This Cilantro Lime Chicken is fresh and zesty, making it a tasty option for any meal! It’s marinated in a lively mix of lime juice and cilantro that brings tons of flavor.
I love how easy it is to whip up this dish and feel like a kitchen superstar. Pair it with rice or throw it on a salad, and you’ve got yourself a winner! 🌟
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Boneless, skinless thighs stay juicy and flavorful, making them great for grilling. If you prefer, you can use chicken breasts, but keep in mind they may dry out more easily. Bone-in thighs also add extra flavor but will take longer to cook.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a bright, herby taste. If you’re not a fan, parsley is a good alternative—though it won’t have the same flavor. Dried cilantro can work in a pinch, but fresh is always best for this recipe!
Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice brightens the dish. If you’re in a bind, bottled lime juice is okay but try to avoid it if you can—that fresh squeeze really makes a difference!
Garlic: Fresh garlic is key here. You can substitute with garlic powder (1 teaspoon for 1 clove) but fresh has a stronger flavor that enhances the marinade.
How Do I Make the Best Marinade for My Chicken?
Creating the marinade is simple but crucial for flavor. This step infuses the chicken with all the delicious notes you want. Here’s how to do it:
- Combine cilantro, lime juice, olive oil, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper in a bowl.
- Mix well until you have a smooth marinade.
- Make sure your chicken is well-coated in the marinade. If time permits, let it sit for a longer marinating period for deeper flavor.
For even more flavor, consider marinating overnight! Just remember to discard any leftover marinade before grilling to ensure safe cooking.
How to Make Cilantro Lime Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
For the Marinade:
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 3 tablespoons lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For Garnish:
- Lime wedges
- Additional cilantro
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Cilantro Lime Chicken takes about 10 minutes to prepare and requires a marinade time of at least 30 minutes (or a maximum of 4 hours). Once marinated, grilling will take about 15 minutes. In total, plan for about 55 minutes, including prep and cooking time.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, combine the chopped cilantro, freshly squeezed lime juice, olive oil, minced garlic, ground cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Use a whisk or a fork to mix everything well until it forms a smooth marinade.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the chicken thighs to the bowl with the marinade. Make sure to coat them completely with the mixture. Once well-covered, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or for a richer flavor, let it soak for up to 4 hours.
3. Grill the Chicken:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess marinade drip off (but don’t rinse it off!). Place the chicken thighs on the grill and cook them for about 6-7 minutes on each side. Look for a nice char and make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safe eating.
4. Rest and Serve:
Once the chicken is cooked through, transfer it to a plate and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps the juices distribute throughout the meat, making it tender and juicy. Before serving, garnish with additional cilantro and lime wedges for a fresh touch. Enjoy your flavorful Cilantro Lime Chicken!
Can I Use Bone-In Chicken Thighs Instead?
Yes, you can! Just keep in mind that bone-in chicken thighs will take longer to cook. Aim for about 10-12 minutes on each side, ensuring the internal temperature still reaches 165°F. A meat thermometer is your best friend here!
What Can I Substitute for Olive Oil?
If you don’t have olive oil, canola oil or avocado oil are great alternatives. They both have a high smoke point and won’t alter the flavor too much, allowing that delicious cilantro-lime flavor to shine through!
Can I Make the Marinade Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can make the marinade up to 2 days in advance. Just keep it in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to use it, add the chicken and let it marinate as instructed for the best flavor.
How to Store Leftover Cilantro Lime Chicken?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the microwave or on a skillet over low heat until warmed through. This way, it won’t dry out and will stay juicy!
