Cilantro Lime Chicken is a bright and zesty dish that’s full of flavor! Juicy chicken is marinated in a tasty mix of cilantro, lime juice, and spices—perfect for a quick dinner.
It’s super easy to make and smells amazing while cooking! I love serving it with rice or in tacos. You can’t go wrong with extra lime slices on top for that fresh kick! 🌿🍋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this recipe, but chicken thighs work well too! Thighs are juicier and may be more forgiving if overcooked. You could also use tofu for a vegetarian option.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro really brightens up the dish. If you’re not a fan of cilantro, try parsley or basil as substitutes. However, they’ll give a different flavor profile, so be aware of that!
Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice is best for that zesty kick. If you don’t have limes, you can use lemon juice in a pinch, but it will taste a bit different. Bottled lime juice can work, but fresh is always preferred.
Spices: Ground cumin and chili powder add warmth and depth of flavor. If you don’t have these spices, taco seasoning can be a great alternative, or even smoked paprika for a different twist.
How Do I Marinate Chicken for Maximum Flavor?
Marinating chicken is the key to infusing it with flavor. An ideal marination time is at least 1 hour, but overnight works best. This allows the chicken to soak in all those yummy flavors from the marinade.
- Whisk together the marinade ingredients in a bowl until well mixed.
- Use a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish to ensure every piece of chicken is coated. Press out as much air as possible when sealing the bag.
- Refrigerate and let it marinate. Don’t forget, if you’re short on time, even a quick 30-minute marinade will help improve the taste!
How to Make Cilantro Lime Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade and Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup lime juice (about 2 limes)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Lime wedges
- Fresh cilantro
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and at least 1 hour for marinating, but you can let it sit overnight for even more flavor! So, plan for approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes to 24 hours total.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
Start by whisking together the lime juice, olive oil, chopped cilantro, minced garlic, ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper in a medium bowl. This tasty marinade will infuse the chicken with zesty flavors!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Place the chicken breasts in a large resealable bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring every piece is well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and let it marinate in the refrigerator. For great flavor, aim for at least 1 hour or marinate overnight if you can.
3. Cook the Chicken:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill over medium-high heat. If you’re using a skillet instead, heat a little olive oil in the pan over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess drip off, and discard the marinade.
4. Grill or Sear:
Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until it’s cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). If cooking in a skillet, make sure each side is nicely browned and cooked through as well.
5. Rest and Serve:
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill or skillet and let it rest for 5 minutes. This step is important, as it allows the juices to settle. After resting, slice the chicken and serve it warm, garnished with extra fresh cilantro and lime wedges for a zesty finish.
Enjoy your fresh and zesty Cilantro Lime Chicken!
Can I Use Bone-In Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use bone-in chicken, but the cooking time will vary. Bone-in chicken typically takes longer to cook, so aim for about 10-12 minutes per side on the grill. Always ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safety.
What Can I Substitute for Fresh Cilantro?
If you’re not a fan of cilantro, you can substitute with fresh parsley or basil for a different flavor. Keep in mind that while the taste will be different, it will still enhance the dish nicely!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store leftover Cilantro Lime Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it in the microwave or on a skillet over medium heat. Adding a splash of lime juice will help retain its zesty flavor!
Can I Marinate the Chicken for Longer?
Marinating overnight is great for flavor, but avoid marinating for more than 24 hours as the acid in the marinade can start to break down the chicken too much, resulting in a mushy texture. Stick to 1-12 hours for best results!
