Description
This Cilantro Lime Chicken recipe is a zesty and flavorful dish that is perfect for a quick and easy meal. The combination of fresh cilantro, tangy lime, and savory spices creates a delicious marinade for juicy chicken breasts or thighs. Whether grilled or cooked on the stovetop, this dish is versatile and can be served in various ways, from tacos to salads.
Ingredients
Scale
Marinade:
- 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- juice of 2 limes
- zest of 1 lime
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- ½ cup fresh cilantro (chopped)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Mix Marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, lime zest, garlic, chopped cilantro, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Marinate Chicken: Place the chicken in a zip-top bag or shallow dish, pour the marinade over it, seal, and refrigerate 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 until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the chicken is charred. Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve with lime wedges and cilantro.
Notes
- This chicken is versatile and can be used in various dishes like tacos, salads, or over rice.
- For extra spice, consider adding cayenne or jalapeño to the marinade.
- Leftovers make great meal prep options for busy days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes (plus marinating time)
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling or Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 33g
- Cholesterol: 90mg