious.

3. How long should I marinate the chicken?

For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes. If you have more time, letting it marinate for up to 2-4 hours will deepen the flavor even more.

4. Can I cook this chicken indoors?

Yes, if you don’t have access to a grill, you can cook the chicken on a grill pan or a regular skillet on the stovetop. Just make sure it’s fully cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

5. What sides pair well with this dish?

Grilled vegetables, corn bread, a chopped Southwest salad, corn on the cob, or a side of black beans and rice would all complement this chicken beautifully.

Margaritas Anyone?

I love to add a margarita or mocktail margarita as a refreshing beverage to pair with a dinner meal.

To make a classic margarita, gather these ingredients:

• 2 oz tequila (preferably blanco or reposado)
• 1 oz fresh lime juice
• 1 oz Cointreau or Triple Sec
• 1/2 oz simple syrup or agave syrup
• Ice
• Coarse salt for rimming the glass
• Lime wedge for garnish

To make the classic margarita:

• Run a lime wedge around the rim of your margarita glass.
• Dip the rim into a plate of coarse salt to coat it evenly.
• Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
• Add the tequila, lime juice, Cointreau/Triple Sec, and simple syrup.
• Shake well until the mixture is chilled (about 15-20 seconds).
• Fill the prepared margarita glass with ice.
• Strain the margarita mixture into the glass.
• Garnish with a lime wedge.

To make my favorite strawberry mocktail, gather these ingredients:

• 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
• 1/4 cup strawberry juice blend
• 2 tablespoons agave syrup or simple syrup
• 1/2 cup sparkling water or club soda
• Ice
• Coarse salt for rimming the glass
• Sliced jalapeño and mint for garnish

To make the strawberry mocktail:

• Run a lime wedge around the rim of your margarita glass.
• Dip the rim into a plate of coarse salt to coat it evenly.
• In a shaker or large glass, combine the lime juice, strawberry juice, and agave syrup (or simple syrup).
• Fill the shaker or glass with ice and shake or stir well until the mixture is chilled.
• Fill the prepared margarita glass with ice.
• Strain the juice mixture into the glass.
• Top off with sparkling water or club soda, stirring gently to combine.
• Garnish with sliced jalapeño and mint.

If you love this summer time recipe, I bet you’ll love these too:

Peach, Burrata, And Prosciutto Salad

Herb And Kalamata Lamb Meatballs With Tzatziki

Greek Chicken Salad

Whipped Feta With Arugula Pesto

Lemon Basil Burrata With Garlic Toasts

Birria Tacos

If you make this Grilled Tequila Lime Chicken, be sure to leave a comment and/or give this recipe a rating! I’d love to hear what you think about it, or better yet, see what you’re cooking! Tag me on Instagram, @fettysfoodblog with your creation

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