This cilantro lime chicken is zesty and super tasty! Marinated in lime juice and fresh cilantro, it’s perfect for sunny days or whenever you need a flavor boost.
It’s quick to whip up, and I love serving it with rice or tacos. Just imagine the fresh flavors dancing on your taste buds. Yum! 🌿🍗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: These are tender and juicy, which makes them great for this recipe. If you’re looking for a leaner option, boneless, skinless chicken breasts can work too, but make sure not to overcook them!
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a vibrant flavor. If you’re not a fan, parsley can be used as a substitute for a milder taste. However, it’s good to know that it changes the flavor profile a bit!
Limes: Fresh limes are key for the zest and juice. If you don’t have limes, lemon juice is a decent alternative, but the flavor will be a bit different. I prefer fresh over bottled lime juice for the best taste.
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic is best for its bold flavor. If you’re in a pinch, you can use garlic powder, but the ratio is about 1/8 teaspoon for every clove.
Spices: Ground cumin and chili powder bring warmth to the dish. If you want more heat, add cayenne pepper instead of or in addition to chili powder. Alternatively, for a different flavor, taco seasoning can also be a tasty substitute.
How Do You Make Sure Your Chicken Is Juicy and Flavorful?
Marinating is a crucial step for flavor and tenderness. Here’s how to do it right:
- Combine all marinade ingredients in a bowl and mix well.
- Use a resealable bag or shallow dish to coat the chicken thoroughly. The longer it marinates, the better the flavors!
- When grilling, make sure your grill is preheated to medium-high to get those lovely grill marks.
- Let the chicken rest after grilling. This allows juices to redistribute, keeping the meat juicy.
Trust me, taking the time to marinate and rest is well worth the effort for deliciously juicy chicken!
How to Make Cilantro Lime Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
For the Marinade:
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 limes, zested and juiced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For Garnish:
- Optional: Additional lime wedges
- Optional: Fresh cilantro
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare, plus a minimum of 1 hour for marinating the chicken. If you can let it marinate overnight, that would be even better! Grill time is about 15 minutes. In total, expect about 1 hour and 25 minutes to enjoy this delicious dish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
Start by grabbing a medium bowl. In it, combine the chopped cilantro, lime zest, lime juice, minced garlic, olive oil, cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together until it’s well combined. This will be your tasty marinade!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Next, take your chicken thighs and place them in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour your delicious marinade over the chicken, making sure to coat each piece well. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap. Now, it’s time to refrigerate! Let the chicken marinate for at least 1 hour, but overnight is ideal for maximum flavor.
3. Grill the Chicken:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Once hot, take the chicken out of the marinade and discard any leftover marinade. Grill the chicken thighs for about 6-7 minutes on each side. Cook until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and show nice grill marks!
4. Let It Rest and Serve:
Once the chicken is cooked, transfer it to a plate and cover it loosely with foil. Let it rest for about 5 minutes—this helps keep it juicy. Finally, garnish your grilled chicken with fresh cilantro and lime wedges for a lovely touch. Enjoy your flavorful cilantro lime chicken!
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts can be used in place of thighs. Just keep in mind that breasts may cook faster, so check for doneness around the 5-6 minute mark on each side to avoid drying them out.
How Long Should I Marinate the Chicken?
For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 1 hour, but overnight is even better! If you’re short on time, a minimum of 30 minutes can still impart some flavor.
Can I Freeze the Marinated Chicken?
Yes, you can freeze the marinated chicken! Just place the chicken and marinade in a resealable freezer bag and store it for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, thaw it in the fridge overnight before grilling.
What’s the Best Way to Serve Cilantro Lime Chicken?
This chicken is delicious served with rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad. You can also turn it into tacos or wraps with your favorite toppings like avocado and salsa!
