Cilantro Lime Chicken is a bright and zesty dish that’s perfect for any meal! Juicy chicken breasts are marinated in a mix of fresh cilantro, tangy lime juice, and spices.
This recipe is a winner for busy days. Just mix your marinade, let the chicken soak up those yummy flavors, and grill or bake for a tasty result. It’s like a fiesta on your plate! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Boneless, skinless thighs are great for grilling and staying juicy. If you’re looking for a healthier option, feel free to substitute with chicken breasts. They will cook quicker, so keep an eye on them!
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro gives a vibrant flavor. If you’re not a fan, you might try fresh parsley or mint as a milder substitute. Just remember that it will change the taste!
Lime Juice and Zest: Fresh lime juice and zest brighten up the dish. If limes are out of season, lemon juice can work as a substitute, but it will give a different flavor profile. You might miss that zesty hit!
Olive Oil: This helps to create a nice marinade base. You could swap it for avocados or canola oil if needed, but I find that good-quality extra virgin olive oil really elevates the dish.
Spices: Cumin and chili powder provide warmth and depth. If you like some heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper. On the flip side, you can leave the chili powder out for a milder taste.
How Do I Get the Chicken to Be Flavorful and Tender?
Marinating is essential for achieving great flavor and tenderness in chicken. For best results, follow these steps:
- Mix your marinade ingredients thoroughly and make sure they are evenly combined.
- Use a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish to allow for even coverage. This ensures every piece of chicken gets plenty of flavor!
- The longer you marinate (up to 4 hours), the more flavorful your chicken will be. Try to plan ahead.
After marinating, letting the chicken rest for a few minutes post-grill helps keep it juicy. This technique makes a noticeable difference in the final dish. Happy cooking!
How to Make Cilantro Lime Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Juice of 2 limes
- Zest of 1 lime
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lime wedges, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes for preparation, plus at least 30 minutes to marinate in the refrigerator. After that, grilling will take about 15 minutes. In total, you can enjoy this dish in around 1 hour, depending on how long you marinate the chicken!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the chopped cilantro, olive oil, lime juice, lime zest, minced garlic, ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. This mixture will give your chicken a delicious flavor, perfect for grilling!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Place the chicken thighs in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it’s well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish, and marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for even more flavor. The longer, the better!
3. Grill the Chicken:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, remove the chicken from the marinade and discard any leftover marinade. Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side until it’s cooked through and has nice grill marks. You’re looking for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
4. Let it 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 chopped cilantro and lime wedges before serving. Enjoy your delicious Cilantro Lime Chicken!
Can I Use Bone-In Chicken Thighs Instead?
Yes, you can use bone-in chicken thighs! Just be aware that they may take a bit longer to cook, approximately 8-10 minutes per side. Make sure to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure they are fully cooked.
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Cilantro?
If fresh cilantro is not available, you can substitute it with fresh parsley for a different flavor. If you’re looking for a bit more of that cilantro flavor, consider using 1 teaspoon of ground coriander as an alternative spice. Just keep in mind that the taste will be slightly different!
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftover Cilantro Lime Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results, reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through, but be careful not to overcook it to avoid dryness.
Can I Bake the Chicken Instead of Grilling?
Absolutely! You can bake the marinated chicken in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). This method is great for keeping the chicken juicy!
