๐ฟ Cilantro Lime Chicken Recipe (Juicy & Flavorful)
If you’re looking for a healthy, zesty, and flavor-packed chicken recipe, this Cilantro Lime Chicken is the perfect choice! Marinated in fresh lime juice, garlic, olive oil, and cilantro, then grilled or pan-seared until juicy – it’s a restaurant-quality meal you can make at home in just 30 minutes.
This recipe is low-carb, gluten-free, keto-friendly, and ideal for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or summer BBQs.
⭐ Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- ✅ Juicy & flavorful with fresh lime and herbs.
- ✅ Quick marinade (only 20 minutes needed).
- ✅ Works for grilling, baking, or pan-searing.
- ✅ Great for tacos, salads, and rice bowls.
๐ฅ Ingredients You’ll Need
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
- 2 tbsp lime zest
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
๐ฉ๐ณ How to Make Cilantro Lime Chicken
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, whisk together lime juice, lime zest, cilantro, olive oil, garlic, and spices. Add chicken and coat well. Cover and marinate for 20–30 minutes (up to 2 hours for stronger flavor).
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
- Grill Method: Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Grill chicken 6–7 minutes per side until cooked through (internal temp 165°F/74°C).
- Pan-Sear Method: Heat a skillet with olive oil. Cook chicken 5–6 minutes per side until golden and juicy.
- Oven Method: Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes until fully cooked.
Step 3: Garnish & Serve
Top with extra cilantro and lime wedges before serving.
๐ฝ️ Serving Suggestions
- Serve with cilantro lime rice and black beans.
- Slice and add to tacos, burritos, or quesadillas.
- Pair with a fresh green salad for a low-carb meal.
- Add to a grain bowl with quinoa, avocado, and veggies.
๐ Tips for Success
- Don’t over-marinate with lime juice (over 2 hours) or the chicken may get mushy.
- Use chicken thighs for extra juiciness.
- Double the marinade and save some as a sauce for serving.
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after cooking to keep it juicy.
๐ง Storage & Meal Prep
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Freeze cooked chicken for up to 2 months.
- Reheat: Warm gently in a skillet or oven for best texture.
๐ Cilantro Lime Chicken FAQs
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! Marinate the chicken in the morning and cook at dinner time for a quick meal.
Q: Can I use bottled lime juice instead of fresh?
Fresh lime juice is best for flavor, but bottled works in a pinch.
Q: Can I make this recipe spicy?
Yes! Add chili flakes, cayenne pepper, or jalapeรฑos to the marinade.
๐ฅ Nutrition (Per Serving – Approx.)
- Calories: 260
- Protein: 27g
- Carbs: 3g
- Fat: 15g
๐ Related Recipes You’ll Love
- ๐ฎ Chicken Fajitas with Peppers & Onions
- ๐ Lemon Garlic Chicken
- ๐ฅ Grilled Chicken Salad
- ๐ฅ Avocado Lime Chicken Tacos
- ๐ง Garlic Butter Chicken
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