This Cilantro Lime Chicken is bursting with fresh flavors! The tangy lime and vibrant cilantro make this dish bright and tasty. It’s perfect for dinner or a summer BBQ!
I love how easy it is to make—just marinate, grill, and enjoy! Serve it with rice or in a salad for a yummy meal. Trust me, everyone will ask for your secret recipe! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless thighs are great for juiciness, but breasts work too. If you’re looking for a leaner option, go for chicken breasts. You can also swap it with tofu or portobello mushrooms for a vegetarian take!
Lime juice: Fresh is best! If you’re in a pinch, bottled lime juice can work, but it may lack that fresh zing. When buying limes, feel them; heavier limes usually have more juice!
Cilantro: This herb gives a fresh, vibrant flavor. If you’re not a fan of cilantro, parsley is a good substitute, or you can use fresh mint for a different twist.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic provides the best flavor, but you can substitute with garlic powder if you’re in a hurry. Use about 1/4 teaspoon for each clove.
Spices: Cumin and chili powder really elevate this dish. For a milder taste, reduce their amounts. If you want to spice it up, add some cayenne pepper or paprika.
How Do I Marinate Chicken to Ensure Maximum Flavor?
Marinating the chicken is key for flavor and tenderness. Follow these straightforward steps:
- Combine all marinade ingredients — lime juice, cilantro, garlic, cumin, chili powder, salt, pepper, and olive oil — in a bowl and whisk well.
- Place chicken in a resealable bag or dish, cover it well with the marinade, and let it sit in the fridge. The longer the better. Aim for at least 1 hour; overnight is best for really deep flavor!
- When ready to grill, discard the marinade to ensure the chicken gets that nice char without burning.
Resting the chicken after grilling helps the juices redistribute, making each bite deliciously tender. Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make Cilantro Lime Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Marinade:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For Garnish:
- Lime wedges
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious cilantro lime chicken recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and an hour to marinate in the refrigerator. Once marinated, it will grill for about 15 minutes. So you’re looking at around 1 hour and 30 minutes in total, mainly due to the marinating time, but most of that is hands-off!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, combine the fresh lime juice, chopped cilantro, minced garlic, ground cumin, chili powder, salt, black pepper, and olive oil. Whisk everything together until it’s well mixed. This is the tasty marinade that will flavor your chicken!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Take your chicken thighs or breasts and place them in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the delicious marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece is well coated in that flavorful mix. Seal the bag or cover the dish and pop it in the refrigerator to marinate for at least 1 hour. If you have the time, marinate it overnight for even better flavor!
3. Grill the Chicken:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Take the chicken out of the marinade (throw away the marinade—it’s done its job!) and place the chicken on the grill. Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side. You’ll know it’s done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and you see nice char marks on the outside.
4. Serve and Enjoy:
Once grilled, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes to keep it juicy. Before serving, garnish with extra chopped cilantro and lime wedges for a fresh touch. Enjoy your cilantro lime chicken with your favorite side dishes, like rice, veggies, or a salad!
Can I Use Bone-In Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use bone-in chicken! Just keep in mind that bone-in pieces may take a bit longer to cook on the grill. Aim for about 10-12 minutes per side, and always check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for safety.
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the chili powder to 1/2 teaspoon, or leave it out altogether. For more heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or using a spicier chili powder variant. Just make sure to taste the marinade before adding too much spice!
Can I Make This Recipe in the Oven Instead?
Absolutely! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the marinated chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C), turning halfway through for even cooking.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a microwave or on a skillet over low heat until warmed through. You can also chop it up to add to salads or wraps!
