If you’re looking for a fresh, flavorful, and fuss-free dinner that never disappoints, this Simple Cilantro Lime Chicken Recipe is exactly what you need. Perfectly juicy chicken breasts bathed in a zesty marinade packed with bright cilantro and tart lime juice create a dish that’s both vibrant and comforting. Whether you’re cooking for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this recipe brings a burst of sunshine to your plate with every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Simple Cilantro Lime Chicken Recipe plays a vital role in balancing bright, savory, and herbaceous flavors. These simple staples come together to create depth, moisture, and that signature zing we all love.
- 1.5 pounds Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: The tender, lean protein that soaks up the marinade for maximum flavor.
- 1 cup Fresh Cilantro, chopped: Adds a vibrant green color and a fresh, aromatic punch.
- 1/4 cup Fresh Lime Juice: The acidic component that tenderizes the chicken and offers a lively citrus tang.
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil: Brings richness and helps emulsify the marinade so it coats evenly.
- 3-4 cloves Garlic, minced: Infuses savory depth and warms the dish with gentle pungency.
- 1 teaspoon Salt: Essential for enhancing all the natural flavors in the chicken and marinade.
- 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper: Provides a subtle spice that rounds out the taste beautifully.
How to Make Simple Cilantro Lime Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the fresh lime juice, chopped cilantro, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. This lively marinade will soak into the chicken, infusing it with zesty brightness and herbaceous flair.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Add the chicken breasts to the bowl and turn each piece to coat it thoroughly with the marinade. It’s easiest to use your hands or tongs for an even coating. This step is where the magic starts, as the chicken absorbs all those fresh flavors.
Step 3: Chill for Flavor
Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or transfer the marinated chicken into a resealable bag. Place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, though 2 hours will deepen the flavors even more. Marinating is key for tender, flavorful chicken.
Step 4: Preheat Your Cooking Method
Whether you’re firing up the grill or using your oven, bring it to medium-high heat. For grilling, a quick oiling of the grates prevents sticking and gives perfect grill marks.
Step 5: Cook the Chicken
Place the marinated chicken on the grill or in a baking dish. Grill for 6 to 8 minutes per side, or bake in a 375°F oven for 25 to 30 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and juices run clear. This step seals in the bright citrus and cilantro flavors while giving the chicken a beautiful exterior.
Step 6: Rest the Chicken
Once cooked, let the chicken rest for about five minutes before slicing or serving whole. Resting keeps the juices locked inside so every bite stays moist and tender.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Finish by garnishing with extra chopped cilantro and lime wedges—these little touches add an extra layer of freshness and make your presentation pop.
How to Serve Simple Cilantro Lime Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh cilantro leaves and a few lime wedges brighten the plate visually and boost the zesty flavor with every bite. You can also add a dollop of sour cream or a light drizzle of olive oil for extra richness.
Side Dishes
This chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Think fluffy white rice, cilantro-lime quinoa, or a crunchy cabbage slaw that mirrors the bright flavors. Roasted vegetables or a simple salad also work beautifully to balance the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn this Simple Cilantro Lime Chicken Recipe into tacos with warm corn tortillas and your favorite toppings, or slice it over loaded grain bowls for a healthy, dynamic lunch. For a fun twist, chop the cooked chicken and toss into fresh salads or wraps for easy, flavorful meals later in the week.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After cooling to room temperature, store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it ideal for quick lunches or dinners later on.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy this Simple Cilantro Lime Chicken Recipe another time, freezing is a great option. Wrap each cooked chicken breast tightly in foil or plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. It will keep well for up to 2 months.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the chicken in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave at medium power to avoid drying it out. Adding a splash of water or an extra squeeze of lime juice during reheating can help keep it moist and flavorful.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs will work wonderfully and offer a bit more juiciness and richness, which pairs nicely with the bright marinade.
How long can I marinate the chicken?
The chicken can marinate between 30 minutes to 2 hours for the best flavor. Going longer than 2 hours is okay but may start to change the texture due to the acidity of the lime juice.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this Simple Cilantro Lime Chicken Recipe is naturally gluten-free since it uses fresh ingredients and no wheat-based additives.
Can I make this recipe vegan or vegetarian?
While the recipe centers on chicken, you could adapt the marinade for tofu, tempeh, or even grilled vegetables for a plant-based version full of zest and freshness.
What’s the best way to know when the chicken is cooked?
Cooking times can vary, so using a meat thermometer ensures perfect results; the internal temperature should reach 165°F for safe consumption.
Final Thoughts
This Simple Cilantro Lime Chicken Recipe has quickly become a favorite for good reason—it’s bursting with fresh, zesty flavor and super easy to prepare. Sharing it with friends and family always brings smiles, and I’m confident you’ll love how effortlessly it can brighten any meal. Give it a try and watch it become your new go-to dinner hit!
Print
Simple Cilantro Lime Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Diet: Halal
Description
This Simple Cilantro Lime Chicken recipe features juicy, marinated boneless skinless chicken breasts infused with fresh cilantro, vibrant lime juice, and garlic. Perfect for a quick and flavorful meal, the chicken can be cooked on the grill or baked in the oven for a tender, zesty finish that pairs well with a variety of sides.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1.5 pounds Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts
Marinade
- 1 cup Fresh Cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup Fresh Lime Juice (juice of 2–3 limes)
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil
- 3–4 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the marinade: In a large bowl, combine lime juice, chopped cilantro, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until well blended to create a flavorful base for the chicken.
- Marinate the chicken: Add the chicken breasts to the marinade, ensuring each piece is fully coated. Use your hands or tongs to turn the chicken over so the marinade covers all surfaces evenly.
- Refrigerate: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the chicken and marinade into a resealable bag. Allow it to marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes and up to 2 hours to absorb the flavors.
- Preheat cooking equipment: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking. Alternatively, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) if baking.
- Cook the chicken: Place the marinated chicken breasts on the grill and cook for 6-8 minutes per side until fully cooked and juices run clear. If baking, place the chicken in a baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes at 375°F until cooked through.
- Rest the chicken: Remove the chicken from heat and let it rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring tender and juicy meat.
- Garnish and serve: Garnish with additional fresh cilantro and lime wedges for extra flavor and freshness before serving.
Notes
- Marinating time can be extended up to 2 hours for maximum flavor without compromising texture.
- If grilling, be sure to oil the grates to prevent sticking.
- Use a meat thermometer to check doneness; chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- This dish pairs well with rice, salads, or grilled vegetables.
- Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
