This Cilantro Lime Chicken is a zesty delight that brings a burst of flavor to your dinner table. With fresh cilantro and tangy lime, it’s juicy and refreshing!
Making this chicken is so easy that I can whip it up on any busy night. Serve it with rice or tacos, and you’ll be smiling. Trust me, the whole family will love it! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I love using skinless and boneless chicken thighs for their juiciness and flavor. However, chicken breasts work well too if you prefer leaner meat. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, consider marinating and grilling portobello mushrooms instead.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro brings a vibrant flavor to this dish. If you’re not a fan of cilantro, parsley can be a great substitute, though it has a milder taste. You might even try mint for a unique twist.
Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice is the best, as it adds brightness and acidity. If limes aren’t available, you can use lemon juice in a pinch, but it will give a slightly different flavor.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is my go-to for its rich taste, but feel free to use any light cooking oil, such as avocado oil or even sesame oil for a hint of nutty flavor.
How Can I Ensure My Chicken Is Juicy and Flavored Well?
The marinade is crucial for flavor and moisture. Make sure to combine the ingredients well and let the chicken soak for at least 30 minutes. I recommend 2-4 hours for maximum flavor absorption.
- In a bowl, mix cilantro, lime juice, olive oil, garlic, cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Ensure the chicken is fully coated with the marinade. Use your hands for an even coverage!
- Cover and refrigerate the chicken. This step is key to making the chicken flavorful and juicy.
When grilling, preheat your grill to ensure the chicken gets that nice char. And let the chicken rest after cooking; this keeps it juicy! A simple step, but it makes a big difference!
How to Make Cilantro Lime Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade:
- 2 lbs chicken thighs or breasts (skinless and boneless)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (plus more for garnish)
- 1/4 cup lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lime wedges for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for preparation, plus a minimum of 30 minutes to marinate the chicken. If you have extra time, letting it sit for 2-4 hours will enhance the flavors even more. The cooking itself takes around 15 minutes. In total, you can expect to spend about 45 minutes to 1 hour enjoying this tasty dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
Start by grabbing a large bowl. In it, combine the chopped cilantro, lime juice, olive oil, minced garlic, ground cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until it’s well blended to create a flavorful marinade!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Next, add the chicken to the marinade. Make sure each piece is fully coated with the delicious marinade. Cover the bowl with cling film or a lid, and pop it in the fridge. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes—if you can leave it for 2-4 hours, that’s even better!
3. Grill the Chicken:
Once the marinating time is up, it’s time to cook! Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Take the chicken out of the fridge and remove it from the marinade, shaking off any excess. Place the chicken on the grill, making sure the grill is nice and hot.
4. Cook Until Perfect:
Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side. You want to see a nice char, and most importantly, ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). This tells you it’s safe to eat!
5. Let It Rest and Serve:
When the chicken is done, take it off the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps keep it juicy! After resting, slice the chicken. Serve it up with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro and some lime wedges on the side. Enjoy your delicious Cilantro Lime Chicken!
Can I Use Different Cuts of Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While this recipe calls for boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts, you can use other cuts like drumsticks or wings. Just adjust the cooking time as needed; darker meats may take a bit longer to cook through.
How Do I Store Leftover Cilantro Lime Chicken?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a skillet over medium heat or microwave it until warmed. For best results, add a splash of lime juice to keep it moist!
Can I Make the Marinade Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the marinade a day in advance! Mix all the marinade ingredients, store it in an airtight container in the fridge, and just add the chicken right before cooking. This helps save time when you’re ready to grill!
Is There a Substitute for Fresh Cilantro?
If you’re not a fan of cilantro, you can substitute it with fresh parsley for a different but still fresh flavor. Basil or green onions can also work in a pinch, just remember to adjust to your taste as they have different flavor profiles.
