This Cilantro Lime Chicken is bursting with fresh flavors! Juicy chicken is marinated in a zesty mix of lime juice and bright cilantro, making it super tasty.
I love how simple this dish is—you just mix, marinate, and cook! It’s perfect for tacos or a light dinner, and the leftovers are amazing in salads too!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts give you tender meat that’s easy to grill. If you want a change, try using chicken thighs for added flavor and juiciness. They can be a bit richer in taste.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro is key for that bright flavor. If you’re not a fan, parsley can be a milder substitute. Just chop it finely to get a similar texture without the strong taste.
Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice is best for a zesty kick. If limes are out of season, lemon juice works in a pinch, though it changes the flavor a bit. Just use it sparingly to avoid overpowering the dish.
Spices: Ground cumin adds depth, while paprika offers a mild sweetness. You can swap cumin for chili powder for extra heat or use smoked paprika for a different twist. Both will still enhance your dish.
How Can I Get My Chicken to Stay Juicy on the Grill?
Grilling chicken can be tricky, but marinating it properly helps keep it juicy. The acid in the lime juice breaks down proteins, making the chicken tender. Here’s how to ensure perfect grilling:
- Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but not more than 4 hours to avoid it becoming too mushy.
- Preheat your grill well before placing the chicken on to achieve that nice sear.
- Use medium-high heat and cover the grill to keep the heat in, searing each side for about 6-7 minutes.
- Let the chicken rest after grilling for 5 minutes; this helps the juices redistribute.
How to Make Cilantro Lime Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup lime juice (about 2 limes)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Lime wedges (for serving)
- Extra cilantro (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and requires at least 30 minutes of marinating time. If you have a bit more time, marinating for up to 4 hours is great for extra flavor. Cooking on the grill will take around 12-14 minutes. So, from start to finish, you can expect about 50 minutes to enjoy this delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
Grab a medium-sized bowl and whisk together the chopped cilantro, lime juice, minced garlic, olive oil, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. This mix will create a delicious marinade for your chicken!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Place the chicken breasts into a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure to coat it well. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap and pop it in the fridge. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, but up to 4 hours is even better!
3. Grill the Chicken:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Take the chicken out of the marinade and throw away any leftover marinade. Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side. Keep an eye out for it to get nicely browned and be sure to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
4. Rest and Serve:
Once cooked, take the chicken off the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps keep it juicy! After resting, slice the chicken and serve it with lime wedges on the side. Don’t forget to sprinkle some extra cilantro on top for that fresh touch. Enjoy your cilantro lime chicken!
Can I Use Dried Cilantro Instead of Fresh?
While fresh cilantro is recommended for the best flavor, you can use dried cilantro in a pinch. Use about 1 tablespoon of dried cilantro as a substitute for 1/4 cup of fresh. Keep in mind that dried herbs have a more concentrated flavor, so adjust to taste!
What If I Don’t Have Lime Juice?
No lime juice? No problem! You can substitute it with lemon juice or even apple cider vinegar. However, lemon juice will give a slightly different flavor, so taste as you go to ensure it fits your preference.
Can I Marinate the Chicken Overnight?
Absolutely! Marinating the chicken overnight will enhance the flavor even more. Just make sure to store it in the refrigerator in a sealed bag or dish. However, avoid marinating for more than 24 hours, as the acid from the lime juice can make the chicken mushy.
How to Store Leftover Cilantro Lime Chicken?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage; just make sure to cool the chicken completely before freezing. To reheat, use the microwave or oven until warmed through, adding a splash of fresh lime juice to brighten the flavor.
