Easy Applebee's Fiesta Lime Chicken Copycat

Jump to Recipe

If you’ve ever sat in an Applebee’s booth, fork in hand, and wished you could bring that zingy, cheesy goodness home—today’s your lucky day, friend. This Applebee’s Fiesta Lime Chicken Copycat recipe delivers all the bold flavors of your favorite chain restaurant, without the waitstaff or mystery ingredients.

Perfect for busy weeknights, backyard BBQs, or simply impressing the heck out of your family (without breaking a sweat), this dish brings restaurant-style magic straight to your dinner table. And yes—that creamy, spicy dressing? It’s here, too!

Why You’ll Love This Applebee’s Fiesta Lime Chicken Copycat

Let’s be real—some nights call for more than just chicken and rice. You want flavor that pops, cheese that melts like a dream, and just enough crunch to keep things fun. That’s where this recipe shines. It’s:

Zesty and flavorful, thanks to the lime and smoky marinade
Comforting and cheesy (hi, melted Colby Jack 👋)
Easy enough for a Tuesday, impressive enough for Saturday company
Made with pantry-friendly ingredients (no fancy gadgets needed!)

Whether you’re feeding picky eaters, party guests, or just your own craving, this copycat recipe is here to win hearts and taste buds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s your simple grocery list. Most of it’s probably already hanging out in your pantry or fridge!

For the Marinade:

1 cup water
1/3 cup teriyaki sauce
1/2 cup lime juice (fresh is best!)
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon tequila (optional but fun 😉)
1 teaspoon liquid smoke
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger

For the Dressing:

1/4 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup sour cream
2 tablespoons chunky, spicy salsa
1 tablespoon milk
1 teaspoon Cajun blackened spice mix
1/4 teaspoon dried parsley
1/4 teaspoon hot sauce
1/8 teaspoon dried dill weed

For the Chicken:

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup shredded Colby-Monterey Jack cheese
2 cups corn chips, crushed (think Fritos or tortilla chips!)

How to Make Applebee’s Fiesta Lime Chicken Copycat

Here’s how you recreate this restaurant favorite without needing a culinary degree (or a to-go bag).

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a large bowl, whisk together all the marinade ingredients. Add your chicken and coat well. Cover and marinate in the fridge for at least 2 hours—overnight if you’ve got the time (or the foresight… no judgment if not).

Step 2: Make the Dressing

Mix all dressing ingredients in a bowl until smooth. Cover and refrigerate. (This stuff is gold—don’t be surprised if you start slathering it on sandwiches too.)

Step 3: Grill It Up

Preheat your grill to 375–450°F. Grill the marinated chicken breasts for 3–5 minutes per side, or until the internal temp hits 165°F. If you don’t have a grill, a stovetop grill pan or even a cast iron skillet will do the trick.

Step 4: Dress and Broil

Once the chicken is cooked, brush it generously with the dressing. Sprinkle that glorious Colby-Jack cheese on top and broil until bubbly and melty. Keep an eye on it—you want gooey, not charred.

Step 5: Serve and Celebrate

Place each piece of chicken on a bed of crushed corn chips or serve the chips on the side for dipping and scooping. Bonus points if you garnish with extra lime wedges or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro.

Aneta’s Tip: Let the Marinade Work Its Magic

This marinade is the heart of the flavor—it’s where the “fiesta” happens. If you’re tight on time, 2 hours will still do the trick, but letting the chicken soak overnight turns it from tasty to unforgettable. Plus, it means dinner practically makes itself the next day!

Oh—and don’t skip the liquid smoke. It gives that grilled, restaurant-style depth without needing a smoker in your backyard.

From My Kitchen to Yours

This Applebee’s Fiesta Lime Chicken Copycat recipe became a family favorite when my youngest declared it “better than the real thing”—with a mouth full of cheesy chicken, no less. It’s now our go-to for Friday nights when we want something exciting but don’t feel like changing out of pajamas (you feel me?).

It’s also a hit at potlucks and casual get-togethers—just slice the chicken into strips, serve it on a big platter with chips and dressing on the side, and watch it vanish.

Sliced Applebee’s Fiesta Lime Chicken Copycat served with white rice, fresh tomatoes, lime, and cilantro in a black bowl.

FAQs About Applebee’s Fiesta Lime Chicken

Can I make this without a grill?

Absolutely. A stovetop grill pan or skillet works great. Just make sure to sear each side nicely and check that the chicken hits 165°F internally.

Can I substitute the tequila?

Of course! You can skip it entirely or add a splash of orange juice for a hint of sweetness.

How do I store leftovers?

Store cooked chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave, and save leftover dressing for tacos or sandwiches!

What can I use instead of Colby-Jack cheese?

Cheddar works great, or try a Mexican blend for extra spice.

Conclusion

Whether you’re recreating a restaurant favorite or just in the mood for something a little extra, this Applebee’s Fiesta Lime Chicken Copycat is a flavor-packed crowd-pleaser. It’s tangy, creamy, and crunchy all in one bite—and honestly, it might just make your kitchen your new favorite “table for two.”

Loved this recipe? Don’t keep it a secret—leave a review and let me know how it turned out!
Your feedback helps others (and totally makes my day). 💛🍗🌶️

More Chicken Recipes You’ll Love

Still craving that bold, flavor-packed chicken experience? You’re in for a treat. Here are some other reader-favorite recipes that pair perfectly with the vibe of this Applebee’s Fiesta Lime Chicken Copycat. Whether you’re firing up the grill again or looking for another zesty kick, these dishes won’t disappoint:

For a smoky and fiery twist, try this juicy and irresistible Blackened Chicken and Sweet Potato Bowls—a power-packed combo that’s perfect for weeknight dinners.
Take your grill game to the next level with Grilled Mango Chicken—tropical, tangy, and a total crowd-pleaser.
Craving something with that spicy-sweet balance? You’ll love the crunch and kick in these Crispy Bang Bang Chicken bites.
And if you’re all about those fresh Mediterranean flavors, this easy Dump and Bake Chicken Tzatziki Casserole is your next dinner winner—minimal effort, maximum flavor.

Exploring more of these dishes not only spices up your dinner rotation but also supports our Chicken Magic community. Click around, cook often, and don’t forget to leave a review on your favorites! 🍗✨