This cilantro lime chicken is a bright and zesty dish that’s bursting with flavor! Marinated in lime juice and fresh cilantro, it’s juicy and perfect for any meal.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: I love using boneless, skinless chicken thighs for their juiciness and flavor. If you’re looking for a leaner option, boneless, skinless chicken breasts work well too. Just keep an eye on cooking time as breasts can dry out quickly.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro brings a bright flavor to this dish. If cilantro isn’t your thing or you have an allergy, parsley is a great substitute. It won’t taste the same, but it will still add freshness.
Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice is best for that zingy flavor. If you’re in a pinch, bottled lime juice can work, but it can be less vibrant. Always use less bottled juice than fresh since it can have a more concentrated taste.
Spices: Ground cumin and paprika add a lovely warmth. If you don’t have cumin on hand, chili powder can be a good alternative, giving a bit of a kick. Just adjust the amount to your spice preference.
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken Stays Juicy on the Grill?
Grilling chicken can be tricky, but with the right techniques, it can turn out juicy every time. Marinating is key, as it not only flavor but also helps keep the chicken moist.
- Make sure to marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours, but overnight is even better. This allows the flavors to really soak in.
- Preheat your grill well, as this helps in getting nice grill marks and locks in juices.
- Avoid flipping the chicken too often; let it grill undisturbed for a good 6-7 minutes on each side.
- Always use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature; 165°F is the magic number for safety.
- Let the chicken rest after grilling. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the chicken even juicier.
Cilantro Lime Chicken Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup lime juice (about 2 limes)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For Serving:
- Lime wedges, for serving
- Extra cilantro, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 15 minutes for preparation and at least 2 hours for marinating. Including cooking time, you’ll spend around 30-40 minutes in total if you marinate overnight. It’s a simple and flavorful dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a mixing bowl, combine the lime juice, olive oil, minced garlic, chopped cilantro, ground cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Whisk everything together until it’s well mixed. This marinade will add so much flavor to your chicken!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Take the chicken thighs and place them in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the prepared marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece is well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish, and then pop it in the refrigerator. Let it marinate for at least 2 hours; if you have time, letting it sit overnight makes it even tastier!
3. Grill the Chicken:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade (throw away any leftover marinade) and place the chicken on the grill. Grill each piece for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the chicken looks beautifully grilled. Once done, take the chicken off the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes, so it stays juicy.
4. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish your cilantro lime chicken with some extra chopped cilantro. Serve it with lime wedges on the side for a fresh kick of citrus. Enjoy your tasty meal!
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts will work perfectly in this recipe. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly as breasts can dry out more quickly than thighs. Grill them for about 5-6 minutes on each side, checking for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
What if I Don’t Have Fresh Cilantro?
No worries! If fresh cilantro isn’t available, you can use dried cilantro or a tablespoon of parsley for a different flavor. Just remember that dried herbs are more concentrated, so use about one-third the amount compared to fresh.
Can I Marinate the Chicken for Longer?
Yes, marinating the chicken overnight is ideal for maximum flavor. However, avoid marinating for more than 24 hours as the acidity from the lime juice can start to break down the chicken and affect its texture.
How Should I Store Leftover Cilantro Lime Chicken?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until heated through. You can also add a splash of lime juice to freshen them up when reheating!
