I never thought a quick dinner could feel so vibrant until I tried this Cilantro Lime Chicken. It’s one of those meals that sneaks up on you with fresh, lively flavors that brighten the whole evening. The tang of lime and the herbaceous punch of cilantro make every bite feel like a small celebration at home.
One evening last summer stands out. The grill was warm, the sun was dipping low, and the air was filled with the scent of garlic and citrus. As I flipped the chicken, the aroma pulled everyone outside, curious and hungry. Juicy and tender, each bite was a perfect mix of zest and comfort — that moment when you realize simple ingredients can create something memorable. It wasn’t just dinner; it was a gathering sparked by flavor.
- Bright, fresh flavors from lime and cilantro make this anything but ordinary.
- Marinating is fast and effortless, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Grilling adds a smoky char that complements the zesty marinade beautifully.
- Versatile enough for meal prep or a casual family dinner.
- Leftovers stay juicy and flavorful for days, making lunches or quick dinners a breeze.
If you’re worried about balancing bold flavors with ease, this recipe strikes that balance perfectly. The marinade infuses just enough punch without overwhelming, so every bite feels fresh and satisfying.
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Cilantro Lime Chicken
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4
Description
A flavorful and zesty Cilantro Lime Chicken recipe featuring juicy chicken breasts marinated in fresh lime juice, cilantro, and garlic, then grilled to perfection. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a tasty meal prep option.
Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 ounces each)
1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro leaves
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
In a medium bowl, whisk together lime juice, chopped cilantro, minced garlic, olive oil, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper to create the marinade.
Place the chicken breasts in a large resealable plastic bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are well coated.
Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes and up to 2 hours to allow the flavors to infuse.
Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the remaining marinade.
Grill the chicken breasts for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the chicken is cooked through.
Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
FAQ
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? Absolutely. Thighs are juicier and the marinade works just as well with them. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
How long should I marinate the chicken? At least 15 minutes will add good flavor, but marinating up to 2 hours deepens the zest and aroma.
What sides go well with this chicken? Think fresh salads, grilled veggies, or even a simple rice dish to soak up the juices.
Can I cook this indoors? Yes, a grill pan or skillet on medium-high heat works perfectly to get those charred grill marks.
Is this recipe freezer-friendly? While the chicken is best fresh, cooked leftovers can be frozen and reheated gently for convenience.
Give this recipe a try and see how it turns your routine dinner into something you look forward to. Save it, print it, and most importantly, enjoy every bright, juicy bite.