Applebee's Fiesta Lime Chicken

This vibrant Applebee's Fiesta Lime Chicken copycat recipe brings restaurant-quality flavor right to your kitchen. The tangy marinade infused with lime and subtle smokiness transforms ordinary chicken into a fiesta of flavors that pairs perfectly with melty cheese and crunchy corn chips.

I first made this recipe for a weekend gathering with friends, and it's become our go-to "special" dinner that feels indulgent without requiring professional skills. Even my pickiest eaters request this dish regularly!

Ingredients

• Boneless skinless chicken breasts provide the perfect canvas for the bold flavors to shine
• Teriyaki sauce adds umami depth and helps tenderize the meat
• Fresh lime juice brings brightness that cuts through the rich toppings
• Tequila contributes authentic Mexican flavor that evaporates during cooking
• Liquid smoke delivers that distinctive char-grilled taste even when cooking indoors
• Colby-Monterey Jack cheese melts beautifully while adding creamy richness
• Corn chips provide essential crunch and salty contrast to the creamy topping

Step-by-Step Instructions

Create the Marinade

Combine water, teriyaki sauce, lime juice, minced garlic, tequila, liquid smoke, salt and ground ginger in a large bowl. This flavor-packed marinade infuses the chicken with complexity while tenderizing the meat.

Marinate the Chicken

Submerge chicken breasts completely in the marinade, cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. For best results, occasionally turn the chicken to ensure even flavor distribution throughout the marinating time.

Prepare the Signature Dressing

Mix mayonnaise, sour cream, chunky salsa, milk, Cajun spice, parsley, hot sauce and dried dill in a separate bowl. This creamy, zesty topping is what gives the dish its distinctive Applebee's character. Refrigerate until needed to allow flavors to meld.

Grill the Chicken

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat between 375-450°F. Grill chicken breasts for 3-5 minutes per side until fully cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F. The high heat creates flavorful caramelization on the outside while keeping the inside juicy.

Apply the Finishing Touches

Generously brush the grilled chicken with your prepared dressing, then sprinkle with shredded Colby-Monterey Jack cheese. Transfer to a broiler to melt the cheese until bubbly and slightly golden, about 2-3 minutes.

Serve with Style

Place the finished chicken over a bed of crushed corn chips or serve with chips on the side. The contrast between warm, cheesy chicken and crispy chips creates the perfect textural experience.

Save This

The liquid smoke in this recipe is my secret weapon. I discovered its importance after making a batch without it once—the difference was immediately noticeable! That subtle smokiness is what truly elevates this from good to restaurant-quality delicious.

Make-Ahead Options

This recipe works beautifully for meal prep. You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance for even more flavor infusion. The dressing can also be made up to 3 days ahead and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply grill the chicken, add the toppings, and finish under the broiler for a quick weeknight meal that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen.

Indoor Cooking Alternative

No grill? No problem! This chicken adapts perfectly to indoor cooking methods. For stovetop preparation, heat a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat with a tablespoon of oil. Cook chicken breasts for about 6-7 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Alternatively, bake in a 375°F oven for 20-25 minutes before adding the toppings and finishing under the broiler. The marinade ensures the chicken remains flavorful regardless of cooking method.

Serving Suggestions

Transform this dish into a complete meal by serving it alongside cilantro-lime rice and black beans. For a lighter option, place the chicken over a bed of chopped romaine with diced tomatoes, avocado, and a squeeze of fresh lime juice for a hearty salad. Want to get creative? Slice the finished chicken and use it to fill warm flour tortillas with additional cheese and pico de gallo for incredible tacos that will disappear in minutes.

Common Queries

→ Can I bake this chicken instead of grilling?

Yes, you can bake the marinated chicken at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Add the sauce and cheese during the last 5 minutes of baking.

→ Is there a substitute for tequila in the marinade?

You can substitute the tequila with an equal amount of white vinegar, lime juice, or chicken broth. While you'll miss some of the authentic flavor, the dish will still be delicious.

→ How long can I marinate the chicken?

For best results, marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours and up to overnight. Avoid marinating longer than 24 hours as the acid in the lime juice can break down the meat too much and affect texture.

→ What sides pair well with Fiesta Lime Chicken?

This chicken pairs wonderfully with Mexican rice, black beans, grilled vegetables, a simple salad with cilantro-lime dressing, or warm tortillas to create a complete meal.

→ Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! The Cajun cream sauce can be prepared up to 2 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This actually allows the flavors to meld together better.

→ What can I use instead of Colby-Monterey Jack cheese?

You can substitute with other melting cheeses like cheddar, pepper jack for extra spice, or a Mexican cheese blend. Any good melting cheese will work well in this dish.