Applebee’s Fiesta Lime Chicken Recipe

Nothing brightens up a dinner table quite like the zesty, bold flavors of Applebee’s Fiesta Lime Chicken. This dish perfectly balances tangy lime, smoky undertones, and a lively Cajun kick that will have your taste buds dancing. From the juicy grilled chicken marinated in a tantalizing blend of teriyaki and tequila to the creamy, spicy dressing topped with melted cheese, Applebee’s Fiesta Lime Chicken brings a fiesta right to your home with every bite. Whether you’re craving a quick weeknight dinner or impressing guests at your next gathering, this recipe is a total winner you’ll want to bookmark.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple but essential to capture the vibrant flavors and textures that make Applebee’s Fiesta Lime Chicken so memorable. Each element plays a role—whether it’s the bright lime juice that adds a refreshing tang or the crunchy corn chips that provide the perfect contrast to the creamy dressing and melty cheese.

• Water: Acts as the base for the marinade, helping to blend all the flavors beautifully.
• Teriyaki sauce: Adds a sweet and savory depth that complements the lime’s acidity.
• Lime juice: Brings that signature tangy zest that wakes up the palate.
• Garlic cloves, minced: Imparts a robust flavor that enhances the marinade’s complexity.
• Tequila: Gives a subtle, smoky kick that elevates the chicken beyond basic grilled fare.
• Liquid smoke: Adds a smoky aroma and taste without needing a smoker.
• Salt: Essential for seasoning and balancing flavors.
• Ground ginger: Provides a hint of warmth and spice to the marinade.
• Mayonnaise: Base for the creamy dressing, adding richness and smooth texture.
• Sour cream: Brings tang and creaminess that lightens up the dressing.
• Chunky and spicy salsa: Offers bursts of heat and texture for excitement in every bite.
• Milk: Thins out the dressing to a perfect consistency for brushing and dipping.
• Cajun blackened spice mix: Infuses a bold, spicy character that’s signature to the dish.
• Dried parsley: Adds a mild herbal note and a splash of color.
• Hot sauce: Gives the dressing a subtle heat that wakes up the flavors.
• Dried dill weed: Offers a delicate hint of earthiness balancing the spice.
• Boneless, skinless chicken breast: The star protein that soaks up all those delicious flavors.
• Shredded Colby-Monterey Jack cheese: Melts beautifully, creating a gooey, savory topping.
• Corn chips, crushed: Adds a crunchy, salty base that brings terrific texture contrast.

How to Make Applebee’s Fiesta Lime Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

Start by mixing water, teriyaki sauce, lime juice, minced garlic, tequila, liquid smoke, salt, and ground ginger in a large bowl until well combined. This marinade is the flavor powerhouse that will infuse your chicken with tangy, smoky, and slightly sweet notes that make Applebee’s Fiesta Lime Chicken so irresistible.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken breasts in the marinade, making sure each piece is fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. This step is crucial because it allows the flavors to deeply penetrate the chicken, resulting in juicy, flavorful bites.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, chunky and spicy salsa, milk, Cajun blackened spice mix, dried parsley, hot sauce, and dried dill weed. This creamy, zesty dressing will not only bring a rich, spicy contrast to the grilled chicken but also help keep it moist and flavorful when applied after grilling. Cover and refrigerate until ready to use.

Step 4: Grill the Chicken

Preheat your grill to a medium-high heat, ideally between 375°F and 450°F (190-232°C). Grill the marinated chicken breasts for about 3-5 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). You want a nice char and grill marks without overcooking, so keep a close eye to maintain juicy tenderness.

Step 5: Add Dressing and Cheese

Once the chicken is grilled, brush the creamy spicy dressing generously over the breasts. Immediately top with shredded Colby-Monterey Jack cheese to create that irresistible gooey layer.

Step 6: Broil to Perfection

Place the chicken under a broiler for a few minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and just starting to brown. This final step adds a beautiful creamy crust that elevates the flavor and texture of Applebee’s Fiesta Lime Chicken.

Step 7: Serve Over Crushed Corn Chips

For the finishing touch, serve the chicken over a bed of crushed corn chips or alongside them for dipping. The salty crunch perfectly complements the creamy, spicy chicken and creates a festive, fun eating experience.

How to Serve Applebee’s Fiesta Lime Chicken

Garnishes

Fresh garnishes like chopped cilantro, thinly sliced green onions, or a squeeze of extra lime juice brighten the dish and add bursts of fresh flavor that contrast beautifully with the rich, cheesy chicken. These simple additions also add a pop of color that makes the dish feel like a true celebration.

Side Dishes

Applebee’s Fiesta Lime Chicken pairs wonderfully with light and complementary sides such as cilantro-lime rice, black bean salad, or a crisp garden salad. For a more indulgent spread, creamy mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables provide cozy balance to the lively chicken flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, slice the chicken and serve it inside warm tortillas with extra salsa and shredded lettuce to turn this into a fantastic fiesta-style taco night. Alternatively, serve it alongside guacamole and a bowl of corn salsa to make a colorful, festive platter that invites sharing and smiles.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The bold flavors of Applebee’s Fiesta Lime Chicken actually taste better the next day once the flavors have further melded.

Freezing

You can freeze cooked, cooled chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Make sure to separate portions with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to preserve texture and flavor.

Reheating

Reheat gently in the oven at 325°F (160°C) for 10-15 minutes until warmed through. Avoid microwaving if possible, as the cheese topping can become rubbery. A quick zap under the broiler afterward will revive that perfect bubbly finish.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add extra juiciness and a slightly richer flavor. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as thighs may take a bit longer to reach the safe internal temperature.

What can I substitute for tequila in the marinade?

If you don’t have tequila on hand, a splash of white wine or additional lime juice can work well as substitutes. The key is to maintain acidity and a bit of brightness in the marinade.

Is this recipe spicy?

Applebee’s Fiesta Lime Chicken offers a nice balance of spice from the Cajun seasoning and hot sauce in the dressing, but it’s not overwhelmingly hot. You can adjust the heat level by reducing or increasing the amount of hot sauce and salsa to suit your taste.

Can I make the dressing ahead of time?

Yes, the dressing can be made up to 2 days ahead and stored in the refrigerator. This actually helps the flavors meld together even more, making it taste even better when it’s time to use.

What’s the best way to crush corn chips?

Place the chips in a zip-top bag and gently crush them with a rolling pin or the bottom of a heavy pan. You want them in small, irregular pieces—not a fine powder—to add the perfect crunch and texture to the dish.

Final Thoughts

Applebee’s Fiesta Lime Chicken is truly a crowd-pleaser with its vibrant flavors, creamy textures, and satisfying crunch. It’s one of those recipes that’s just as fun to make as it is to savor, bringing the warmth and excitement of a fiesta to your kitchen anytime. Give it a try—the bright lime, smoky marinade, and melty cheese are sure to become a new favorite you’ll want to share again and again.

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