Cilantro Lime Chicken

Cilantro Lime Chicken is a juicy, zesty, and herbaceous dish that’s packed with bold, fresh flavors. Featuring a marinade of lime juice, garlic, olive oil, and plenty of chopped cilantro, this versatile recipe works wonderfully for grilling, baking, pan-searing, or air frying. It’s perfect for tacos, salads, or as a protein-packed entrée.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy to prep with everyday ingredients
• Bursting with fresh, vibrant flavor from lime and cilantro
• Ideal for meal prep, tacos, rice bowls, or wraps
• Naturally gluten-free and dairy-free
• Great for grilling season or weeknight dinners

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• Fresh lime juice
• Olive oil
• Fresh cilantro
• Garlic cloves
• Ground cumin
• Chili powder
• Salt
• Black pepper

Directions

1. Make the marinade:
   In a mixing bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, chopped cilantro, minced garlic, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Marinate the chicken:
   Place chicken in a zip-top bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over it, making sure all pieces are coated. Seal and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (up to 2 hours for deeper flavor).
3. Cook the chicken:
   • Grill: Preheat to medium-high and cook chicken for 6–7 minutes per side until fully cooked (internal temp 165°F).
   • Skillet: Heat a tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat and cook chicken 6–7 minutes per side.
   • Oven: Bake at 400°F for 20–25 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
   • Air Fryer: Cook at 380°F for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway.
4. Rest and serve:
   Let chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Garnish with extra cilantro and lime wedges if desired.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Marinate time: 30 minutes to 2 hours
Cook time: 10–20 minutes (depending on method)
Total time: approx. 45 minutes

Variations

• Spicy twist: Add cayenne pepper or sliced jalapeños to the marinade
• Citrus blend: Mix lime juice with orange or lemon juice for a sweet-tart flavor
• Honey cilantro lime: Add 1 tablespoon honey to the marinade for a sweet kick
• Dairy boost: Add a spoonful of Greek yogurt to the marinade for extra tenderness

Storage/reheating

• Storage: Store cooked chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days
• Freezing: Freeze cooked or raw-marinated chicken in freezer bags for up to 3 months
• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave, skillet, or oven at 350°F until warmed through

FAQs

Can I use bottled lime juice?

Fresh lime juice is best for flavor, but bottled lime juice works in a pinch.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless thighs work well and stay extra juicy.

Is this recipe good for meal prep?

Absolutely. Cooked cilantro lime chicken stores well and is easy to add to rice bowls, salads, or wraps.

How long should I marinate the chicken?

At least 30 minutes, but up to 2 hours is ideal. Avoid marinating longer than 8 hours to prevent the citrus from breaking down the meat.

Can I bake this instead of grill?

Yes, baking at 400°F for 20–25 minutes works great.

What sides go well with cilantro lime chicken?

Try cilantro lime rice, grilled vegetables, black beans, or corn salad.

Can I freeze the chicken in the marinade?

Yes, add the chicken and marinade to a freezer bag and freeze immediately. Thaw in the fridge overnight before cooking.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, marinate the chicken in advance or cook and store for up to 3 days.

How do I keep the chicken juicy?

Avoid overcooking—use a meat thermometer to check for doneness at 165°F.

What can I serve it with for a low-carb meal?

Serve over cauliflower rice, with grilled veggies or a fresh avocado salad.

Conclusion

Cilantro Lime Chicken is a flavorful, easy-to-make recipe that shines as a main course or in tacos, salads, and bowls. With minimal prep and bold flavor, it’s a go-to dish you’ll turn to again and again for fresh, healthy meals any time of year.

Print