Cilantro Lime Chicken is a juicy and tasty dish that brings fresh flavors to your table! It’s made with chicken marinated in zesty lime juice and fragrant cilantro, creating a delightful mix.
This recipe is perfect for any day of the week. Just grill or bake the chicken, and you’ll have a meal everyone will love! I enjoy serving it with rice or in tacos—super yummy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: I recommend boneless, skinless chicken thighs for their juiciness and flavor. If you prefer, chicken breasts can be used as a lighter option, but they may dry out if overcooked.
Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice is best for flavor. If limes aren’t available, lemon juice can be a good substitute, bringing its own brightness to the dish.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro is essential for that distinct taste. If you’re not a fan of cilantro, parsley can be used instead, but it won’t give the same flavor profile.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds a nice richness. You can also use avocado oil or any light oil if you prefer a different taste.
Spices: Ground cumin and chili powder are key for depth. If you don’t have these on hand, try taco seasoning or smoked paprika for a different twist.
How Do I Marinate the Chicken for Maximum Flavor?
Marinating is key to infusing your chicken with amazing flavors. Follow these steps for the best results:
- Start by whisking all the marinade ingredients in a bowl until well combined.
- Add the chicken, ensuring every piece is coated evenly.
- Let it marinate for at least 1 hour in the fridge; 4 hours is even better for deeper flavors.
Make sure to cover the bowl or use a ziplock bag for easy cleanup. The longer you marinate, the more tender and flavorful your chicken will be!
How to Make Cilantro Lime Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade:
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
- Lime wedges and additional cilantro for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus at least 1 hour for marinating. If you want even more flavor, you can let the chicken marinate for up to 4 hours. After marinating, grilling takes about 15-20 minutes. So, set aside around 1 hour and 35 minutes to enjoy this tasty dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the fresh lime juice, chopped cilantro, olive oil, minced garlic, ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. This mixture will create a delicious marinade that will add tons of flavor to your chicken!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the chicken thighs to the bowl with the marinade. Make sure they are well coated by turning them around in the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator. Let the chicken marinate for at least 1 hour, or up to 4 hours if you want it extra tasty.
3. Preheat and Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any extra marinade drip off. Place the chicken on the hot grill and cook for about 6-8 minutes on each side. You’ll know it’s done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and you see those lovely grill marks.
4. Rest and Serve:
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps keep it juicy! After resting, slice the chicken and arrange it on a plate. Garnish with lime wedges and any remaining chopped cilantro. Serve warm and enjoy your tasty cilantro lime chicken!
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts can be used in place of thighs. Just keep in mind that chicken breasts may cook faster, so check the internal temperature at around 5-6 minutes on each side to avoid drying them out.
What Can I Substitute for Fresh Lime Juice?
If you don’t have fresh lime juice, bottled lime juice is a convenient alternative, but fresh juice will give a brighter flavor. You can also substitute with lemon juice in a pinch for a slightly different but tasty twist!
How Should I Store Leftover Cilantro Lime Chicken?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist, or simply microwave it until warmed through.
Can I Marinate the Chicken Overnight?
Yes, marinating the chicken overnight is a great way to infuse even more flavor! Just be mindful not to exceed 24 hours, as the acidic lime juice can start to make the chicken mushy.
