This Thai lime chicken recipe brings a burst of zesty and spicy flavors to your dinner table. The combination of lime juice, garlic, and chili flakes creates a tantalizing marinade that infuses the chicken breasts with a delightful tang and a hint of heat. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a weekend feast, this dish is sure to impress.
Some ingredients in this recipe might not be staples in every kitchen. For instance, lime is essential for its juice and zest, providing the signature tangy flavor. Soy sauce adds a savory depth, while chili flakes bring the heat. Make sure to pick these up at the supermarket if you don't already have them at home.

Ingredients For Thai Lime Chicken Recipe
Chicken breasts: The main protein of the dish, providing a lean and tender base.
Olive oil: Used for marinating and cooking, adding a rich flavor and helping to keep the chicken moist.
Soy sauce: Adds a savory umami flavor to the marinade.
Garlic: Minced garlic infuses the chicken with a robust, aromatic flavor.
Lime: Both the juice and zest are used to give a fresh, tangy taste.
Honey: Adds a touch of sweetness to balance the acidity and heat.
Chili flakes: Provides a spicy kick to the dish.
Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the marinade.
Black pepper: Adds a mild heat and depth to the seasoning.
Technique Tip for This Recipe
When marinating the chicken breasts, make sure to score the surface lightly with a knife. This allows the marinade to penetrate deeper into the meat, resulting in more flavorful and tender chicken.
Suggested Side Dishes
Alternative Ingredients
Chicken breasts - Substitute with chicken thighs: Chicken thighs are juicier and more flavorful, making them a great alternative to chicken breasts.
Olive oil - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil adds a subtle tropical flavor that complements the Thai lime profile.
Soy sauce - Substitute with tamari: Tamari is a gluten-free alternative to soy sauce with a similar umami flavor.
Minced garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used in a pinch, though it lacks the fresh, robust flavor of minced garlic.
Lime - Substitute with lemon: Lemon can provide a similar acidity and brightness, though it has a slightly different flavor profile.
Honey - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup offers a similar sweetness with a unique flavor twist.
Chili flakes - Substitute with cayenne pepper: Cayenne pepper provides a similar heat level and can be used in smaller quantities.
Salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add both saltiness and umami, enhancing the overall flavor.
Black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a milder flavor and can be used to maintain the dish's heat without altering the color.
Alternative Recipes Similar to This Dish
How to Store or Freeze This Dish
- Allow the chicken breasts to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make the chicken soggy.
- Place the cooled chicken in an airtight container or wrap it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This helps maintain its moisture and flavor.
- Store the marinated chicken in the refrigerator if you plan to consume it within 3-4 days. Make sure to label the container with the date to keep track of its freshness.
- For longer storage, freeze the Thai Lime Chicken. Place the chicken in a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
- When ready to use, thaw the frozen chicken in the refrigerator overnight. This slow thawing process helps retain the texture and flavor of the chicken.
- Reheat the chicken breasts in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. Add a splash of olive oil or a bit of lime juice to refresh the flavors.
- If you prefer, you can also microwave the chicken on a microwave-safe plate, covered with a damp paper towel to keep it moist. Heat in short intervals, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.
- Garnish with fresh lime zest or a sprinkle of chili flakes before serving to revive the vibrant flavors of the dish.
How to Reheat Leftovers
Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken breasts in an oven-safe dish, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to keep them moist. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and heat for about 20 minutes, or until the chicken is warmed through.
Stovetop Method: Slice the chicken breasts into thinner pieces for even reheating. Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of olive oil. Add the chicken slices and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until heated through. You can add a bit of lime juice or chicken broth to enhance the flavor and moisture.
Microwave Method: Place the chicken breasts on a microwave-safe plate. Cover with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out. Microwave on medium power for 2-3 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure even heating. Add a splash of lime juice before serving to refresh the flavors.
Air Fryer Method: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken breasts in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is warmed through and slightly crispy on the outside.
Sous Vide Method: If you have a sous vide machine, set it to 140°F (60°C). Place the chicken breasts in a vacuum-sealed bag or a resealable bag using the water displacement method. Submerge the bag in the water bath and heat for about 45 minutes. This method ensures the chicken remains juicy and flavorful.
Best Tools for This Recipe
Mixing bowl: To combine the olive oil, soy sauce, garlic, lime juice, lime zest, honey, chili flakes, salt, and pepper for the marinade.
Whisk: To thoroughly mix the marinade ingredients together.
Tongs: To handle and turn the chicken breasts while marinating and cooking.
Skillet: To cook the marinated chicken breasts over medium heat.
Spatula: To help flip the chicken breasts in the skillet.
Measuring spoons: To measure out the olive oil, soy sauce, honey, and chili flakes accurately.
Zester: To zest the lime for the marinade.
Juicer: To extract the juice from the lime.
Cutting board: To provide a surface for mincing the garlic and preparing the lime.
Knife: To mince the garlic and cut the lime for juicing and zesting.
Serving plate: To present the cooked chicken breasts.
Grater: Optional, for additional lime zest garnish if desired.
How to Save Time on This Recipe
Prepare the marinade ahead: Mix the olive oil, soy sauce, garlic, lime juice, lime zest, honey, and chili flakes in advance and store in the fridge.
Use a meat tenderizer: Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness for quicker and more uniform cooking.
Preheat the skillet: Ensure the skillet is hot before adding the chicken to reduce cooking time.
Batch cook: Double the recipe and cook extra chicken breasts to use in salads or sandwiches later in the week.

Thai Lime Chicken
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 pieces Chicken Breasts
- 2 tablespoon Olive Oil
- 1 tablespoon Soy Sauce
- 2 cloves Garlic minced
- 1 piece Lime juiced and zested
- 1 teaspoon Honey
- 1 teaspoon Chili Flakes
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black Pepper
Instructions
- 1. In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, soy sauce, garlic, lime juice, lime zest, honey, chili flakes, salt, and pepper.
- 2. Add chicken breasts to the bowl and coat them well with the marinade. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes.
- 3. Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken breasts and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked.
- 4. Serve hot, garnished with extra lime zest if desired.
Nutritional Value
Keywords
Suggested Appetizers and Desserts for This Dish
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