Description
Creamy Cilantro Lime Chicken is a zesty and comforting dish featuring tender chicken breasts simmered in a rich, lime-infused cream sauce with garlic and fresh cilantro. This one-pan meal is quick, flavorful, and perfect for any night of the week.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 3/4 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
- 1 tsp lime zest
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Optional: 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
- Optional: 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Season chicken on both sides with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 4–5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in chicken broth, scraping up browned bits from the pan. Let simmer for 1–2 minutes.
- Reduce heat to medium-low. Stir in heavy cream, lime juice, and lime zest. Simmer gently for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Add chopped cilantro and optional red pepper flakes or Parmesan. Stir to combine.
- Return chicken to the skillet, spoon sauce over top, and simmer for 2–3 minutes until heated through.
- Serve hot, garnished with extra cilantro and lime wedges if desired.
Notes
Use chicken thighs for a juicier option.Add red pepper flakes or jalapeños for a spicy variation.Substitute heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free version.For a richer sauce, stir in Parmesan cheese.Pairs well with rice, pasta, or roasted vegetables.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with sauce
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 145mg
