This Cilantro Lime Chicken is bright and zesty! It’s made with juicy chicken marinated in fresh lime juice and chopped cilantro for a tasty burst of flavor.
You can grill or bake it, making it perfect for any meal. I love serving it with rice or in tacos! Yum! Who doesn’t love an easy, flavorful dish? 🌮
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: I love using boneless, skinless chicken thighs for their juicy texture and flavor. But if you prefer, boneless, skinless chicken breasts work too, though they may need careful cooking to avoid drying out.
Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice is ideal for that zesty kick. If you’re in a pinch, bottled lime juice can work, but I recommend using fresh if you can for better flavor.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro really brightens this dish. If you’re not a fan of cilantro, parsley can be a good alternative, though it will change the overall taste.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic brings great flavor, but pre-minced garlic or garlic powder can substitute in a hurry. Be cautious with amounts, as they can be stronger.
How Do I Marinate Chicken for Maximum Flavor?
Marinating chicken is key to infusing it with flavor. Here’s how I do it to ensure the chicken turns out delicious and juicy:
- Combine all marinade ingredients in a bowl.
- Use a resealable bag or shallow dish to coat the chicken thoroughly.
- Let it marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes; for best results, aim for 2-4 hours.
This way, the chicken absorbs all those tasty flavors. Just remember to discard the marinade before grilling to keep it safe!
How to Make Cilantro Lime Chicken?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lime wedges for garnish
- Additional cilantro for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious cilantro lime chicken recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and at least 30 minutes to marinate. Then, you will need about 15 minutes to cook the chicken. In total, you’ll spend around 55 minutes from start to finish, with the marinating time being flexible.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the fresh lime juice, olive oil, chopped cilantro, minced garlic, cumin, chili powder, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. This marinade is where all the flavor comes from, so mix it well!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Place the chicken thighs in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the prepared marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece is nicely coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and pop it in the refrigerator. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, but if you have time, 2-4 hours will give it even more flavor!
3. Grill the Chicken:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you’re using a grill pan, heat it on the stove over medium-high heat. Take the chicken out of the marinade (discard the marinade) and place it on the grill. Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and has those lovely grill marks.
4. Let It Rest and Serve:
Once the chicken is cooked to perfection, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps keep it juicy. Serve the chicken topped with extra cilantro and lime wedges on the side. Now, dig in and enjoy your flavorful cilantro lime chicken!
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Absolutely! You can substitute chicken breasts for thighs; just keep in mind that breasts are leaner, so they may dry out if cooked too long. Aim for a cooking time of 5-6 minutes on each side to avoid overcooking.
How Long Can I Marinate the Chicken?
You can marinate the chicken for up to 24 hours for the best flavor. If you’re short on time, a minimum of 30 minutes is still effective, but longer is always better for maximizing the flavor!
What Should I Do with Leftover Chicken?
Store any leftover cilantro lime chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can enjoy it cold in salads or sandwiches or reheat it gently in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Can I Freeze the Marinated Chicken?
Yes! You can freeze the marinated chicken before cooking. Just place the chicken with the marinade in a resealable plastic bag, remove as much air as possible, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before cooking.
