Cilantro Lime Chicken Breast (Grilled or Air Fryer)
User Reviews
4.8
Cilantro Lime Chicken Breast (Grilled or Air Fryer)
Description
This recipe combines boneless, skinless chicken breasts with a marinade made from lime juice and zest, olive oil, garlic, and fresh cilantro. The lime juice tenderizes the chicken and imparts a fresh acidity, while the garlic and cilantro add herbal and savory notes. The chicken is pounded to an even thickness to cook evenly and quickly.
Marinating for at least an hour allows the flavors to penetrate. Cooking can be done by grilling over medium heat for a smoky char or by air frying for a lighter, quicker option with a crisp exterior. Cooking times are about 5 minutes per side until charred and fully cooked through.
After cooking, the chicken is finished with a squeeze of fresh lime juice and garnished with cilantro, enhancing the bright flavors. This chicken works well sliced over salads, with rice, or enjoyed on its own. Variations can use different herbs and citrus for flavor shifts, and chicken thighs can be substituted for a different texture and taste.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts 6 oz each, organic, boneless skinless
- lime plus 1 lime cut into wedges, zest and juice of 1
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup cilantro divided, fresh
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tsp kosher salt to taste
- 1 tsp black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Pound the thicker end of the chicken breast with a mallet to make it even with the thinner end.
- Air fry in a single layer at 380 degrees for 5 minutes on each side.
- Combine the juice of 1 lime, lime zest, olive oil, 1/4 cup of the cilantro finely chopped, garlic and salt to a large glass or ceramic container with a lid, or a gallon size freezer bag.
- Coat the chicken well on both sides and marinate in the refrigerator at least 1 hour or as long as overnight, the longer the better, turning halfway.
- When ready to cook, oil a grill or grill pan over medium to medium-high heat.
- Grill about 5 minutes on each side, or until charred and cooked through in the center.
- Remove and set aside on a platter and squeeze the remaining lime over the chicken. Garnish with the remaining fresh cilantro.
Notes
- Marinate chicken for at least 1 hour or overnight for better flavor.
- Pound chicken to even thickness to ensure uniform cooking.
- Finish with fresh lime juice and cilantro garnish before serving.
- Chicken thighs can be used instead for a juicier result.
- Try varying herbs and citrus (e.g., lemon and basil, orange and rosemary) to change up flavors.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 4servings
Amount Per Serving
Calories 217 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Serving | 1breast | |
| Calories | 217kcal | 11% |
| Carbohydrates | 0.5g | 0% |
| Protein | 38.5g | 77% |
| Fat | 5.5g | 8% |
| Saturated Fat | 1g | 5% |
| Cholesterol | 124mg | 41% |
| Sodium | 360mg | 15% |
| Fiber | 0.5g | 2% |
| Sugar | 0.5g | 1% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
4.8
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