Description
Cilantro Lime Chicken is a zesty, vibrant dish that features juicy chicken breasts marinated in a fresh blend of lime juice, garlic, and cilantro. The bright citrus and herb combination adds a refreshing twist, making this a perfect choice for grilling, pan-searing, or baking. Ideal for tacos, rice bowls, or a light summer dinner.
Ingredients
For the marinade and chicken:
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons lime juice (freshly squeezed)
1 teaspoon lime zest
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon ground cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
Instructions
1 In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, lime zest, minced garlic, ground cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir in the chopped cilantro.
2 Place the chicken breasts in a resealable bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it’s well coated. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for deeper flavor.
3 Preheat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess drip off. Cook the chicken for 6-7 minutes per side or until fully cooked and slightly charred on the edges.
4 Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after cooking. This helps retain its juices.
5 Slice the chicken and serve with extra lime wedges and chopped cilantro. Pairs well with rice, grilled corn, or in tacos with avocado and salsa.
Notes
For added flavor, reserve a tablespoon of the marinade (before adding the raw chicken) to drizzle over the cooked chicken. This recipe is also great for meal prep—just grill a batch and use it throughout the week in wraps, salads, or bowls.