This Cilantro Lime Chicken is zesty and full of flavor! Juicy chicken marinated in fresh lime juice and cilantro makes it a tasty choice for any meal.
Cooking this dish always brightens my day. I love serving it with rice and veggies for a colorful plate that’s simple and satisfying. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Chicken breasts offer a lean option, but chicken thighs are juicier and richer in flavor. Feel free to use bone-in parts if you prefer, just adjust the cooking time.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a bright flavor. If you’re not a fan, use parsley for a milder taste. Dried cilantro works too, but fresh is always best.
Limes: Fresh lime juice is a must for that zing. If limes aren’t available, lemons or vinegar can add acidity, though the flavor will change a bit. Lime zest is also key for extra flavor.
Spices: Cumin and paprika give a nice warm flavor. If you’re looking for something different, try taco seasoning or chili powder instead.
Olive Oil: This helps to manage heat while cooking. For a different flavor, avocado oil or even coconut oil can be used.
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken Is Perfectly Grilled?
Getting grilled chicken just right can be tricky! Here are some tips to ensure your chicken is juicy and flavorful:
- Marinate: Letting chicken sit in the marinade for at least 30 minutes (ideally a few hours) helps it absorb flavors and remain tender.
- Preheat: Make sure your grill is properly preheated; this seals the chicken and prevents sticking.
- Don’t flip too soon: Wait for good grill marks before flipping. This usually takes about 6-7 minutes per side.
- Check doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for safety and juiciness.
- Resting time: Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes post-cooking. This helps the juices redistribute, leading to a more flavorful bite!
How to Make Cilantro Lime Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 2 limes
- Zest of 1 lime
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
For Serving:
- Lime wedges
- Extra cilantro, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and at least 30 minutes to marinate the chicken. If you have time for more flavor, marinating for 2-4 hours is great! Grilling will take an additional 15 minutes. So, overall, plan for about 45-60 minutes, including marinating time.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, mix together the lime juice, lime zest, minced garlic, chopped cilantro, olive oil, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything well until it’s nicely combined. This will be your flavorful marinade.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Take your chicken breasts or thighs and place them in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure it’s all well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish, then pop it in the refrigerator. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, but if you can, let it sit for 2-4 hours for even nuttier flavors!
3. Grill the Chicken:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Make sure it’s hot before you start grilling. Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking. Take the marinated chicken out of the fridge, discard the marinade, and place the chicken on the grill. Cook it for about 6-7 minutes on one side until nice grill marks form.
4. Flip and Finish Cooking:
Flip the chicken over and grill for another 5-7 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Make sure the chicken is fully cooked through before taking it off the grill.
5. Let It Rest and Serve:
Once the chicken is done, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps seal in all those tasty juices. When you’re ready to serve, garnish the chicken with extra chopped cilantro and some lime wedges on the side. Enjoy your delicious cilantro lime chicken!
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great alternative and will add a slightly richer flavor to the dish. Just ensure they are boneless and skinless to keep the recipe consistent. Cooking time may be similar, but always check for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure they’re fully cooked.
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Lime Juice?
If you don’t have fresh lime juice, you can use bottled lime juice as a substitute. However, fresh lime juice tends to have a brighter flavor. If you do use bottled juice, use about 2 tablespoons and taste the marinade before adding more, as it can be stronger in taste.
Can I Marinate the Chicken Overnight?
Yes, marinating the chicken overnight is actually a great idea! It allows the flavors to penetrate the meat more deeply. Just be sure to store it in the refrigerator, and consider using a slightly less acidic marinade (less lime juice) if marinating for over 6 hours to prevent the chicken from becoming too tenderized.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight if frozen, then warm in the microwave or on the stove until heated through without drying it out.
