Description
Cilantro Lime Chicken is juicy, flavorful, and bursting with bright citrus and herb flavor. This easy recipe is perfect for grilling, baking, or pan-searing, and it’s great for meal prep, tacos, salads, or rice bowls. Ready in under 30 minutes!
Ingredients
-
1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
-
1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
-
2 tablespoons lime zest
-
1/4 cup olive oil
-
1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
-
3 cloves garlic, minced
-
1 teaspoon ground cumin
-
1 teaspoon chili powder
-
1/2 teaspoon salt
-
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
-
Optional: lime wedges and extra cilantro for serving
Instructions
-
Make the marinade:
In a bowl or zip-top bag, mix lime juice, lime zest, olive oil, cilantro, garlic, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. -
Marinate the chicken:
Add the chicken to the marinade, making sure it’s fully coated. Let it marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, or up to 8 hours for more flavor. -
Cook the chicken (choose your method):
-
Grill: Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Grill chicken for 5–6 minutes per side, or until internal temp reaches 165°F.
-
Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook 5–6 minutes per side, until cooked through.
-
Bake: Preheat oven to 400°F. Place chicken in a baking dish and bake for 20–25 minutes, depending on thickness.
-
Air Fryer: Preheat to 380°F and cook chicken for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway.
-
-
Rest and serve:
Let chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve with lime wedges and extra cilantro if desired.
Notes
-
Great for tacos, burrito bowls, or slicing over salads.
-
Chicken thighs stay extra juicy, but breasts work just as well.
-
Can be frozen in marinade for easy freezer meals.