If you’re looking for a dish brimming with flavor and a touch of zest, this Cilantro Lime Chicken is an absolute winner. Infused with a marinade that envelops every piece of chicken in a vibrant blend of lime, garlic, and cilantro, it’s the perfect combination to take your taste buds on a tropical escape.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Bursting with Flavor: The combination of lime and cilantro infuses the chicken with an irresistible zest.
- Versatile Cooking Methods: Whether you prefer stove top, oven, or grill, this recipe has you covered.
- Simple Ingredients: With just a handful of fresh, vibrant ingredients, you can create a delicious meal.
- Healthy and Delicious: A light, refreshing dish perfect for a nourishing dinner.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering a few simple ingredients is all it takes to create this Cilantro Lime Chicken masterpiece. Each component plays a crucial role in delivering the dish’s bold and fresh flavor profile.
- Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs: These offer juicy and tender bites that perfectly absorb the marinade.
- Cilantro: This herb contributes a fresh, citrusy note that pairs beautifully with lime.
- Lime Zest and Juice: The zest adds depth and aromatic oils, while the juice gives that tangy zing.
- Garlic: Provides a pungent, savory flavor that complements the lime and cilantro.
- Cumin: Adds a warm, earthy undertone that enhances the overall taste.
- Olive Oil: Helps to create a rich marinade that clings to the chicken and adds moisture.
Variations
This Cilantro Lime Chicken recipe is incredibly flexible, allowing you to switch things up based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. It’s simple to adapt while ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
- Spicy Twist: Add a chopped jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the marinade for a spicy kick.
- Citrus Blend: Mix it up with lemon or orange juice and zest for a different citrus profile.
- Herb Variation: Swap cilantro for parsley or basil for a unique herbal taste.
How to Make Cilantro Lime Chicken
Step 1: Blend the Marinade
Start by adding cilantro, lime zest, lime juice, garlic, cumin, salt, black pepper, and olive oil to a blender. Pulse everything together until you have a smooth mixture that will envelop your chicken in flavor.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Place the chicken thighs in a bowl or a ziplock bag. Pour the marinade over them, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Let it marinate in the refrigerator for a minimum of 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor infusion.
Step 3: Cooking Methods
Choose your cooking method: for stovetop, heat a grill pan over medium-high; for oven, preheat to 375°F; for the grill, get it nice and hot. Cook the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F, ensuring it’s juicy and thoroughly cooked.
Pro Tips for Making Cilantro Lime Chicken
- Perfect Marinade Timing: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes. If you’re short on time, even a quick marinade will infuse some flavor, but longer is better.
- Achieving the Perfect Sear: When using the grill or stovetop, ensure the pan or grill is hot before adding the chicken, which helps to lock in juices and create a delicious crust.
- Herb Balance: Don’t overdo the cilantro if you’re not a big fan. Adjust the amount to suit your taste preferences while maintaining the dish’s essence.
- Temperature Check: Use a digital meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked just right without drying out.
How to Serve Cilantro Lime Chicken
Garnishes
Enhance your Cilantro Lime Chicken with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro leaves and lime wedges for a pop of color and flavor. These simple additions brighten up the dish visually and tastefully.
Side Dishes
Pair this chicken with side dishes like Mexican rice, a tangy corn salad, or creamy avocado slices. These complement the zesty lime and aromatic cilantro, creating a well-rounded meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For an eye-catching presentation, slice the cooked chicken and fan the pieces out over a bed of greens. Top with garnishes and a drizzle of any remaining marinade for added flavor and flair.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Cilantro Lime Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This keeps the chicken fresh and flavorful for easy meals throughout the week.
Freezing
For longer storage, place the cooked, cooled chicken in a freezer-safe bag and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating
Gently reheat the chicken on the stovetop over medium heat or in the oven at 350°F until warmed through. Avoid microwaving to prevent the chicken from drying out.
FAQs
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Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs for Cilantro Lime Chicken?
Yes, chicken breasts can be used, but they may require a different cooking time. Make sure to adjust cooking times and check for doneness with a meat thermometer.
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How long should I marinate the chicken?
For optimal flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes. If possible, let it marinate for a few hours or overnight for the best results.
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What can I do if I don’t have fresh cilantro?
If fresh cilantro is unavailable, you can substitute with parsley or basil, though it will alter the flavor slightly.
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Is this Cilantro Lime Chicken recipe gluten-free?
Yes, the recipe is naturally gluten-free as it contains no wheat-based ingredients, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Final Thoughts
This Cilantro Lime Chicken is a celebration of fresh flavors and simplicity. I hope you enjoy preparing and savoring this dish as much as I do. It’s an excellent choice for any time you want to bring a taste of summer to your table. Happy cooking!
Print
Cilantro Lime Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-15 minutes (stovetop/grilling) or 25-30 minutes (oven)
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mexican-inspired
Description
This vibrant Cilantro Lime Chicken recipe features tender, marinated boneless chicken thighs infused with fresh cilantro and zesty lime, perfect for quick weeknight dinners or entertaining. The versatile cooking methods include stovetop grilling, oven baking, and grilling, making it adaptable to your preference. Juicy, flavorful, and aromatic, this dish pairs well with rice, salads, or tacos.
Ingredients
Marinade
- 1 cup cilantro leaves, packed (about 1/2 bunch)
- 1 tsp lime zest
- 1/4 cup lime juice (about 3 limes)
- 3 cloves garlic, chopped
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 3 tbsp olive oil
Chicken
- 8 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (about 2 lb)
Garnish
- Cilantro leaves
- Lime wedges
Instructions
- Blend Marinade: Add all the marinade ingredients to a blender and pulse until smooth. This creates a fragrant, flavorful base for your chicken.
- Marinate Chicken: Place the chicken thighs in a bowl or ziplock bag, pour the marinade over, and ensure each piece is evenly coated. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours for maximum flavor.
- Option 1 – Stovetop Grilling: Heat a cast iron grill pan over medium-high heat, brush with olive oil. Grill each chicken thigh for about 5 minutes per side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F, checking with a digital meat thermometer.
- Option 2 – Oven Baking: Preheat oven to 375°F. Arrange marinated chicken on a baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes or until fully cooked (internal temp 165°F). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
- Option 3 – Grilling: Sear chicken over the hottest part of the grill for 2-3 minutes per side, then move to a cooler part of the grill to finish cooking. Boneless thighs take about 4-5 minutes per side; bone-in thighs may take up to 15 minutes per side. Ensure internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Notes
- For more intense flavor, marinate the chicken for up to 4 hours.
- If using bone-in thighs, increase baking time to about 45 minutes and grilling time accordingly.
- Serve garnished with fresh cilantro leaves and lime wedges for an added punch of freshness.
- This dish pairs well with rice, salads, or wrapped in warm tortillas for tacos.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken thigh
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 300 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 3 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 23 g
- Cholesterol: 80 mg
