Description
This Cilantro Lime Chicken recipe is a zesty and flavorful dish that is perfect for grilling. The combination of fresh lime juice, cilantro, and spices creates a delicious marinade for the chicken, resulting in juicy and tender meat with a hint of citrusy tang.
Ingredients
Chicken:
1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts,
Marinade:
¼ cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes), 2 tablespoons lime zest, ⅓ cup chopped fresh cilantro, 3 tablespoons olive oil, 3 garlic cloves (minced), 1 teaspoon ground cumin, 1 teaspoon chili powder, ½ teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare Marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together lime juice, lime zest, cilantro, olive oil, garlic, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken and toss to coat evenly.
- Marinate: Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 8 hours for deeper flavor.
- Cook Chicken: Preheat a grill, grill pan, or skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and cook for 5–7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the outside is nicely charred. Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- Serve: Serve with extra lime wedges and fresh cilantro. Great over rice, in tacos, or on a salad.
Notes
- This recipe works well with both chicken thighs and breasts, but thighs stay juicier on the grill.
- You can also bake the chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes if preferred.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes (plus marinating)
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling or Pan-Seared
- Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 390mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
