Cilantro Lime Chicken Recipe
This Cilantro Lime Chicken is a versatile and straightforward dish that can be prepared by grilling, pan-searing, or baking. The marinade is packed with vibrant flavors, resulting in chicken that is tender, juicy, and irresistibly delicious. This recipe, inspired by Mexican cuisine, is sure to become a household favorite.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds of chicken breasts or thighs 4 small to medium pieces*
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 3 cloves garlic finely minced
- 3 tablespoons cilantro finely chopped (plus extra for garnishing)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon ground paprika
- 1 lime sliced into wedges for serving
Instructions
- How to Make Cilantro Lime Chicken
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, garlic, cilantro, salt, pepper, paprika, and honey to create the marinade.
- Submerge the chicken in the marinade, ensuring it is evenly coated. Allow it to marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours for optimal flavor infusion.
- Choose your preferred cooking method below and follow the instructions. Garnish with additional cilantro and serve with lime wedges.
- Grilling Instructions
- Preheat the grill to medium heat.
- Cook the chicken for 4–5 minutes per side, depending on the thickness, until thoroughly cooked and no longer pink inside.*
- Skillet Instructions
- Heat a large, non-stick skillet or grill pan over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of oil.
- Place the chicken in a single layer and cook for 4–5 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked.* If the chicken pieces are particularly thick, cover the skillet with a lid after flipping to ensure even cooking.
- Baking Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Arrange the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or in a large casserole dish. Bake uncovered for approximately 20 minutes, or until cooked through.
Notes
To ensure even cooking and tenderize the meat, place unevenly sized chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap and gently pound them to achieve a uniform thickness.