Description
Cilantro Lime Grilled Chicken is a flavorful and vibrant dish combining cilantro, lime, garlic, and spices, perfect for grilling or pan-searing. It’s juicy, tender, and aromatic, ideal for tacos, salads, or alongside your favorite sides.
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 heat)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
Prepare the marinade: In a bowl, combine olive oil, lime juice and zest, chopped cilantro, minced garlic, cumin, chili powder (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir until well mixed.
- Marinate the chicken: Place the chicken 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, refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours. Marinate overnight for the best flavor.
- Preheat the grill: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F or 200°C). For a charcoal grill, ensure the coals are hot and evenly spread.
- Grill the chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the marinade. Grill the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, depending on thickness, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Rest the chicken: Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
- Serve: Slice the chicken and serve with a side of rice, grilled vegetables, or in tacos. Garnish with extra cilantro and a wedge of lime for added freshness.
Notes
- Add spice: Increase chili powder or add diced jalapeños for extra heat.
- Use chicken thighs for juicier meat.
- Serve with grilled vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or corn on the cob for a complete meal.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in a skillet or microwave for 1-2 minutes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12-14 minutes (depending on thickness)
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mexican, Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 75mg