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Applebee’s Copycat Fiesta Lime Chicken

Close-up of a juicy piece of Fiesta Lime Chicken topped with melted orange cheddar and white cheese, sprinkled with herbs.
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Make this popular restaurant dish at home. This recipe features zesty lime marinated chicken breasts topped with a creamy salsa ranch sauce, melted cheese, and served with traditional toppings.

Ingredients

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  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup ranch dressing
  • 1/4 cup salsa (mild or medium)
  • 1 cup shredded Colby Jack or Monterey Jack cheese
  • For Serving: Crushed tortilla strips, pico de gallo, Mexican rice

Instructions

  1. Prepare the chicken marinade by whisking together the lime juice, olive oil, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
  2. Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are coated. Seal and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours.
  3. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish.
  4. Remove the chicken from the marinade and place it in the prepared baking dish. Discard the remaining marinade.
  5. Bake the chicken for 18 to 22 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  6. While the chicken bakes, prepare the topping by mixing the ranch dressing and salsa together in a small bowl. This is your creamy salsa ranch sauce.
  7. Once the chicken is cooked through, remove the dish from the oven. Spoon the salsa ranch mixture evenly over each chicken breast.
  8. Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the sauce layer.
  9. Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 3 to 5 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
  10. Remove from the oven. Serve the Fiesta Lime Chicken immediately over a bed of Mexican rice, topped with crushed tortilla strips and fresh pico de gallo.

Notes

  • You can grill the marinated chicken instead of baking for a smokier flavor. Grill over medium-high heat until cooked through, then top with sauce and cheese and briefly place under the broiler to melt the cheese.
  • For a quick weeknight meal, use a store-bought salsa ranch dressing if you prefer not to mix your own.
  • This recipe pairs well with a side of black beans or a simple green salad.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://devourdish.com/fiesta-lime-chicken-recipe/