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Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts or Thighs: While chicken breasts are lean and popular, chicken thighs offer more flavor and tenderness. You can use either depending on your preference. If you’re looking to switch it up, turkey cutlets work great too!
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro is a must for that vibrant flavor. If you’re not a fan, try parsley for a milder taste or mint for a unique twist. Just remember, fresh herbs make a big difference!
Limes: Fresh limes are best for juicing and zesting. If limes are out of season, lemons can be a good alternative. The flavor will be different but still delicious!
Ground Spices: Ground cumin and chili powder give this dish its warmth. If you’re out of chili powder, paprika or cayenne can work in a pinch. Adjust the amount based on how spicy you like it!
How Can I Make Sure My Chicken is Perfectly Grilled?
Grilling chicken can be tricky, but with a little attention, you can get it just right. Here’s how to grill your chicken to juicy perfection:
- Start with a clean, preheated grill at medium-high heat to get good sear marks.
- Make sure to allow your chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes; 4 hours is even better for maximum flavor.
- Don’t rush the cooking! Grill each side for about 6-7 minutes without moving them around too much.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; it should read 165°F (75°C).
- Let your chicken rest for 5 minutes after grilling — this helps keep it juicy!
How to Make Cilantro Lime Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 limes (juiced and zested)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
For Garnish:
- Lime wedges
- Additional cilantro, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare, plus at least 30 minutes for marinating (up to 4 hours for extra flavor). Cooking will take around 15 minutes. In total, you’re looking at about 1 hour, including marinating time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a large bowl, mix together the chopped cilantro, lime juice, lime zest, minced garlic, olive oil, ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine all the flavors together.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, making sure each piece is well coated by the mix. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for even more delicious flavor.
3. Grill the Chicken:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill (or grill pan) to medium-high heat. Take the chicken out of the marinade, letting any excess drip off. Discard the leftover marinade. Then, place the chicken on the grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side. You want the chicken to reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and have a nice char on the outside.
4. Rest and Serve:
Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps keep it juicy! Lastly, garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side for some extra zing.
Enjoy your flavorful Cilantro Lime Chicken!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s important to thaw it beforehand. The best method is to move the chicken from the freezer to the fridge the night before. For quicker thawing, seal the chicken in a plastic bag and submerge it in cold water, changing the water every 30 minutes. Once thawed, be sure to pat it dry before marinating.
How Long Can I Marinate the Chicken?
You can marinate the chicken for as little as 30 minutes, but for the best flavor, aim for 4 hours or even overnight in the refrigerator. Just be cautious not to exceed 24 hours, as the lime juice can start to break down the chicken, resulting in a mushy texture.
Can I Substitute Other Herbs Instead of Cilantro?
Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of cilantro, you can substitute it with fresh parsley or basil for a different flavor profile. The herbs will complement the lime well, but keep in mind that the taste will be notably different.
How to Store Leftover Cilantro Lime Chicken?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the chicken in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave, ensuring it’s heated through but not dried out.
