Cilantro Lime Chicken is a tasty dish that’s perfect for any meal! It’s made with tender chicken, zesty lime juice, and fresh cilantro, giving it a bright flavor that makes your taste buds dance.
This chicken is a hit at dinner parties and BBQs! I love to serve it with rice or in tacos. Plus, the smell while it cooks is simply irresistible. Who can resist that? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: I love using chicken thighs because they stay moist and flavorful. You can use chicken breasts if you prefer a leaner option. Just be mindful not to overcook them!
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a bright flavor, but if you’re not a fan, parsley can be a suitable substitute. It won’t be as zesty, but it’ll still give a nice touch.
Lime Juice and Zest: Fresh is best! If you can’t get limes, try using lemon juice, but it will change the overall flavor slightly. Just keep the zest from what you find for maximum brightness.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is my go-to for this recipe, but you can use garlic powder in a pinch. Use about 1/8 teaspoon for each clove to keep the flavor balanced.
Spices: Smoked paprika gives a nice depth, but regular paprika works too. Cumin adds warmth, so if you’re out, you might try a pinch of taco seasoning instead!
How Can I Make Sure My Chicken Is Juicy and Flavorful When Grilling?
The marinade is key to keeping your chicken juicy and flavorful. Make sure to marinate for at least an hour, but overnight is best. This allows the flavors to soak in thoroughly.
- Mix the marinade well before adding chicken for even flavor.
- Discard leftover marinade to avoid cross-contamination.
- Let the chicken rest after grilling. This helps the juices redistribute, making the meat more tender.
How to Make Cilantro Lime Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 2 limes
- Zest of 1 lime
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For Garnish:
- Lime wedges
- Extra cilantro
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish requires about 15 minutes of active prep time, along with at least 1 hour for marinating (or ideally overnight). The grilling takes another 15 minutes, so in total, you’re looking at around 1 hour and 30 minutes if you include marinating overnight.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a large bowl, whisk together the lime juice, lime zest, minced garlic, olive oil, chopped cilantro, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. This mixture will create a flavorful marinade for your chicken!
2. Marinade the Chicken:
Add the chicken thighs to the bowl, making sure they’re well coated with the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate. It’s best to marinate for at least 1 hour, but overnight will give you even more tasty flavor!
3. Preheat the Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat, which should be about 375-400°F. This will get the grill nice and hot for perfect chicken.
4. Grill the Chicken:
Take the chicken out of the marinade and let any extra marinade drip off. Discard the leftover marinade. Place the chicken on the grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side. You want it to reach an internal temperature of 165°F and have those wonderful golden brown grill marks.
5. Let It Rest:
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps keep it juicy and tender when you slice it.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Slice the chicken and serve garnished with fresh cilantro and lime wedges. Enjoy this zesty and vibrant dish!
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts will work just fine in this recipe. Keep in mind they may cook a little faster than thighs, so monitor them closely while grilling to avoid drying them out. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption.
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Cilantro?
No problem! You can substitute fresh cilantro with fresh parsley for a different flavor profile, or use 1 tablespoon of dried cilantro. However, fresh herbs tend to provide a brighter taste, so if possible, stick with fresh!
Can I Make the Marinade Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Prepare the marinade a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. This is a great time-saver and allows the flavors to meld together, making your chicken even tastier. Just be sure to add the chicken and marinate for at least an hour before grilling.
How Should I Store Leftover Chicken?
Store any leftover cilantro lime chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently in the microwave or on the stovetop. Adding a splash of lime juice can help refresh the flavor!
