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Cilantro Lime Chicken Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 3.9 from 24 reviews
  • Author: admin
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes (plus marinating time)
  • Cook Time: 12 minutes
  • Total Time: 22 minutes (plus marinating time)
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

This Cilantro Lime Chicken recipe features juicy, marinated chicken thighs or breasts infused with fresh lime juice, vibrant cilantro, and aromatic spices. Perfectly grilled or pan-cooked, it offers a flavorful and healthy dinner option inspired by Mexican cuisine. Ideal for meal prep, tacos, salads, or rice bowls, this dish is quick to prepare and packed with protein.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Marinade

  • 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
  • 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Garnishes (optional)

  • Lime wedges
  • Extra chopped cilantro

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Marinade: In a medium bowl or zip-top bag, combine the fresh lime juice, olive oil, chopped cilantro, minced garlic, ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to blend all the flavors.
  2. Marinate the Chicken: Add the boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts to the marinade. Stir or seal the bag, ensuring all pieces are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 8 hours to let the flavors deeply infuse the chicken.
  3. Heat the Cooking Surface: Preheat a grill or a skillet over medium-high heat until hot. This ensures a nice sear and proper cooking of the chicken.
  4. Cook the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting excess drip off. Place the chicken on the prepared grill or skillet. Cook for 5 to 6 minutes per side, flipping once, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the chicken is fully cooked and juicy.
  5. Rest and Serve: Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and let it rest for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute. Slice as desired and serve garnished with extra cilantro and lime wedges, alongside rice, salad, or tortillas.

Notes

  • This recipe is excellent for meal prep, and the cooked chicken works beautifully over rice bowls, in tacos, or atop salads.
  • If fresh limes aren’t available, you can substitute fresh lemon juice for a slightly different but still delicious flavor.

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Find it online: https://flavorfuldailymeals.com/cilantro-lime-chicken-recipe/