Cilantro Lime Chicken
User Reviews
5
-
Prep Time
10 mins
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Cook Time
15 mins
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Marinating Time
30 mins
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Total Time
55 mins
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Servings
4
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Calories
234 kcal
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Course
Main Course
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Cuisine
Mexican
Cilantro Lime Chicken
Description
This recipe combines olive oil with the juice of two limes, fresh cilantro, minced garlic, sugar, salt, and black pepper to create a vibrant marinade for boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs. Marinating for a minimum of 30 minutes and up to 8 hours allows the flavors to penetrate. The chicken is grilled over medium to medium-high heat until reaching an internal temperature of 165°F, typically 5-7 minutes per side.
The lime juice and cilantro lift the flavor profile, offering a fresh, zesty complement to the smoky grilled exterior. Resting the chicken post-grill ensures it remains juicy and tender. This dish pairs well with rice, salads, or vegetables.
When chicken breasts are large, cutting them in half horizontally speeds cooking without sacrificing moisture. The recipe also supports freezing chicken in the marinade for later use, ensuring convenience and flavor retention.
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- lime juice of two
- ⅓ cup cilantro chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 teaspoons sugar
- salt to taste
- black pepper to taste
- 4 chicken breast boneless skinless; or chicken thighs
Instructions
- Combine the olive oil, lime juice, cilantro, garlic, sugar, salt, and pepper in a large Ziploc bag. Place chicken in a bag with marinade and refrigerate for 30 minutes to 8 hours.
- When ready to grill preheat to medium to medium-high heat (about 400°F). Lightly oil the grate. Place chicken on the grill and grill for 5-7 minutes per side or until a meat thermometer reads 165°F.
- Remove from grill and allow to rest for 10 minutes.
Notes
- Cut very large chicken breasts horizontally in half for quicker cooking.
- Marinate raw chicken in the lime-cilantro mixture and freeze for up to 2 months; thaw overnight before grilling.
- Store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge or freezer; keep refrigerated for 3-4 days and frozen for 3 months.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 4Serving
Amount Per Serving
Calories 234 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 234kcal | 12% |
| Carbohydrates | 3g | 1% |
| Protein | 24g | 48% |
| Fat | 13g | 20% |
| Saturated Fat | 2g | 10% |
| Cholesterol | 72mg | 24% |
| Sodium | 132mg | 6% |
| Potassium | 430mg | 9% |
| Fiber | 1g | 4% |
| Sugar | 2g | 4% |
| Vitamin A | 124IU | 2% |
| Vitamin C | 3mg | 3% |
| Calcium | 11mg | 1% |
| Iron | 1mg | 6% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
5
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