Some dinners just stick with you—not because they’re complicated, but because they bring a little spark to an otherwise ordinary evening. That’s exactly what happened the first time I made this Cilantro Lime Chicken. The moment the garlic and lime hit the pan, the aroma filled the kitchen and made me pause, reminding me how much a meal can brighten the day.
One evening, after a long stretch of work and errands, the idea of something fresh but fuss-free felt like just what I needed. As the chicken sizzled, the tangy lime mingled with the earthy cilantro, promising a flavor punch that felt like a mini celebration. Sitting down to eat, the juicy chicken pulled apart easily, each bite bursting with zest and warmth. It was simple, fast, and full of character—a reminder that even the busiest nights deserve a little flavor and care.
- Bright, fresh flavors from lime and cilantro bring a lively twist to classic grilled chicken.
- Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight meals.
- Juicy, tender chicken breasts that stay flavorful and moist with minimal effort.
- Versatile enough to pair with a variety of sides, from salads to rice bowls.
- A marinade that doubles as a quick sauce, so there’s no extra cleanup.
If you’re wondering about making it ahead or saving leftovers, this chicken holds its flavor beautifully and reheats well without drying out. It’s the kind of recipe that fits easily into a busy schedule but still feels like a treat.
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Cilantro Lime Chicken
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4
Description
A flavorful and zesty Cilantro Lime Chicken recipe featuring juicy chicken breasts marinated in fresh lime juice, garlic, and cilantro. Perfect for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 ounces each)
1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
In a medium bowl, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, minced garlic, chopped cilantro, ground cumin, chili powder, 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 each piece is well coated.
Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, 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 marinade.
Grill the chicken breasts for 6 to 7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the chicken is cooked through.
Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
Garnish with additional chopped cilantro and lime wedges if desired, and serve.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
FAQ
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? Absolutely. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.
How long should I marinate the chicken? At least 30 minutes is great, but up to 2 hours allows deeper flavor infusion without breaking down the meat.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free? Yes! There are no dairy ingredients, so it’s naturally dairy-free.
Is the chicken spicy? It has a mild kick from chili powder but nothing overwhelming—perfect for those who like a hint of warmth.
What sides complement this dish best? Think simple: fresh salads, steamed rice, or grilled veggies all pair wonderfully.
Next time you need a meal that feels fresh and satisfying without hours in the kitchen, this Cilantro Lime Chicken will be waiting to deliver. It’s easy to make, full of personality, and a dish you’ll want on repeat.