Cilantro Lime Chicken is a fresh and zesty dish that’s sure to brighten your meal! The chicken is marinated in a tasty mix of cilantro, lime juice, and spices for a burst of flavor.
Making it is a breeze! I love serving this chicken with rice or in tacos. It always brings a smile and a bit of sunshine to my dinner table. 🌞
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: I recommend bone-in chicken thighs for juiciness and flavor. If you prefer breasts, they will work too, but might dry out faster. You can also use skinless if you’re looking for a lighter option.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro is vital for that vibrant flavor. If you’re not a fan, fresh parsley can be a good substitute. It changes the taste but still adds freshness.
Lime Juice and Zest: Fresh lime juice is best to brighten the dish. If you can’t get limes, bottled juice works in a pinch but may lack some brightness. Lemon juice can be a decent substitute for lime flavor.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic really lifts the flavors here. If you don’t have fresh garlic, you can use garlic powder, but only about 1/4 teaspoon since it’s more concentrated.
Cumin and Paprika: These spices add warmth; I love the smoky flavor from paprika. You can swap cumin for ground coriander if you want a different flavor profile.
How Do I Marinate Chicken Properly?
Marinating is crucial for infusing flavor into the chicken. Here’s how to do it effectively:
- Combine the marinade ingredients in a bowl. Whisk until it’s smooth and well-blended.
- Use a zip-lock bag or a shallow dish to hold the chicken. The more the chicken is coated, the better the flavor.
- Seal the bag or cover the dish, then refrigerate. Aim for at least 1 hour, but letting it sit for 8 hours maximizes the flavor.
Don’t forget to discard any leftover marinade after use, as it has touched raw chicken!
How to Make Cilantro Lime Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 bone-in chicken thighs (or breasts)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup lime juice (about 2 limes)
- Zest of 1 lime
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional for spice)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lime wedges and extra cilantro for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and needs at least 1 hour (or up to 8 hours) for marinating. Cooking on the grill will take about 15 minutes. Overall, plan for 1 hour and 30 minutes to 8 hours, depending on your marinating time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, combine the chopped cilantro, lime juice, lime zest, minced garlic, olive oil, cumin, paprika, chili powder (if using), along with salt and pepper. Mix everything well to create a flavorful marinade.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Put the chicken thighs (or breasts) into a large zip-lock bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure it’s well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and place it in the refrigerator. Let it marinate for at least 1 hour, or up to 8 hours if you want even more flavor!
3. Prepare the Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent the chicken from sticking.
4. Grill the Chicken:
Take the chicken out of the marinade, letting any excess drip off, and discard the remaining marinade. Place the chicken onto the hot grill. Cook for about 6-8 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature hits 165°F (75°C) and the chicken is beautifully charred.
5. Rest and Serve:
Once grilled, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing or serving. This helps keep it juicy! Serve your cilantro lime chicken with lime wedges and extra cilantro for a bright, fresh touch. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts will work perfectly in this recipe. Just keep in mind that they might cook a bit faster, so check for doneness around the 5-6 minute mark per side. Make sure they still reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Can I Make This Recipe Without Fresh Cilantro?
Yes, if cilantro isn’t your thing, you can substitute it with parsley for a milder flavor. Alternatively, you can skip the herb entirely and add a touch of fresh lime juice or zest at the end for brightness instead!
How Long Can I Marinate the Chicken?
For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 1 hour, but you can marinate it for up to 8 hours. Just make sure to keep it in the refrigerator while marinating to avoid any food safety issues!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Cilantro Lime Chicken?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently in the microwave or on the stove to retain the chicken’s moisture. Pairing with fresh cilantro and lime on top when serving again enhances the flavors!
