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cilantro lime chicken
Sofia

cilantro lime chicken

Cilantro Lime Chicken is a vibrant, zesty dish that’s perfect for grilling, baking, or pan-searing. Juicy chicken is marinated in a fresh blend of lime juice, garlic, olive oil, and cilantro—creating bold, bright flavors in every bite. It pairs beautifully with rice, tacos, or salads.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
30 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
Calories: 360
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs
  • ¼ cup olive oil
  • Juice of 2 limes ~¼ cup
  • Zest of 1 lime
  • 3 garlic cloves minced
  • ½ teaspoon cumin
  • ½ teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ cup fresh cilantro chopped
  • Optional: extra lime wedges and cilantro for garnish

Method
 

  1. Make the Marinade:
  2. In a bowl or zip-top bag, mix olive oil, lime juice, lime zest, garlic, cumin, chili powder, salt, pepper, and chopped cilantro.
  3. Marinate the Chicken:
  4. Add chicken to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (up to 8 hours for deeper flavor).
  5. Grill or Cook the Chicken:
  6. Grill: Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Grill chicken 5–6 minutes per side until nicely charred and cooked through.
  7. Stovetop: Heat a large skillet over medium heat with a splash of oil. Sear chicken 6–7 minutes per side until golden and fully cooked.
  8. Oven: Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 22–25 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  9. Rest and Slice:
  10. Let chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
  11. Serve:
  12. Garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges. Serve with rice, tortillas, or salad.

Notes

  • Meal prep: Store cooked chicken in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days.
  • Make it spicy: Add 1 diced jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne to the marinade.
  • Use thighs for extra juiciness: Chicken thighs tend to stay more moist and flavorful during grilling.
  • Freezer tip: Freeze raw chicken in marinade in a zip-top bag for a future meal—thaw overnight in the fridge and cook as desired.