Description
Cilantro Lime Chicken is a vibrant, zesty dish made with chicken marinated in lime juice, cilantro, garlic, and spices, then grilled, baked, or pan-seared until juicy and flavorful. It’s fresh, versatile, and perfect for tacos, rice bowls, or salads.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
- 1 tsp lime zest
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Optional: 1/2 tsp chili flakes or 1 small jalapeño, minced
Instructions
- In a bowl, whisk together lime juice, zest, olive oil, garlic, cilantro, cumin, salt, and pepper. Add chili flakes or jalapeño if using.
- Place chicken in a resealable bag or shallow dish. Pour marinade over chicken, seal, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (up to 4 hours).
- Preheat a grill, skillet, or oven to medium-high heat.
- Remove chicken from marinade and cook as follows: Grill 5–6 minutes per side, skillet 5–7 minutes per side, or oven-bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Let chicken rest for 5 minutes, then slice. Garnish with extra cilantro and lime wedges before serving.
Notes
Fresh lime juice and cilantro give the best flavor—avoid dried substitutes.Don’t marinate longer than 12 hours, as lime juice can break down the chicken texture.Thighs are juicier, while breasts are leaner—choose based on preference.Serve with cilantro lime rice, black beans, or roasted veggies for a complete meal.For meal prep, cook and store up to 4 days in the fridge or freeze up to 2 months.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 620 mg
- Fat: 16 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 3 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 32 g
- Cholesterol: 100 mg
