Description
Nothing says fresh and vibrant quite like a plate of Cilantro Lime Chicken. This dish brings together bright citrus and herb flavors with a touch of honey, garlic, and spices for a truly mouthwatering experience. Whether you’re craving a simple weeknight dinner or a zesty addition to your taco night, Cilantro Lime Chicken delivers with ease. It’s incredibly versatile, too—perfect for grilling, baking, or cooking on the stovetop. Pair it with rice, tuck it into tacos, or add it to a salad for a meal that feels like a mini-vacation in every bite.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts – A lean protein that absorbs the marinade beautifully.
- ¼ cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes) – Adds a burst of citrusy freshness.
- Zest of 1 lime – Enhances the lime flavor with a concentrated aroma.
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped – Provides a refreshing, slightly peppery taste.
- 3 tbsp olive oil – Helps the marinade penetrate the chicken, keeping it juicy.
- 3 garlic cloves, minced – Brings a depth of flavor and savory richness.
- 1 tsp honey or agave syrup – Adds a hint of sweetness, balancing the acidity of lime.
- 1 tsp ground cumin – Adds warmth and a slight earthiness.
- ½ tsp chili powder – Adds a mild kick, but feel free to adjust based on your spice preference.
- Salt and pepper, to taste – Brings out all the wonderful flavors
Instructions
- Make the Marinade:
Start by preparing your marinade, which will infuse the chicken with all that lovely cilantro-lime flavor. In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the lime juice, lime zest, chopped cilantro, olive oil, minced garlic, honey, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Take a moment to enjoy the aroma of the lime and cilantro as you mix; it’s a preview of the deliciousness to come. - Marinate the Chicken:
Place the chicken breasts in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. If you have the time, letting it marinate for up to 4 hours will intensify the flavors. Pro Tip: For an extra touch, set aside a few tablespoons of marinade (before adding it to the chicken) to drizzle over the cooked chicken. - Cook the Chicken:
Choose your preferred cooking method, based on your mood or kitchen setup:- Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the chicken on the grill and cook for about 5–7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). This method gives the chicken a slightly smoky flavor and beautiful grill marks.
- Stovetop: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add a little olive oil to the pan, then cook the chicken breasts for 6–7 minutes on each side until fully cooked. This is a quick and easy method that results in tender, juicy chicken.
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the marinated chicken in a baking dish and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Baking gives the chicken a wonderful, even cook and keeps it moist.
- Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish your chicken with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro and lime wedges. Serve with rice, in tacos, or sliced over a salad for a complete meal. For extra flair, try adding sliced avocado, a dollop of pico de gallo, or a sprinkle of crumbled queso fresco.