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Cilantro Lime Chicken

Cilantro Lime Chicken


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  • Author: Lina
  • Total Time: 40 minutes (including marinade time)
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

Cilantro Lime Chicken is a bright, zesty, and juicy dish combining fresh cilantro, tangy lime, and tender chicken for a flavorful, quick, and satisfying meal. Perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or versatile enough to include in salads, wraps, and more.


Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 1.5 to 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs

Marinade

  • 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon honey or agave syrup
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together freshly squeezed lime juice, chopped cilantro, minced garlic, olive oil, honey, ground cumin, salt, and pepper. This mixture will infuse the chicken with that signature tangy, herbaceous flavor.
  2. Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts or thighs in a sealable bag or shallow dish, then pour the marinade over the top. Seal or cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes—ideally 2 hours—to allow the flavors to penetrate.
  3. Cook the Chicken: Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting excess drip off, and cook for 5-7 minutes per side or until fully cooked and golden brown on the outside. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
  4. Rest and Serve: Once cooked, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes to lock in juices. Garnish with extra fresh cilantro and lime wedges before serving.

Notes

  • Use fresh lime juice for a brighter, more natural flavor than bottled.
  • Do not overcook the chicken; cook just until the internal temperature reaches 165°F to keep it juicy.
  • Marinate longer (up to 24 hours) for more intense flavor and tenderness.
  • Pat the chicken dry before cooking to achieve better browning and caramelization.
  • Save leftover marinade and reduce it over heat to make a delicious sauce.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 12-14 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Pan-frying or Grilling
  • Cuisine: Mexican-inspired

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 chicken breast (approx. 6 oz)
  • Calories: 280 kcal
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 400 mg
  • Fat: 12 g
  • Saturated Fat: 2 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 6 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 35 g
  • Cholesterol: 85 mg