Cilantro Lime Chicken
Cilantro Lime Chicken is a vibrant, zesty dish that elevates any meal with its fresh flavors and aromatic ingredients. Perfect for summer barbecues or cozy family dinners, this recipe features juicy chicken breasts marinated in a tangy lime-cilantro blend, making it a crowd-pleaser. Whether grilled, baked, or pan-seared, this dish is versatile enough to pair beautifully with various sides, ensuring it’s a hit at any gathering.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling/Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 1 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice (about 4 limes)
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine lime juice, minced garlic, chopped cilantro, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Add chicken breasts and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- For grilling, preheat to medium-high heat (400°F). For baking, preheat oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Grill each breast for 6-7 minutes per side until fully cooked (juices run clear). If baking, cook for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve with grilled veggies or a fresh salad.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast (170g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
Keywords: Marinating overnight enhances flavor significantly. Swap lime juice with lemon for a different twist or add diced jalapeños for spice. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days and reheat gently in a skillet.