Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Grilled Applebee’s Fiesta Lime Chicken Copycat topped with creamy sauce, fresh pico de gallo, and lime slices on a black plate.

Easy Applebee’s Fiesta Lime Chicken Copycat


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

  • Author: Aneta
  • Total Time: 20 minutes (+ marinate time)
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

Bring restaurant flavor home with this Applebee’s Fiesta Lime Chicken Copycat—zesty grilled chicken topped with creamy dressing and fresh pico de gallo. It’s bold, comforting, and easy to make


Ingredients

Scale

For the Marinade:

  • 1 cup water

  • 1/3 cup teriyaki sauce

  • 1/2 cup lime juice

  • 3 garlic cloves, minced

  • 1 tsp tequila (optional)

  • 1 tsp liquid smoke

  • 1/2 tsp salt

  • 1/4 tsp ground ginger

For the Dressing:

  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise

  • 1/4 cup sour cream

  • 2 tbsp chunky, spicy salsa

  • 1 tbsp milk

  • 1 tsp Cajun blackened spice mix

  • 1/4 tsp dried parsley

  • 1/4 tsp hot sauce

  • 1/8 tsp dried dill weed

For the Chicken:

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts

  • 1 cup shredded Colby-Monterey Jack cheese

  • 2 cups crushed corn chips


Instructions

  1. In a bowl, whisk together all marinade ingredients. Add chicken, coat well, cover, and marinate for at least 2 hours (overnight is best).

  2. In another bowl, combine all dressing ingredients. Mix well, cover, and refrigerate.

  3. Preheat your grill to 375–450°F.

  4. Grill marinated chicken breasts for 3–5 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F.

  5. Brush grilled chicken with the dressing, then top with shredded cheese.

  6. Broil until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

  7. Serve over crushed corn chips or with chips on the side. Garnish with lime and fresh cilantro if desired.

Notes

No grill? A stovetop grill pan or cast iron skillet works just fine.
Liquid smoke adds that signature grilled flavor—don’t skip it if you can help it!
The dressing also doubles as a delicious dip or sandwich spread.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes (plus 2+ hours marinating)
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with toppings
  • Calories: 420 kcal
  • Sugar: 4 g
  • Sodium: 920 mg
  • Fat: 22 g
  • Saturated Fat: 7 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 16 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 38 g
  • Cholesterol: 110 mg