Looking for a vibrant and flavorful dish that will make your taste buds dance? This cilantro lime chicken is just the recipe you need. It’s perfect for summer barbecues, weeknight dinners, or meal prep. The fresh cilantro and zesty lime create a refreshing marinade that infuses the chicken with incredible flavor. Plus, it’s easy to make, and you probably have most of the ingredients at home.
Imagine biting into juicy, tender chicken that’s bursting with the bright, fresh flavors of cilantro and lime. This dish is not only delicious but also a healthy option for those looking to enjoy a light meal. Serve it with rice, in tacos, or on a salad for a delightful experience. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this dish that feels fancy but is effortlessly simple to prepare.
Flavorful Cilantro Lime Chicken
This cilantro lime chicken stands out with its vibrant flavor profile, enhanced by a marinade that includes fresh cilantro, zesty lime juice, and aromatic garlic.
The combination of these ingredients creates a lively taste that not only excites the palate but also complements the succulent chicken beautifully.
Grilling locks in moisture, ensuring each bite is juicy and tender, making it a fantastic choice for gatherings or quiet dinners alike.
Preparing the Marinade
To achieve that irresistible flavor, start by preparing the marinade.
Mix together fresh cilantro, lime juice, minced garlic, and olive oil in a bowl.
This mixture serves as the base that will coat the chicken, ensuring it absorbs all those delightful flavors.
Marinating the Chicken
Once your marinade is ready, it’s time to bring the chicken into the mix.
Place the chicken breasts in a zip-top bag or a shallow dish, pouring the marinade over them.
Seal the bag or cover the dish and let it chill in the refrigerator. A marinating time of at least 30 minutes will allow the flavors to penetrate, but for a more robust taste, consider marinating for up to 4 hours.
Grilling to Perfection
When you’re ready to grill, preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off before placing it on the grill.
Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, aiming for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure it’s cooked through.
Serving Suggestions
After grilling, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing.
This step helps retain juiciness, making each piece tender and flavorful.
Consider serving it alongside a variety of sides such as colorful grilled vegetables, rice, or even in tacos for a delightful meal.
The Perfect Summer Dish
This cilantro lime chicken is an excellent choice for summer barbecues, offering a refreshing and light option that’s sure to please.
The vibrant colors and enticing aroma will draw everyone to the table, making it a centerpiece of any gathering.
With minimal prep and cook time, it’s a dish that balances convenience and flavor, perfect for those warm evenings spent outdoors.
Flavorful Cilantro Lime Chicken
This cilantro lime chicken is marinated in a delightful mixture of fresh cilantro, lime juice, garlic, and olive oil, creating a bright and zesty flavor profile. The chicken is grilled to perfection, resulting in a juicy, succulent dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup lime juice (about 2-3 limes)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together the chopped cilantro, lime juice, minced garlic, olive oil, cumin, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a zip-top bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it’s well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for more flavor.
- Grill the Chicken: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the leftover marinade. Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the chicken is cooked through.
- Rest and Serve: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve with your choice of sides such as rice, grilled vegetables, or in tacos.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Marinate Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 220kcal
- Fat: 10g
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
