Cilantro Lime Chicken is a fresh and tasty dish that’s full of flavor! The zesty lime and bright cilantro work perfectly together, making each bite feel cheerful and vibrant.
I love how simple it is to make! Just marinate the chicken and grill it up. It’s a great option for a summer cookout or a quick weeknight dinner—you’ll want seconds!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: I recommend using boneless chicken thighs for easier grilling, but bone-in thighs can add extra flavor. You can also use chicken breasts if that’s what you have, but they might dry out more easily.
Olive Oil: This adds richness to the marinade. If you’re looking for a different flavor, you can substitute avocado oil or even melted coconut oil. Both work well in this recipe!
Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice is best for bright flavor, but bottled lime juice works in a pinch. You can also use lemon juice as a substitute, though it will change the flavor slightly.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a unique taste. If you’re not a fan, parsley can be a good alternative or even mint for a different twist!
Ground Cumin: This spice offers warmth and depth. If you’re out, coriander can be a substitute, but you’ll lose some of that earthy flavor.
How Can You Make Sure the Chicken is Juicy and Flavorful?
The key to juicy, flavorful chicken is all in the marinating and grilling process. Make sure to marinate the chicken long enough, even if it’s just 1 hour. For maximum flavor, aim for the full 8 hours.
- Whisk the marinade well to mix all flavors. The more uniform the marinade, the better the chicken!
- Remember to let excess marinade drip off before grilling. This prevents flare-ups on the grill.
- Always check the internal temperature of your chicken; 165°F (75°C) is your goal to ensure it’s safely cooked.
Letting the chicken rest after grilling is crucial. This allows juices to redistribute, keeping every bite moist!
How to Make Cilantro Lime Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade:
- 2 lbs chicken thighs (bone-in or boneless)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
For Serving:
- Lime wedges
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 15 minutes of prep time, plus at least 1 hour to marinate the chicken. Then you’ll need approximately 15 minutes to grill it. So, plan for around 1 hour and 30 minutes total, with more time if you choose to marinate longer for extra flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, fresh lime juice, minced garlic, chopped cilantro, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper. This will create a flavorful marinade for your chicken.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the chicken thighs to the bowl, making sure each piece is well-coated with the marinade. Once coated, cover the bowl and refrigerate it for at least 1 hour. If you have time, marinating for up to 8 hours will give your chicken even more flavor!
3. Preheat and Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat the grill to medium-high heat. If you’re using a grill pan, just preheat it on your stovetop. Take the chicken out of the marinade and let any excess drip off. You can discard the leftover marinade.
4. Grill the Chicken:
Place the chicken thighs on the grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side. You want them to have nice grill marks and be cooked all the way through, with an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
5. Rest and Serve:
Once the chicken is cooked, take it off the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps keep it juicy. Garnish with extra fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges. Enjoy your delicious Cilantro Lime Chicken!
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts can be used as a substitute. Just keep in mind that they may cook faster, so check for doneness around the 5-6 minute mark per side. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you like a bit of heat, consider adding chopped jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the marinade. You can also serve it with a spicy salsa or hot sauce on the side to amp up the flavor!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Cilantro Lime Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze leftovers for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Can I Prepare the Marinade in Advance?
Yes, you can! Prepare the marinade a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Just mix in the chicken when you’re ready to marinate; it stays fresh and flavorful!
