Cilantro Lime Chicken

Discover the irresistible flavors of our juicy Mexican Cilantro Lime Chicken. This dish is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family dinner or a weekend barbecue with friends. The standout qualities of this recipe come from its vibrant marinade featuring fresh cilantro and zesty lime juice, which pack in flavor while keeping the chicken tender and juicy. With easy preparation methods like pan-frying, baking, or grilling, this chicken dish will quickly become a favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of cilantro, lime, and garlic creates a refreshing taste that elevates the chicken.
• Quick to Prepare: With only 5 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time.
• Versatile Cooking Methods: Whether you choose to bake, grill, or pan-fry, you’ll achieve mouthwatering results every time.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This recipe is excellent for making ahead of time and reheating throughout the week.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein and low in carbs, it’s a nutritious choice for any meal.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience easier and more enjoyable, having the right tools is essential. Here are some tools you’ll need to prepare your Cilantro Lime Chicken effectively.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Baking dish
• Tongs

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: Perfect for achieving a nice sear on the chicken before baking.
• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining the marinade ingredients thoroughly.
• Whisk: Helps to blend the marinade uniformly for even flavor distribution.

Ingredients

To create this delicious Cilantro Lime Chicken, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Chicken

• 1 1/2 lbs. (700g) skin-on deboned chicken thighs
• lime wedges (for garnishing)
• chopped cilantro (for garnishing)

For the Marinade

• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 4 tablespoons cilantro stems and leaves (finely chopped)
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 1 teaspoon red chili flakes (or more to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (or more to taste)

How to Make Cilantro Lime Chicken

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, whisk together all the marinade ingredients until they are well combined.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Add the chicken thighs to the marinade. Stir well to coat evenly. Let it marinate for 15 minutes; for optimal flavor, consider marinating for up to 2 hours.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Place the marinated chicken skin-side down in the skillet. Pan-fry until slightly browned on one side. Flip and brown the other side as well.

Step 4: Bake the Chicken

Once seared, spoon any remaining marinade over the chicken before transferring it to a baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes or until fully cooked.

Step 5: Serve

Transfer your beautifully cooked Cilantro Lime Chicken to a serving platter. Discard any oily drippings, squeeze fresh lime juice over top, garnish with cilantro, and serve immediately.

Enjoy your flavorful journey with this delicious Cilantro Lime Chicken recipe!

How to Serve Cilantro Lime Chicken

Cilantro Lime Chicken is a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with various sides and garnishes. Here are some delicious serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

With Fresh Vegetables

• Grilled Vegetables: Zucchini, bell peppers, and onions drizzled with olive oil and grilled until tender.
• Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing blend of greens topped with a light vinaigrette complements the chicken’s flavors.

With Rice or Grains

• Cilantro Lime Rice: Cooked rice tossed with lime juice and fresh cilantro for a flavorful side.
• Quinoa Salad: Lightly seasoned quinoa mixed with diced tomatoes, cucumbers, and a squeeze of lime.

As Tacos or Wraps

• Taco Style: Shred the chicken and serve it in corn tortillas topped with avocado, salsa, and more cilantro.
• Wrap It Up: Use whole grain wraps to encase the chicken along with lettuce, tomatoes, and a drizzle of yogurt sauce.

How to Perfect Cilantro Lime Chicken

To achieve the best flavor and texture for your Cilantro Lime Chicken, consider these helpful tips.

• Marinate Longer: Allowing the chicken to marinate for up to 2 hours enhances its flavor significantly.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh cilantro and limes rather than dried or bottled versions to maximize taste.
• Monitor Cooking Time: Avoid overcooking by checking the internal temperature; it should reach 165°F (75°C).
• Sear First: Searing the chicken skin-side down creates a crispy texture while locking in moisture.

Best Side Dishes for Cilantro Lime Chicken

Pair your Cilantro Lime Chicken with these delightful side dishes that perfectly complement its vibrant flavors.

1. Mexican Street Corn: Grilled corn on the cob coated in creamy sauce, cheese, and spices.
2. Black Bean Salad: A hearty salad featuring black beans, corn, diced peppers, and lime dressing.
3. Spanish Rice: Fluffy rice cooked with tomatoes and spices for added flavor.
4. Avocado Salsa: Creamy avocado mixed with diced tomatoes, onions, lime juice, and cilantro.
5. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Cubes of sweet potatoes roasted until caramelized; a sweet contrast to the chicken.
6. Coleslaw: Crunchy cabbage slaw dressed lightly for a refreshing bite alongside the chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Cilantro Lime Chicken, avoid these common mistakes to enhance your cooking experience.

• Skipping the Marinade Time: Not allowing enough time for marinating can lead to less flavorful chicken. Aim for a minimum of 15 minutes, but for the best results, marinate for up to 2 hours.
• Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Choosing poor-quality chicken or stale spices can affect the dish’s overall taste. Always select fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
• Failing to Preheat the Oven: Baking chicken in a cold oven can lead to uneven cooking. Always preheat your oven to ensure even heat distribution.
• Overcrowding the Skillet: Placing too much chicken in the skillet at once can cause steaming instead of browning. Cook in batches if necessary for perfect results.
• Neglecting Garnishes: Skipping fresh lime juice and cilantro as garnishes removes an essential layer of flavor. Don’t forget these final touches before serving!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Cilantro Lime Chicken in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Cilantro Lime Chicken

• Place cooled chicken in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months; label with the date for reference.

Reheating Cilantro Lime Chicken

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and reheat chicken covered with foil for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals until warmed through, checking frequently to prevent overcooking.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Cilantro Lime Chicken.

What is Cilantro Lime Chicken?

Cilantro Lime Chicken is a flavorful dish made by marinating chicken in lime juice, fresh cilantro, and garlic. It’s versatile and easy to prepare.

Can I use other meats instead of chicken?

Yes! You can substitute chicken with beef, turkey, or lamb based on your preference while keeping the same marinade recipe.

How do I make it spicier?

To increase the heat level, add more red chili flakes or include sliced jalapeños in the marinade.

Can I grill Cilantro Lime Chicken?

Absolutely! Grilling adds a wonderful smoky flavor. Just marinate as directed and cook on medium-high heat until fully cooked.

What sides pair well with Cilantro Lime Chicken?

This dish pairs well with rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad. The zesty flavors complement many sides!

Final Thoughts

Cilantro Lime Chicken is not only delicious but also adaptable. You can customize it by adjusting spice levels or trying different herbs. We encourage you to give this recipe a try and enjoy its vibrant flavors!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

Print

Cilantro Lime Chicken

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Olivia
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Indulge in the vibrant and zesty flavors of our Cilantro Lime Chicken, a perfect dish for any occasion from family dinners to backyard barbecues. This juicy chicken is marinated in a refreshing blend of fresh cilantro, zesty lime juice, and aromatic garlic, ensuring each bite is bursting with flavor. With just a 5-minute prep time and versatile cooking methods such as grilling or baking, this dish is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. It’s an ideal meal prep option that can be enjoyed throughout the week. Serve it up with fresh vegetables or fluffy rice for a nutritious meal that everyone will love.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 1/2 lbs skin-on deboned chicken thighs
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 4 tablespoons cilantro (finely chopped)
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 1 teaspoon red chili flakes
• Salt to taste
• lime wedges (for garnishing)
• chopped cilantro (for garnishing)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, minced garlic, chopped cilantro, lime juice, red chili flakes, and salt.
3. Add chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring they are evenly coated. Let marinate for at least 15 minutes (up to 2 hours for best flavor).
4. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and sear chicken skin-side down until browned; flip and brown the other side.
5. Transfer the chicken to a baking dish, spoon remaining marinade on top, and bake for about 20 minutes until fully cooked.
6. Garnish with fresh lime juice and cilantro before serving.

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking/Frying
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 piece (140g)
• Calories: 290
• Sugar: 0g
• Sodium: 350mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 26g
• Cholesterol: 95mg