Craving a delicious meal that’s both easy to make and bursting with flavor? You’re in luck! Chili’s Margarita Grilled Chicken is not just a restaurant favorite; it can be whipped up right in your kitchen. Imagine the juicy, marinated chicken paired with that zesty kick of lime and a hint of tequila, all grilled to perfection.
Key Takeaways
- Flavorful Marination: Marinate boneless, skinless chicken breasts in a mix of lime juice, tequila, garlic, and spices for at least 30 minutes to enhance the flavor.
- Grilling Technique: Grill the marinated chicken on medium-high heat for 6-8 minutes per side, ensuring it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption.
- Tasty Pairings: Serve Chili’s Margarita Grilled Chicken with sides like Mexican rice, refried beans, or grilled vegetables to create a well-rounded meal.
- Beverage Suggestions: Complement your dish with beverages like margaritas, light beers, or sparkling water to elevate the dining experience.
- Nutritional Info: Each serving contains about 320 calories, 30g of protein, and 18g of fat, making it a flavorful yet balanced choice.
Overview Of Chili’s Margarita Grilled Chicken
Chili’s Margarita Grilled Chicken stands out for its vibrant flavors and simplicity. It features marinated chicken breasts, infused with fresh lime juice and a touch of tequila. This combination creates a delightful tanginess that enhances the grilled taste.
Key Ingredients
- Chicken Breasts: Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for best results.
- Marinade: Combine lime juice, tequila, garlic, and herbs to create the marinade.
- Spices: Cumin, salt, and pepper add depth to the flavor.
- Toppings: Optional toppings include fresh cilantro, sliced limes, or diced tomatoes.
Preparation Steps
- Marinate: Soak the chicken in the marinade for at least 30 minutes. Longer marination enhances flavor.
- Preheat: Heat the grill to medium-high for even cooking.
- Grill: Cook the chicken for 6-8 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Serve: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing, then serve with your favorite sides.
Serving Suggestions
Pair the chicken with rice, beans, or a fresh salad. Consider adding tortilla chips and salsa for a true Chili’s experience.
Nutrition Facts
Here’s a breakdown of nutritional information per serving:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 |
| Protein | 30g |
| Carbohydrates | 7g |
| Fat | 18g |
| Sodium | 600mg |
Ingredients Needed
To create Chili’s Margarita Grilled Chicken, gather these essential ingredients. You’ll find that fresh and pantry staples combine to deliver a vibrant and flavorful meal.
Fresh Ingredients
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use about 1.5 pounds, which provides enough chicken for four servings.
- Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed juice from 2-3 limes adds the necessary acidity and zest.
- Garlic: Incorporate 2-3 cloves of minced garlic for depth of flavor.
- Fresh Herbs: Use 1 tablespoon of chopped cilantro to enhance the dish’s freshness.
- Tequila: Opt for ¼ cup of any quality tequila to incorporate that distinctive flavor in the marinade.
- Cumin: Add 1 teaspoon of ground cumin for a warm, earthy undertone.
- Salt: Use ½ teaspoon of salt to season the chicken perfectly.
- Black Pepper: Add ¼ teaspoon of fresh ground black pepper for a touch of heat.
- Olive Oil: Use 2 tablespoons of olive oil to help the marinade coat the chicken evenly.
Gather these ingredients to prepare a delicious and satisfying dish that brings the taste of Chili’s right to your kitchen.
Step-By-Step Preparation
Follow these easy steps to prepare Chili’s Margarita Grilled Chicken at home. Enjoy a flavorful meal that brings vibrant tastes to your table.
Marinating The Chicken
- Combine Ingredients: In a bowl, mix ¼ cup of tequila, juice from 2-3 limes, 2-3 minced garlic cloves, 1 tablespoon of chopped cilantro, 1 teaspoon of ground cumin, ½ teaspoon of salt, ¼ teaspoon of black pepper, and 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
- Add Chicken: Place 1.5 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts in the marinade. Ensure each piece is well-coated.
- Let It Soak: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to penetrate the chicken. For stronger flavors, marinate for up to 2 hours.
- Preheat The Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high, allowing it to reach around 400°F.
- Remove Chicken From Marinade: Take the chicken breasts out of the marinade and let any excess marinade drip off. Discard the leftover marinade.
- Grill The Chicken: Place the chicken on the grill. Cook for about 6-7 minutes per side. Flip only once for grilling marks.
- Check For Doneness: Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F using a meat thermometer for accuracy.
- Serve Immediately: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes. Slice and serve with your choice of sides like rice, beans, or salad.
Serving Suggestions
Enhancing your Chili’s Margarita Grilled Chicken experience involves selecting the right sides and beverages. Here’s how to serve it up well.
Pairing With Sides
Choose sides that complement the flavors of the chicken. Here are some great options:
- Mexican Rice – Add a savory touch with seasoned rice, perfect for soaking up the marinade’s zesty essence.
- Refried Beans – Serve warm, creamy beans for a classic accompaniment packed with protein and fiber.
- Grilled Vegetables – Include charred peppers, zucchini, or corn to add freshness and color to your plate.
- Fresh Salad – Opt for a crisp salad with avocado and tomatoes. A light vinaigrette enhances the dish’s overall brightness.
- Corn Tortillas – Present soft tortillas for wrapping the chicken, adding versatility and a fun eating experience.
Beverage Recommendations
The right beverage elevates your meal. Consider these options:
- Margaritas – Pair with classic lime or fruit-flavored margaritas to echo the dish’s flavors.
- Light Beers – Choose a pilsner or lager for a refreshing contrast that cleanses the palate.
- Sparkling Water – Serve sparkling water with a slice of lime for a non-alcoholic option that refreshes.
- Iced Tea – Offer sweetened or unsweetened iced tea, giving a comforting balance to the spicy and tangy chicken.
- Sangria – Enjoy fruity sangria for a colorful, festive choice, complementing the dish’s vibrant flavors.
These serving suggestions enhance your meal and create a memorable dining experience.
Conclusion
Making Chili’s Margarita Grilled Chicken at home is a fantastic way to enjoy a delicious meal with vibrant flavors. You’ll love how simple it is to prepare this dish that brings a taste of the restaurant right to your kitchen.
With just a few key ingredients and some grilling magic you can impress your family and friends. Whether you serve it with rice beans or a fresh salad you’re sure to create a memorable dining experience.
So grab those ingredients fire up the grill and enjoy every juicy bite of your homemade Margarita Grilled Chicken!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Chili’s Margarita Grilled Chicken?
Chili’s Margarita Grilled Chicken is a flavorful dish made with juicy, marinated chicken breasts infused with a zesty lime and tequila flavor. It’s a simple yet delicious meal that can be easily replicated at home.
What ingredients are needed for Margarita Grilled Chicken?
The essential ingredients include boneless, skinless chicken breasts, lime juice, garlic, cilantro, tequila, ground cumin, salt, black pepper, and olive oil. These combine to create a vibrant marinade that enhances the chicken’s flavor.
How do you prepare Margarita Grilled Chicken?
To prepare the chicken, mix marinade ingredients in a bowl, add the chicken, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Preheat the grill to medium-high and cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
What are some suggested sides to serve with this dish?
Great sides for Margarita Grilled Chicken include Mexican rice, refried beans, grilled vegetables, fresh salad, and corn tortillas. These options complement the chicken and enhance the overall dining experience.
What beverages pair well with Margarita Grilled Chicken?
For beverages, consider classic margaritas, light beers, sparkling water, iced tea, or fruity sangria. These drinks balance the dish’s flavors and contribute to a festive atmosphere.
How many calories are in a serving of Margarita Grilled Chicken?
Each serving of Margarita Grilled Chicken contains approximately 320 calories, 30g of protein, 7g of carbohydrates, 18g of fat, and 600mg of sodium, making it a nutritious option for a satisfying meal.
