Cafe Rio is a popular Mexican grill that is well-known for its delicious and flavorful dishes. One of their most sought-after recipes is their grilled chicken. With its juicy, tender, and smoky flavors, Cafe Rio grilled chicken is an absolute crowd-pleaser. If you’re looking to recreate this mouthwatering dish at home, we’ve got you covered with the best easy Cafe Rio grilled chicken recipe.

Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup Italian dressing
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 tablespoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together the Italian dressing, lime juice, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
2. Place the chicken breasts in a large ziplock bag and pour the marinade over them. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight for the best flavor.
3. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
4. Remove the chicken breasts from the marinade, allowing any excess marinade to drip off.
5. Grill the chicken breasts for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Make sure to flip them only once to ensure even cooking.
6. Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes.
7. Slice the grilled chicken breasts into thin strips, and they’re ready to serve.

Now that you have your tasty Cafe Rio grilled chicken, you can enjoy it in various dishes like burritos, tacos, salads, or even on its own. The smoky and tangy flavors of the marinade will make any meal irresistible.

Here are some commonly asked questions about the Cafe Rio grilled chicken recipe:

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use chicken thighs if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.

2. Can I use a different marinade?
While the Cafe Rio marinade is what gives this recipe its unique flavor, you can experiment with other marinades if you’d like. However, the taste may differ from the original Cafe Rio grilled chicken.

3. Can I cook the chicken in the oven instead of grilling?
Yes, if you don’t have a grill, you can bake the marinated chicken in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

4. How long can I marinate the chicken?
For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours. However, you can marinate it overnight if you want the marinade to penetrate the chicken even more.

5. Can I freeze the grilled chicken?
Yes, you can freeze the grilled chicken for up to 3 months. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container or freezer bag.

6. What sides go well with Cafe Rio grilled chicken?
Cafe Rio-style rice, black beans, tortillas, guacamole, and pico de gallo are some popular sides that complement the grilled chicken perfectly.

7. Can I use the marinade for other meats or vegetables?
Certainly! The marinade works well with other proteins like steak, shrimp, or tofu, as well as vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or onions. Adjust the cooking time accordingly for the different ingredients.

Now that you have all the information you need, it’s time to fire up the grill and enjoy some delicious Cafe Rio grilled chicken at home. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this easy and flavorful recipe!