Chipotle-Lime Grilled Chicken
Peer reviewed by UK recipe editorsAuthored by UK recipe editorsOriginally published 17 Jan 2026
Meets Patient’s editorial guidelines
- DownloadDownload
- Share
- Language
- Discussion
This vibrant chipotle-lime grilled chicken offers a delicious balance of smoky heat and zesty citrus. Using skinless chicken thighs ensures the meat remains succulent and tender on the barbecue, while the marinade provides a punchy depth of flavour without the need for heavy fats or refined sugars. It is an excellent choice for a fresh, protein-rich main course that feels indulgent yet remains naturally light.
As a diabetes-friendly recipe, this dish focuses on lean protein and heart-healthy olive oil, making it a nutritious staple for your summer grilling repertoire. Serve the chicken alongside a crisp green salad or some charred courgettes for a wholesome, low-carbohydrate meal that the whole family will enjoy. The simple 15-minute marinade makes it perfect for quick weekday dinners or relaxed weekend entertaining.
In this article:
Continue reading below
Ingredients for Chipotle-Lime Grilled Chicken
60ml fresh lime juice
60ml olive oil
2 1/2 tablespoons chipotle Tabasco
3/4 teaspoons salt
6 large skinless boneless chicken thighs (1.1kg total)
2 teaspoons mild honey
How to make Chipotle-Lime Grilled Chicken
Prepare grill for cooking over direct heat with medium-hot charcoal (moderate heat for gas).
While coals are lighting, stir together lime juice, oil, Tabasco, and salt in a liquid-measuring cup. Put chicken in a large sealable bag and add 80ml marinade (reserve remainder in cup). Seal bag, forcing out excess air, and marinate chicken at room temperature, about 15 minutes. Stir honey into remaining marinade until dissolved to make sauce.
Grill chicken (discarding marinade in bag) on lightly oiled grill rack, covered only if using a gas grill, turning chicken over occasionally and moving it to avoid flare-ups if necessary, until just cooked through, 8 to 10 minutes total.
Brush both sides of chicken with some of reserved sauce, then continue to grill, turning over once, until lightly browned, about 1 minute more. Serve chicken drizzled with remaining sauce.
Disclaimer
While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.
Article history
The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.
17 Jan 2026 | Originally published
Authored by:
UK recipe editors
Peer reviewed by
UK recipe editors

Ask, share, connect.
Browse discussions, ask questions, and share experiences across hundreds of health topics.

Feeling unwell?
Assess your symptoms online for free
Sign up to the Patient newsletter
Your weekly dose of clear, trustworthy health advice - written to help you feel informed, confident and in control.
By subscribing you accept our Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe at any time. We never sell your data.