Flavorful Cilantro Lime Chicken Recipe for Summer Nights

The aroma of cilantro lime chicken wafts through the air, tantalizing your senses and promising a burst of flavor with every bite. Imagine juicy chicken marinated in zesty lime juice, fresh cilantro, and a hint of garlic, grilling to perfection while your taste buds dance in delight.

I remember the first time I made this dish for friends on a warm summer night. Laughter filled the air as we feasted on tender chicken that was bursting with flavor, leaving everyone asking for seconds. It’s the perfect dish for backyard barbecues or cozy family dinners, and trust me, it will have you dreaming of tropical beaches.

Everyone raved about how delicious it was; even my picky cousin went back for thirds!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts to serve a group; adjust based on your needs.

• Fresh Cilantro: Look for bright green leaves without wilting; this herb is essential for that fresh flavor.

• Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice enhances the flavor significantly; bottled just doesn’t cut it.

• Garlic Cloves: Use fresh cloves for the best taste; minced garlic adds depth to the marinade.

• Olive Oil: A splash of good quality olive oil helps the marinade stick while adding richness.

• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that bring out all the flavors in your chicken.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Create the Marinade: In a mixing bowl, combine freshly squeezed lime juice, chopped cilantro, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Whisk until well blended.

Marinate the Chicken: Place your chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over them and ensure they are fully coated. Let it marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes—longer if you can wait!

Preheat Your Grill or Pan: Get your grill hot (around 400°F or 200°C) or heat some olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. You want that sizzle when you add the chicken.

Grill or Cook Chicken: Remove chicken from marinade and place it on the grill or skillet. Cook each side for about 6-7 minutes until golden brown and cooked through—your kitchen should smell heavenly now!

Let It Rest: Once cooked, remove the chicken from heat and let it rest for five minutes before slicing. This helps keep all those juices inside so every bite is moist.

Serve & Enjoy!: Slice up your chicken and serve with extra cilantro and lime wedges on top! Pair it with rice or toss into tortillas for tacos that will have everyone coming back for more.

Now go ahead and impress your family with this flavorful treat; they won’t know what hit them!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To achieve juicy cilantro lime chicken, marinate the chicken for at least an hour, sear it for a crispy exterior, then finish cooking in the oven to lock in moisture.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out cilantro with parsley if you’re not a fan. Add diced jalapeños for spice or throw in some bell peppers during cooking for extra color and crunch.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover cilantro lime chicken in airtight containers in the fridge for up to four days. To reheat, warm gently in the oven or microwave to maintain juiciness.

Sharing this recipe brings back memories of summer barbecues with friends where laughter mingled with the scent of grilled chicken, and everyone clamored for seconds.

FAQ

What can I serve with cilantro lime chicken?

Cilantro lime chicken pairs beautifully with rice, tacos, or a fresh salad.

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, but thaw it completely before marinating to absorb all flavors.

How long do leftovers last?

Leftover cilantro lime chicken can be stored in the fridge for up to four days.

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Cilantro Lime Chicken

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Cilantro Lime Chicken is a vibrant and zesty dish that elevates your meals with its fresh flavors. Perfectly marinated in lime juice, garlic, and cilantro, this juicy chicken is ideal for summer barbecues or cozy family dinners. With a quick prep time and versatile serving options—from tacos to salads—this recipe will transport you to a tropical paradise with every bite!

• Author: Jennifer
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4
• Category: Main
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: Mexican

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice (about 2 limes)
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together lime juice, cilantro, garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
2. Place chicken in a resealable bag or shallow dish; pour marinade over it. Marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F). Remove chicken from marinade and grill each side for about 6-7 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
4. Let chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve with additional cilantro and lime wedges.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 chicken breast (approximately 6 oz)
• Calories: 220
• Sugar: 0 g
• Sodium: 90 mg
• Fat: 9 g
• Saturated Fat: 1 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 2 g
• Fiber: 0 g
• Protein: 34 g
• Cholesterol: 90 mg