This Cilantro Lime Chicken is bursting with flavor! Tender chicken is marinated in zesty lime juice and fresh cilantro, making it perfect for any meal.
Honestly, the smell while it cooks is out of this world! I love serving it with rice or in tacos—it’s like a party in your mouth.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: I love using chicken thighs for their juiciness. If you prefer leaner meat, chicken breasts work too. Just be sure to not overcook them, as they can dry out more easily.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro is essential for flavor. If you’re not a fan, try parsley or basil instead. They won’t give the same zest, but they can brighten up the dish.
Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice brings a bright, tangy flavor. If limes aren’t available, lemon juice can be a good alternative, but it will taste slightly different.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is best for its robust flavor. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder could work, but use about a quarter of the amount since it’s more concentrated.
How Do I Marinate the Chicken for Better Flavor?
Marinating your chicken is a key step to infusing flavor. Here’s how to do it right:
- Mix your marinade ingredients well in a bowl before adding the chicken.
- Coat the chicken evenly and cover it. Refrigerating for at least 30 minutes lets the flavors penetrate better.
- If time allows, marinating up to 4 hours is perfect for a deeper taste.
Remember, always discard any leftover marinade that has touched raw chicken to prevent cross-contamination.
How to Make Cilantro Lime Chicken?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
For the Marinade:
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup lime juice (about 2 limes)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For Serving:
- Lime wedges
- Extra cilantro for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and you’ll want to marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours for tastier results). Cooking on the grill takes about 15 minutes. All in all, you’re looking at an hour, including resting time for the chicken.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
Start by grabbing a large bowl. In it, whisk together the chopped cilantro, lime juice, olive oil, minced garlic, ground cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper. This will create a flavorful marinade that will infuse your chicken with zest!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the chicken thighs (or breasts) to the marinade, making sure they are well coated on all sides. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and pop it in the refrigerator. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes, but for the best flavor, aim for up to 4 hours!
3. Prepare to Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This will give your chicken those lovely grill marks and a delicious char.
4. Cook the Chicken:
Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess drip off. Discard the leftover marinade. Place the chicken on the grill and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side. You’ll know it’s ready when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the chicken is beautifully charred.
5. Let It Rest and Serve:
Once the chicken is cooked, take it off the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps keep it juicy. Serve the chicken warm, garnished with extra cilantro and lime wedges on the side for a deliciously fresh squeeze. Enjoy your meal!
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts can be used, but they may cook a bit faster, so keep an eye on them while grilling. Adjust the cooking time to about 4-6 minutes per side, depending on thickness, until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Cilantro?
If you don’t have fresh cilantro, you can use dried cilantro (also known as coriander), but the flavor won’t be as vibrant. Use about 1 tablespoon of dried cilantro instead. Alternatively, parsley makes a nice substitute for a different flavor profile!
How to Store Leftover Cilantro Lime Chicken?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave or on a skillet over low heat until heated through. You can also chop it up and toss it into salads for a quick meal!
Can I Marinate the Chicken Overnight?
Yes, marinating overnight is great and can intensify the flavor! Just be cautious not to marinate for longer than 24 hours, as the acidity from lime juice can start to break down the chicken too much, affecting its texture.
