Description
Cilantro Lime Chicken is a flavorful, tangy dish featuring tender chicken marinated in a zesty cilantro-lime mixture, perfect for grilling, baking, or pan-searing.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional, for sweetness)
- 1 tablespoon lime zest (optional, for extra flavor)
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, cilantro, garlic, cumin, chili powder, salt, pepper, honey, and lime zest (if using).
- Place the chicken breasts in a large resealable plastic bag or shallow dish, then pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece is well coated.
- Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for maximum flavor.
- Preheat your grill, skillet, or oven (375°F/190°C) to cook the chicken.
- Grill: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Grill the chicken for 6-7 minutes per side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Skillet: Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through.
- Oven: Place the marinated chicken breasts on a baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until fully cooked.
- Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with additional cilantro and lime wedges, if desired.
Notes
- For extra flavor, top the chicken with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of cheese before serving.
- This marinade works well for chicken thighs or other cuts of chicken as well.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, add a chopped jalapeño to the marinade for heat.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 70mg