Cilantro Lime Chicken is more than just a meal; it’s an explosion of flavor that brightens any dinner table. This dish is juicy, tangy, and bursting with fresh flavor, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or leisurely weekends. With a zesty marinade of lime juice, garlic, and cilantro, this recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, satisfying both the palate and the clock. Whether grilled, baked, or pan-seared, this chicken is bound to become a family favorite, perfect for tacos, salads, or served alongside rice.

Why You’ll Love This Cilantro Lime Chicken

This recipe is a true winner for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly quick to prepare—ready in just 30 minutes. Second, it’s versatile; you can enjoy it grilled, baked, or even in tacos! The marinade not only enhances flavor but also tenderizes the chicken, ensuring that each bite is juicy and satisfying. Whether you’re looking for a healthy cilantro lime chicken recipe or a quick weeknight dinner, this dish fits the bill. Plus, with its gluten-free credentials, it can cater to diverse dietary needs. The vibrant flavors are sure to impress anyone at your dinner table.

Ingredients for Cilantro Lime Chicken

Gather these items:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1½ lbs)
• ½ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• ¼ cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon honey (optional, for balance)
• 1 teaspoon lime zest
• Fresh cilantro leaves and lime wedges, for garnish

How to Make Cilantro Lime Chicken Step-by-Step

1. Step 1: In a medium bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, cilantro, garlic, cumin, salt, pepper, and honey (if using). Taste and adjust seasoning as desired.
2. Step 2: Place chicken breasts in a large resealable bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, coating each piece evenly. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 8 hours for maximum flavor.
3. Step 3: Preheat the grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade and discard excess liquid.
4. Step 4: Grill or sear the chicken for 5–6 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
5. Step 5: Alternatively, bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes until fully cooked.
6. Step 6: Let chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges before serving.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Cilantro Lime Chicken

Keep these in mind:

• Marinating the chicken for longer enhances the flavor, so consider marinating overnight if you can.
• This recipe is versatile; you can grill, bake, or pan-sear the chicken to suit your preference.
• Adjust seasoning to your taste; adding more lime juice can brighten up the flavor even more.
• For a delicious twist, try adding some red pepper flakes for a spicy cilantro lime chicken variation.

Best Ways to Serve Cilantro Lime Chicken

Looking for serving ideas? Here are a few:

• Serve it over a bed of rice for a complete meal, creating a flavorful cilantro lime chicken and rice dish.
• Slice it up for cilantro lime chicken tacos, topped with fresh avocado and salsa.
• Mix it into a salad for a refreshing cilantro lime chicken salad that’s perfect for lunch.

How to Store and Reheat Cilantro Lime Chicken

To store your leftover cilantro lime chicken, place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, be sure to warm it gently to maintain its juiciness. You can reheat it in the microwave or a skillet until heated through. This makes it a great option for cilantro lime chicken for meal prep, as you can enjoy it throughout the week.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cilantro Lime Chicken

What’s the secret to perfect Cilantro Lime Chicken?

The secret lies in marinating the chicken long enough to absorb all the flavors. The combination of lime and cilantro not only enhances taste but also tenderizes the meat. Using fresh ingredients makes a noticeable difference.

Can I make Cilantro Lime Chicken ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken the night before and keep it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook. This prep can save you time on a busy weeknight.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Cilantro Lime Chicken?

To avoid dry chicken, don’t overcook it. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C) just right. Also, letting it rest before slicing helps retain moisture.

Variations of Cilantro Lime Chicken You Can Try

Here are some delicious variations:

• For a baked cilantro lime chicken, simply follow the baking instructions provided above.
• Add some chipotle peppers to the marinade for a spicy cilantro lime chicken twist.
• Try skewering the chicken to make cilantro lime chicken skewers perfect for grilling.
• Mix in seasonal vegetables for a complete meal that’s healthy and satisfying.

Cilantro Lime Chicken is not just a meal; it’s a culinary experience that brings joy to the table. Enjoy this zesty dish with your loved ones and watch it become a staple in your home.

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Cilantro Lime Chicken: Juicy and Zesty in 30 Minutes

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This Cilantro Lime Chicken is juicy, tangy, and bursting with fresh flavor.

• Author: Robert
• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Grilling, Baking, Pan-searing
• Cuisine: Mexican
• Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1½ lbs)
• ½ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• ¼ cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon honey (optional, for balance)
• 1 teaspoon lime zest
• Fresh cilantro leaves and lime wedges, for garnish

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Instructions

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, cilantro, garlic, cumin, salt, pepper, and honey (if using). Taste and adjust seasoning as desired.
2. Place chicken breasts in a large resealable bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, coating each piece evenly. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 8 hours for maximum flavor.
3. Preheat the grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade and discard excess liquid.
4. Grill or sear chicken for 5–6 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
5. Alternatively, bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes until fully cooked.
6. Let chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges before serving.

Notes

• Marinating the chicken for longer enhances the flavor.
• This recipe is versatile; you can grill, bake, or pan-sear the chicken.
• Adjust seasoning to your taste.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 500mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 1.5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 3g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 34g
• Cholesterol: 80mg