This cilantro lime chicken is juicy, packed with flavor, and super easy to make! It combines fresh cilantro and zesty lime for a bright taste that’s hard to resist.
I whip this up for quick dinners, and it’s always a hit! It’s great on tacos, over rice, or just by itself. Plus, my kitchen smells amazing while it cooks! 🌿🍗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless chicken breasts are lean and perfect for this recipe. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can use chicken thighs, which are juicier. Just adjust the cooking time since thighs can take a bit longer to cook.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a bright flavor. If you’re not a fan of cilantro, parsley is a great alternative, though it gives a different taste. You could also skip it altogether for a milder flavor.
Lime Juice: Fresh limes are best for this recipe as they’re juicier and more fragrant. If you’re in a pinch, bottled lime juice can work, but the taste won’t be as vibrant. You could also use lemon juice for a different twist!
Spices: Cumin and chili powder add warmth and depth. If you prefer a bit more heat, consider adding cayenne pepper or swapping chili powder for a spicy version. If you want a milder option, omit the chili powder altogether.
Olive Oil: This oil keeps the chicken moist and flavorful. If you don’t have it, avocado oil or even vegetable oil can be used as substitutes, just skip any flavored oils.
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken is Perfectly Grilled?
Grilling chicken can be tricky, but here are some tips to ensure it turns out juicy and flavorful:
- Let the chicken marinate: Marinating for at least 1 hour helps the flavors penetrate deeply. If you have time, go for the full 4 hours.
- Preheat the grill: A hot grill is essential for good searing and flavor. Preheat it to medium-high for at least 10-15 minutes.
- Don’t overcrowd the grill: Make sure there’s space between the chicken pieces to ensure even cooking.
- Check internal temperature: Use a meat thermometer to make sure the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) for safety and doneness.
- Resting is key: After grilling, let the chicken rest for a few minutes. This helps retain the juices and keeps the meat tender.
How to Make Cilantro Lime Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
For the Marinade:
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 limes (juiced)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup olive oil
For Garnish:
- Lime wedges
- Additional cilantro, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Cilantro Lime Chicken will take about 10 minutes to prepare, plus at least 1 hour (or up to 4 hours) to marinate the chicken in the fridge. Then, you’ll need about 15 minutes for grilling. In total, you’re looking at around 25-30 minutes of active cooking time.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the lime juice, chopped cilantro, minced garlic, cumin, chili powder, salt, pepper, and olive oil until everything is well mixed. This marinade is packed with flavor, and your chicken will love it!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure it’s well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and pop it in the refrigerator. Let the chicken marinate for at least 1 hour to soak up all that tasty goodness. For an even better flavor, let it marinate for up to 4 hours.
3. Grill the Chicken:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Take the chicken out of the marinade and let the excess drip off. Grill the chicken breasts for about 6-7 minutes on each side. You want the chicken to reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and have those lovely char marks.
4. Rest and Serve:
Once grilled to perfection, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps keep it juicy! After resting, slice the chicken and serve it garnished with additional cilantro and lime wedges. Enjoy your flavorful, zesty meal!
Can I Use Other Cuts of Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While boneless, skinless chicken breasts are recommended, you can also use chicken thighs or drumsticks. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for all cuts.
What Can I Substitute for Fresh Cilantro?
If you’re not a fan of cilantro or don’t have it on hand, fresh parsley or basil can be good alternatives! They won’t replicate the exact taste, but they’ll add a nice freshness to the dish. Dried herbs can be used as well; just use about 1 tablespoon of dried herbs instead of fresh.
How Should I Store Leftover Cilantro Lime Chicken?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can enjoy it cold in salads or reheat it gently in the microwave or on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of lime juice to refresh the flavors if needed!
Can I Make the Marinade Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can prepare the marinade a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just make sure to give it a good whisk to recombine before using it to marinate the chicken. This can save you time on the day you plan to cook!
