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These Chili Lime Chicken Bites are packed with bold, bright flavors and come together quickly for an easy and satisfying meal any night of the week. They work well on their own, but also shine when added to salads, rice bowls, or wrapped in a tortilla. The combination of smoky chili powder and fresh lime zest keeps the dish lively without overpowering heat.
I first made these during a busy weeknight and was amazed how quickly they came together. Now I keep the seasoning mix on hand because they have become a regular request at dinner.
Ingredients
- Chili powder: provides smoky warmth choose good quality for best flavor
- Salt: balances the spices and enhances the chicken taste
- Garlic powder: adds a savory depth without needing fresh garlic
- Onion powder: rounds out the flavor profile with subtle sweetness
- Ground cumin: brings earthy warmth and complexity
- Sugar: cuts the acidity and rounds the spice blend
- Cayenne pepper: adds a gentle heat you can adjust to taste
- Lime zest: delivers fresh citrus brightness always zest before juicing the lime
- Olive oil: for cooking with a clean flavor and some healthy fats
- Raw boneless skinless chicken breasts: cut into bite sized pieces for even cooking choose fresh chicken with firm texture and no added water
Instructions
- Make the seasoning:
- Spoon all the seasonings including chili powder salt garlic powder onion powder cumin sugar and cayenne into a small bowl. Add in the fresh lime zest and stir thoroughly to combine so the flavors meld well.
- Season the chicken:
- Place your chicken bites into a large food safe plastic bag or into a mixing bowl and add the spice mixture on top. Seal the bag and shake vigorously or stir the contents well with a spoon so every piece of chicken is coated with the seasoning mix.
- Cook the chicken:
- Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large sauté pan or skillet over medium high heat. When the oil is hot but not smoking add the seasoned chicken in a single layer. If your pan is small cook in two batches to avoid overcrowding. Stir the chicken every two to three minutes letting it brown properly on each side. Cook for about 5 to 8 minutes total until the chicken is cooked through and golden on the outside.
- Serve:
- Take the pan off the heat and serve the chicken bites immediately with your choice of sides or toppings.
The lime zest is my favorite ingredient here since it adds a bright fresh note that wakes up the spices without adding acidity or moisture. I also love how this dish brings my family together. The first time I made it my husband came into the kitchen asking what smelled so incredible. It’s become a go to whenever I want something quick and flavorful.
Storage Tips
Store leftover chicken bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool them completely before sealing and use within this time frame for best taste and texture.
Ingredient Substitutions
Chili powder can be swapped for smoked paprika for a milder flavor. Cayenne pepper is optional and adjustable for heat level. If fresh lime is not available use a small amount of bottled lime juice added after cooking but fresh zest is preferred. Olive oil can be replaced with avocado oil or a neutral oil of your choice.
Serving Suggestions
These chicken bites shine served over seasoned rice or quinoa with roasted vegetables. Toss them into a leafy salad with avocado and a light vinaigrette or wrap the pieces in a warm tortilla with fresh salsa and sour cream for easy tacos.
Enjoy these quick flavorful chicken bites served any way you like. They’re perfect for busy weeknights.
Common Recipe Questions
- → What spices are used in the seasoning mix?
The seasoning includes chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, ground cumin, cayenne pepper, salt, sugar, and fresh lime zest.
- → How can I adjust the spice level?
You can add extra chili powder for more heat or omit the cayenne pepper for a milder flavor.
- → What cooking method is used for the chicken bites?
The chicken pieces are sautéed in olive oil over medium-high heat until browned and cooked through.
- → Which dishes pair well with these chicken bites?
They pair well with seasoned rice, roasted vegetables, salads, tortillas, or grain bowls.
- → Can these chicken bites be prepared ahead of time?
Yes, chicken pieces can be cut and frozen in advance for quick preparation later.