Grilled Tequila-Lime Chicken with Grilled Asparagus

Chicken is such a great protein for marinades.  You can really play around with flavors to transform a plain piece of meat into something out of this world.  This tequila lime chicken did just that.  With a little zing from the tequila, zestiness of the lime and a kick from the adobo sauce, this dish is the perfect summer recipe.

How to make Grilled Tequila-Lime Chicken with Grilled Asparagus

Ingredients  (Servings: 4)

• 1/4 cup tequila or white vinegar
• 2 teaspoons lime zest
• 1/2 cup fresh lime juice
• 2 medium garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon chipotle pepper canned in adobo sauce, minced, plus 2 tablespoons adobo sauce
• 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, fat discarded
• nonstick cooking spray
• 3 bunches asparagus spears, trimmed
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, divided
• 2 tablespoons canola oil or corn oil

Directions:

1. In small bowl, stir tequila, lime zest, lime juice, garlic, chipotle pepper and adobo sauce. Pour into large resealable plastic bag. Add chicken and seal bag tightly; turn bag to coat. Refrigerate 2-12 hours.
2. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Lightly spray grates with nonstick cooking spray.
3. In large dish, sprinkle asparagus with salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper. Drizzle with oil. Turn asparagus over to coat.
4. Remove chicken from marinade. Discard marinade and wipe most of it off chicken. Sprinkle chicken with remaining pepper.
5. place the marinated chicken on direct heat for about 5 minutes per side to get a nice char on the skin.
6. Next, move the chicken to the indirect zone and let it finish grilling for about 15-20 minutes or until the internal temp of the thighs reach 165 degrees.
7. Transfer to plate and cover with aluminum foil.
8. Place asparagus on grill, facing opposite direction of grates. Grill 7 minutes, or until tender crisp.
9. Serve asparagus with chicken.

Note: Use boneless, skinless breasts for this tequila lime chicken recipe. Thighs will also work if you prefer dark meat, but you will need to increase the cooking time by a few minutes. 

How do I store leftovers? Leftover chicken is the best the next day! Once the chicken has cooled, store it in an airtight container and keep it in the fridge. I’d eat within 2-3 days for the best flavor and results – and be sure to reheat it all the way! 

Recipe courtesy of the American Heart Association