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Grilled cilantro lime chicken thighs garnished with fresh cilantro and lime wedges on a wooden platter

Cilantro Lime Chicken

  • Author: Hannah
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

Juicy, tangy, and packed with fresh flavor, this cilantro lime chicken is a quick and easy dinner winner. Perfect for grilling, baking, or pan-searing, it’s a versatile and healthy option the whole family will enjoy.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Marinade:

  • 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)

  • Zest of 1 lime

  • 3 tablespoons olive oil

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin

  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

  • 1/4 teaspoon chili powder (optional)

  • 1 teaspoon salt

  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

For the Chicken:

  • 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts

  • Lime wedges and extra cilantro for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  • Make the Marinade
    In a medium bowl, whisk together lime juice, lime zest, olive oil, garlic, cumin, paprika, chili powder (if using), salt, pepper, and chopped cilantro until well combined.

  • Marinate the Chicken
    Place the chicken in a zip-top bag or shallow bowl. Pour the marinade over the chicken and mix to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 8 hours.

  • Cook the Chicken

    • Grill: Preheat grill to medium-high heat and grill chicken 5–7 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 165°F.

    • Pan-Sear: Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high. Cook chicken 5–6 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.

    • Bake: Preheat oven to 400°F. Place chicken on a baking sheet and bake for 20–25 minutes.

  • Rest and Serve
    Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges if desired.

Notes

For maximum flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours. If using chicken breasts, pound them to an even thickness to ensure even cooking. This chicken pairs well with rice, tacos, salads, or roasted vegetables.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Grill, Pan-Sear, Bake
  • Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired, American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 portion
  • Calories: 290
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 13g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 3g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 28g
  • Cholesterol: 105mg

Keywords: Cilantro Lime Chicken, Grilled Chicken, Chicken Marinade, Healthy Chicken Recipe, Easy Chicken Dinner

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Find it online: https://goodierecipes.com/cilantro-lime-chicken/