Name: Cilantro Lime Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Yield: 4
Ingredients: 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1/4 cup lime juice; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons minced fresh cilantro; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Cilantro Lime Chicken

Looking for a quick and delicious weeknight meal? Cilantro Lime Chicken is the perfect choice. This simple recipe combines the bright, zesty flavors of lime and cilantro with tender, juicy chicken. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to prepare and can be served with a variety of sides.

To make this dish, start by marinating the chicken breasts in a mixture of lime juice, olive oil, cilantro, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat and create a delicious marinade.

Once the chicken is marinated, grill or broil it until cooked through and slightly charred. The grilling or broiling adds a smoky flavor that complements the zesty marinade.

Serve the Cilantro Lime Chicken with your favorite sides, such as rice, quinoa, or roasted vegetables. For an extra kick of flavor, try serving it with a side of avocado salsa or a squeeze of fresh lime juice.

This recipe is not only delicious but also healthy. Chicken is a lean protein source, and the marinade is packed with nutrients like vitamin C from the lime juice and antioxidants from the cilantro. Plus, it’s a quick and easy meal to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

So why not give this recipe a try? You’ll be amazed at how simple it is to create a flavorful and satisfying meal right in your own kitchen.

Questions I often get asked about this recipe:

Can I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great alternative and often have more flavor. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as they might need a few extra minutes to cook through.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can! Marinate the chicken ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 hours. When you’re ready to cook, simply grill or broil it.

What can I serve with this dish?
This versatile recipe pairs well with many sides. Some popular options include rice, quinoa, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad. For a Mexican-inspired twist, try serving it with black beans and corn.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free soy sauce (if applicable) and avoid any gluten-containing ingredients in your sides.

What is the best way to store leftovers?
Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently in the microwave or on the stovetop.

What you need to make Cilantro Lime Chicken:

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts

1/4 cup lime juice

2 tablespoons olive oil

2 tablespoons minced fresh cilantro

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

How to make it:

Prepare the marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, cilantro, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

Marinate the chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a large zip-top bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken and make sure it is evenly coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours.

Cook the chicken: Preheat your grill or broiler. Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard any excess. Grill or broil the chicken for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through and slightly charred.

Serve: Serve the chicken hot with your favorite sides, such as rice, quinoa, or roasted vegetables.

Optional: For a zesty kick, serve the chicken with a side of avocado salsa or a squeeze of fresh lime juice.

Tips:

Don’t overcook the chicken. Overcooked chicken can be dry and tough. Cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Adjust the marinade to your taste. If you prefer a spicier flavor, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade. For a sweeter option, try adding a teaspoon of honey or agave nectar.

Experiment with different sides. This versatile recipe pairs well with many sides. Try serving it with grilled corn, black beans, or a fresh avocado salsa for a complete and flavorful meal.

Latest Reviews:

This Cilantro Lime Chicken recipe was a hit! The marinade was flavorful and the chicken was cooked to perfection. I served it with rice and roasted vegetables, and it was a delicious and satisfying meal. Duncan S.

I’ve tried several chicken recipes, but this one is definitely my favorite. The combination of flavors is spot on, and the chicken is so tender. I’ll definitely be making this again! Michelle P.

This recipe was easy to follow and the results were amazing. The chicken was juicy and full of flavor. I served it with a side of avocado salsa and it was a perfect summer dinner. John R.

Printable Recipe:

Before you print the recipe, could I ask you a favor? Please consider sharing this recipe on Facebook or pin to a group on Pinterest? This would really help us out. Thank you so much <3