Cilantro Lime Grilled Chicken

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cilantro Lime Grilled Chicken is packed with bold, refreshing flavors that make it the perfect dish for a variety of occasions. The combination of lime and cilantro adds a bright, herbaceous note, while the garlic and spices give the chicken depth and savory flavor. The marinade is simple to prepare, and the chicken cooks up quickly on the grill, making this recipe both easy and fast. Whether you serve it on its own, in tacos, or with a side of rice or vegetables, this dish is incredibly versatile and always a hit!

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)

• 1/4 cup olive oil

• Juice and zest of 2 limes

• 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon ground cumin

• 1 teaspoon chili powder (optional, for a bit of heat)

• Salt and pepper, to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the marinade: In a bowl, combine the olive oil, lime juice and zest, chopped cilantro, minced garlic, cumin, chili powder (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well mixed.

2. Marinate the chicken: Place the chicken breasts (or thighs) in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure it’s evenly coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours. For the best flavor, marinate for at least 2 hours, but you can marinate overnight for more intensity.

3. Preheat the grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F or 200°C). If you’re using a charcoal grill, make sure the coals are hot and evenly spread.

4. Grill the chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard any leftover marinade. Place the chicken on the grill and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side, depending on the thickness of the chicken, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

5. Rest the chicken: Once cooked through, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.

6. Serve: Slice the chicken and serve with a side of your choice, such as rice, grilled vegetables, or in a taco or salad. Garnish with extra cilantro and a wedge of lime for added freshness.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Marinate Time: 30 minutes to 4 hours (or overnight for best results)

• Cook Time: 12-14 minutes (depending on thickness)

• Total Time: 45 minutes to 4 hours (depending on marination time)

Variations

• Add spice: For a spicier kick, increase the amount of chili powder or add diced jalapeños to the marinade. You can also drizzle the grilled chicken with a spicy sauce or hot sauce.

• Use chicken thighs: If you prefer darker meat, you can substitute chicken thighs for breasts. They will remain juicy and flavorful.

• Grilled vegetables: Serve the chicken with grilled vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or corn on the cob for a full grilled meal.

• Tacos: Slice the grilled chicken and serve it in soft tortillas with fresh toppings like avocado, salsa, and sour cream for a quick taco night.

• Make it smoky: Add a teaspoon of smoked paprika to the marinade for a subtle smoky flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: To reheat, warm the chicken in a skillet over medium heat, covered, for 5-7 minutes until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave for 1-2 minutes.

FAQs

Can I make this chicken in the oven?

Yes! You can bake the marinated chicken in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). You can also broil it for 5-7 minutes per side for a grilled-like effect.

Can I use this marinade for other proteins?

Absolutely! This cilantro lime marinade works wonderfully with shrimp, fish (like tilapia or mahi-mahi), or even pork. Just adjust the cooking time based on the protein you’re using.

How do I know when the chicken is done cooking?

To ensure the chicken is cooked through, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). You can also cut into the thickest part of the chicken to check for clear juices.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the marinade and marinate the chicken the night before or earlier in the day to allow the flavors to develop. The longer you marinate, the more flavorful the chicken will be.

Can I make this dish without a grill?

Yes, you can cook the chicken in a grill pan or on a stovetop skillet if you don’t have access to an outdoor grill. Just make sure to heat the pan over medium-high heat and cook the chicken until golden brown and fully cooked.

Can I freeze the marinated chicken?

Yes, you can freeze the marinated chicken. Place the chicken and marinade in a freezer-safe bag, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, thaw the chicken in the fridge overnight and proceed with grilling.

How do I make the chicken even more tender?

To ensure your chicken is tender and juicy, try to avoid overcooking it. You can also gently pound the chicken to an even thickness before marinating to ensure uniform cooking.

Conclusion

Cilantro Lime Grilled Chicken is a simple, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its bright, zesty marinade, it’s the ideal chicken recipe for grilling season, but it’s delicious any time of year. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd, prepping for a week of meals, or just looking for a tasty weeknight dinner, this chicken will satisfy your cravings. Its refreshing lime and cilantro flavors make it a versatile dish that can be served in salads, tacos, or alongside your favorite side dishes. Enjoy!