This Cilantro Lime Chicken is bursting with fresh flavors! It’s made with tender chicken, bright lime juice, and fragrant cilantro. Perfect for a quick dinner or backyard BBQ!
I love how easy it is to whip up this dish. Just marinate, grill, and enjoy! Plus, your kitchen will smell amazing. Who can resist a tasty meal that smells so good? 🌿
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this dish, but thighs work beautifully too. Thighs are juicier and add depth to the flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter option, consider using fish fillets like tilapia or shrimp!
Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice is key to achieving that bright, zesty flavor. If you don’t have fresh limes, bottled lime juice will do in a pinch, but it’s less vibrant. You can also use lemon juice as a substitute for a different citrus twist!
Fresh Cilantro: Cilantro is the star herb here, bringing freshness to the dish. If you’re not a fan of cilantro, parsley is a good alternative, though the flavor won’t be the same. You can also try fresh mint for a lighter variation.
Olive Oil: I love using extra virgin olive oil for its rich flavor. However, avocado oil can be a great substitute if olive oil isn’t on hand. It’s also excellent for high-heat cooking!
How Can I Make Sure My Chicken is Juicy and Flavorful?
To keep your chicken tender and packed with flavor, marinating is essential. Aim to marinate for at least an hour, but overnight works best. This gives all the spices and lime juice time to soak in.
- Mix your marinade well, and make sure to coat the chicken thoroughly.
- If grilling, let the chicken sit at room temp for about 20 minutes before cooking. This helps it cook evenly.
- Ensure you preheat your grill properly. It helps achieve those gorgeous grill marks and prevents sticking.
After grilling, letting the chicken rest for a few minutes is crucial. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in perfect, juicy chicken. Enjoy your meal!
How to Make Cilantro Lime Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 2-3 limes)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Lime wedges and extra cilantro for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 15 minutes of prep time, plus at least 1 hour for marinating (or up to overnight if you want even more flavor!). Cooking on the grill takes about 15 minutes. So, total time will be around 1 hour and 30 minutes if you marinate for the minimum time.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
First, grab a medium bowl and whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, chopped cilantro, minced garlic, cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. This marinade is going to pack your chicken with delicious flavor!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Next, place the chicken breasts in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure it’s well coated all over. If you’re using a bag, seal it tightly, or just cover the dish. Pop it in the fridge and let it marinate for at least 1 hour or, for the best taste, overnight!
3. Grill the Chicken:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you’re using an outdoor grill, oil the grates to help prevent the chicken from sticking. Once heated, take the chicken out of the marinade and throw away the leftover marinade—don’t use it for anything else because it has raw chicken juices. Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until its internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and you see those lovely grill marks.
4. Rest and Serve:
After grilling, take the chicken off the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps keep it juicy! Serve your Cilantro Lime Chicken garnished with lime wedges and some extra cilantro if you like. Enjoy your flavorful dish!
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great alternative as they remain juicy and flavorful during grilling. Just adjust the cooking time slightly because thighs may take an extra minute or two to reach the same internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Can I Marinate the Chicken for Longer Than Overnight?
While marinating for up to 24 hours can intensify the flavor, be careful not to exceed that time! Marinades with citrus can start to break down the chicken, leading to a mushy texture. Stick to a maximum of 24 hours for best results.
How Should I Store Leftover Cilantro Lime Chicken?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze grilled chicken in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
What Can I Use Instead of Fresh Cilantro?
If cilantro isn’t your thing, you can substitute it with fresh parsley for a milder taste. Alternatively, you might try fresh mint or basil for a different flavor profile; just keep in mind it will change the taste of the dish!
