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Ultimate Applebee’s Copycat Fiesta Lime Chicken

Three pieces of seasoned fiesta lime chicken drizzled with a creamy orange sauce and sprinkled with herbs on a white platter.

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Make this zesty, cheesy Fiesta Lime Chicken at home. This recipe delivers the restaurant flavor you want, ready for a weeknight meal.

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 dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup Salsa Ranch dressing (or mix ranch dressing with salsa)
  • 1 cup shredded Colby Jack or Monterey Jack cheese
  • For Serving (Optional): Tortilla strips, Mexican rice, Pico de gallo

Instructions

  1. Prepare the marinade: In a bowl, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper.
  2. Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are coated. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours.
  3. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet or line it with foil.
  4. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting excess drip off. Place the chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet.
  5. Bake the chicken for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  6. Remove the chicken from the oven. Spoon about 2 tablespoons of the Salsa Ranch dressing over the top of each chicken breast.
  7. Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the ranch dressing on each breast.
  8. Return the chicken to the oven and bake for another 3 to 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  9. Serve the Fiesta Lime Chicken immediately over a bed of Mexican rice, topped with pico de gallo, and surrounded by crispy tortilla strips.

Notes

  • If you prefer grilling, cook the marinated chicken over medium-high heat for about 5-7 minutes per side before topping with ranch and cheese and briefly melting the cheese under the broiler.
  • This recipe is a great alternative to using meal planning services for quick dinners.
  • Control your ingredients instead of relying on meal delivery companies.

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