🌟 Cilantro Lime Chicken Recipe – Bursting with Fresh Flavor!

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Craving a simple, flavorful, and juicy chicken recipe that’s ready in no time? Cilantro Lime Chicken is exactly what you need!
Packed with the tanginess of fresh lime, the herbaceous kick of cilantro, and perfectly seasoned chicken, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Whether you’re grilling it outdoors, baking it in the oven, or searing it in a skillet, this versatile chicken is perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prepping, or your next BBQ party. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free, low-carb, and keto-friendly!

🔧 Recipe Preparation Equipment

You’ll need:

  • Mixing bowl for marinade
  • Whisk or fork
  • Ziplock bag or container for marinating
  • Grill pan, outdoor grill, or skillet
  • Tongs
  • Meat thermometer (optional but helpful)

🛒 Ingredients

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice (about 2 limes)
  • 2 teaspoons lime zest
  • 3 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon honey (optional for a touch of sweetness)
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional for heat)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

🍽️ How to Make Easy Cilantro Lime Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, lime zest, chopped cilantro, minced garlic, cumin, paprika, honey (if using), chili powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken breasts into a ziplock bag or container. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for maximum flavor. (Avoid marinating too long—acid from the lime can start to “cook” the chicken.)

Step 3: Grill or Sear the Chicken

Heat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Lightly oil the surface to prevent sticking. Remove the chicken from the marinade (discard any leftover marinade) and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Step 4: Rest the Chicken

Remove the chicken from heat and let it rest for about 5 minutes to retain its juices.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Garnish with extra fresh cilantro and lime wedges. Serve hot!

🌈 Variations

  • Spicy Cilantro Lime Chicken: Add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the marinade for extra heat.
  • Cilantro Lime Chicken Thighs: Use juicy chicken thighs for a more flavorful option.
  • Baked Cilantro Lime Chicken: Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes instead of grilling.
  • Sheet Pan Version: Add bell peppers and onions to the pan for a full meal!
  • Cilantro Lime Chicken Tacos: Shred the cooked chicken and serve in tortillas with slaw!

🧑‍🍳 Cooking Notes

  • Avoid Over-marinating: More than 2-3 hours in acidic marinade can make chicken rubbery.
  • Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh lime juice and cilantro make all the difference!
  • Temperature Check: Always cook chicken to an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

🍴 Serving Suggestions

  • Serve with Mexican rice, cauliflower rice, or grilled veggies.
  • Slice it over a green salad or stuff it into burritos, wraps, or quesadillas.
  • Pair it with a refreshing drink like watermelon juice or limeade.

💡 Helpful Tips

  • Double the marinade: Save half for drizzling over the cooked chicken!
  • Meal prep: Make a large batch for easy lunches all week.
  • Use a Meat Pounder: If your chicken breasts are thick, pound them slightly for even cooking.

⏱️ Prep and Cooking Time

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Marinating Time: 30 minutes to 2 hours
  • Cooking Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 55 minutes (including marination)

📊 Nutritional Information (Approximate Per Serving)

  • Calories: 270
  • Protein: 30g
  • Fat: 15g
  • Carbs: 3g
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 450mg

❓ FAQs

Q: Can I use bottled lime juice?

Fresh lime juice is strongly recommended for the best flavor, but in a pinch, bottled juice will work.

Q: How long can I store leftovers?

Store cooked cilantro lime chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

Q: Can I freeze cilantro lime chicken?

Yes! Freeze the uncooked, marinated chicken for up to 2 months. Thaw and cook as directed.

✅ Conclusion

Cilantro Lime Chicken is one of those magical recipes that’s incredibly simple yet bursting with flavor. Perfect for a busy weeknight, a weekend BBQ, or meal prepping ahead, this recipe will quickly become a household favorite.
Serve it with your favorite sides, stuff it into tacos, or slice it over salads—the possibilities are endless!

Fresh, vibrant, and full of zest, this cilantro lime chicken will have everyone asking for seconds!

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