Lime Marinated Grilled Chicken
User Reviews
5
Lime Marinated Grilled Chicken
Description
This Lime Marinated Grilled Chicken recipe involves marinating boneless chicken breasts or thighs for at least 12 hours to absorb bright citrus flavors alongside garlic, brown sugar, and a combination of fish sauce or soy sauce that adds umami depth. The zest and juice of limes contribute freshness while the brown sugar balances acidity with sweetness. Optional chopped cilantro adds herbal notes. The chicken is pounded to an even thickness to promote uniform cooking and then marinated in a sealed bag.
Cooking can be done via pan-searing, grilling, or oven baking followed by broiling to caramelize the surface. Each technique forms a golden-brown crust while locking moisture inside. The fish sauce’s complexity enriches the flavor without imparting fishiness, and lime juice enhances tenderness. The marinade is discarded prior to cooking to prevent flare-ups on the grill or bitterness.
This chicken works well as a protein main for casual meals, pairing nicely with grilled vegetables, rice, or salads. The recipe notes indicate the marinade also freezes well with the chicken for meal prepping. Optional chili additions can lend subtle heat and spice. Resting the chicken after cooking improves juiciness before serving.
Careful marinating timing preserves texture—minimum 12 hours imparts flavor; over 48 hours can break down meat excessively. Adjust soy or fish sauce quantities to preference. The flexibility of cooking methods suits different kitchen setups.
Ingredients
Chicken Marinade
- 600-750g / 1.2 - 1.5 lb chicken breast Note 1, 4 pieces or boneless thigh
- lime zest before juicing, zest of 1
- 4 tbsp lime juice (1 - 2 limes)
- 2 garlic minced, cloves
- 3 tbsp brown sugar
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp cilantro optional, finely chopped, aka coriander
- 1 tbsp fish sauce Note 2, or 2 tbsp soy sauce
To Cook
- 1 - 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Use fist (or rolling pin!) to pound fat end of chicken breast to about 1.7 cm / 2/3" thickness (not required for thigh).
- Place chicken and Marinade in a ziplock bag, massage to distribute marinade evenly. Place on a plate or bowl and refrigerate for 24 hours (min 12 hrs, max 48 hrs - Note 3)
- Remove chicken, discard Marinade. Cook using one method below.
To Cook (cooked internal temp 165F/75C)
- STOVE: Heat oil in a large skillet over medium high heat. Cook chicken for 3 minutes on each side or until caramelised and golden brown (see video!).
- BBQ: Brush grills with oil and heat to medium high (or medium if your BBQ is strong). Cook chicken for 3 minutes on each side until caramelised (see video!).
- OVEN: Preheat oven to 425F/220C. Bake 15 minutes, then flick broiler/grill on high and grill for 3 minutes to caramelise surface & finish cooking.
Rest and Serve:
- Transfer chicken to a serving plate, cover loosely with foil and rest for 3 minutes.
- Garnish with extra coriander/cilantro, lime wedges and chilli if desired, then serve!
Notes
- Use boneless chicken breasts or thighs; pounding breasts to even thickness promotes even cooking.
- Marinate between 12 to 48 hours to develop flavor and tenderness without over-softening.
- Fish sauce adds umami depth without fishy taste; substitute soy sauce if preferred but use slightly more.
- Discard marinade before cooking to avoid flare-ups and bitterness.
- The marinated chicken can be frozen for meal prep; thaw in refrigerator overnight for best results.
- Consider adding finely chopped fresh chili or chili paste to the marinade for mild heat.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 4Serving
Amount Per Serving
Calories 274 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Serving | 164g | |
| Calories | 274cal | 14% |
| Carbohydrates | 10g | 3% |
| Protein | 32g | 64% |
| Fat | 10g | 15% |
| Saturated Fat | 1g | 5% |
| Cholesterol | 96mg | 32% |
| Sodium | 412mg | 17% |
| Potassium | 584mg | 12% |
| Sugar | 9g | 18% |
| Vitamin A | 45IU | 1% |
| Vitamin C | 6.8mg | 8% |
| Calcium | 18mg | 2% |
| Iron | 0.6mg | 3% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
5
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