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Homemade Copycat Applebees Fiesta Lime Chicken: Better Than the Restaurant Version photo

Copycat Applebees Fiesta Lime Chicken: Better Than the Restaurant Version

This Copycat Applebees Fiesta Lime Chicken is bursting with flavor! Juicy grilled chicken topped with creamy ranch and zesty lime will wow your taste buds.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken:
  • 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts cut in half
  • 2 tablespoons lime juice
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1/3 cup water
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon pepper
  • 1/4 cup ranch dressing
  • 1/4 cup salsa
  • 1/4 cup sour cream
  • 1 teaspoon fresh cilantro chopped
  • 1 teaspoon lime zest
  • 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 4 slices Colby Jack cheese
For Serving:
  • Mexican rice
  • Pico de Gallo
  • Tortilla chips
  • Black beans

Equipment

  • Grill or grill pan
  • Mixing bowl
  • Meat thermometer
  • Spatula

Method
 

Preparation Steps:
  1. In a mixing bowl, combine the lime juice, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, honey, water, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk the ingredients together until well blended.
  2. Place the halved chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor.
  3. Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing excess marinade to drip off. Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. In the last minute of cooking, top each piece of chicken with a slice of Colby Jack cheese and close the grill lid to melt the cheese.
  4. While the chicken is grilling, mix together the ranch dressing, salsa, sour cream, fresh cilantro, and lime zest in a small bowl. This will serve as a creamy topping for your chicken.
  5. Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a couple of minutes. Serve the grilled chicken on a plate, topped with the ranch-salsa mixture. Accompany it with a side of Mexican rice, black beans, and tortilla chips for a complete meal. Don’t forget to garnish with extra cilantro and lime wedges if desired!

Notes

  • Don’t skip the marinating time; it’s crucial for flavor.
  • Avoid overcooking the chicken to prevent dryness.
  • Let the chicken rest before serving to retain its juices.
  • Use high-quality cheese for the best taste.