Cilantro Lime Chicken
Try this Cilantro Lime Chicken recipe.
Try this Cilantro Lime Chicken recipe.
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon lime zest
- 1 small shallot minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh-squeezed lime juice (from one small lime or
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breast halves (about 2
- 1 tablespoon ghee (i useâ homemadeâ orâ pure indian foods) or coco
- lime wedges
 and sprigs of fresh cilantro for serving
- Carbohydrate 1.73252858151727 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Fat 6.5049513861759 g
- Fiber 0.317661247266147 g
- Protein 0.388948142433742 g
- Saturated Fat 0.895245357971403 g
- Serving Size 1 1 -6 serving (21g)
- Sodium 222.324275685934 mg
- Sugar 1.41486733425112 g
- Trans Fat 0.192901289366768 g
- Calories 65 calories
Step-by-step
- Whisk together the olive oil, lime zest and juice, garlic, shallot, cilantro, salt, and pepper in a medium bowl.
- Place the chicken breasts in a large bowl or baking dish and prick in several places on both sides with a fork.
- Pour the marinade over the chicken, turning to coat the pieces evenly.
- Cover and refrigerate for 2-4 hours.
- Remove the chicken from the refrigerator about 20 minutes before you plan to cook it.
- Place the ghee in a grill pan over medium-high heat (if you plan to use a real grill, even better).
- Remove any large pieces of garlic or shallot from the chicken so they won't burn during cooking, and discard the marinade.
- When the pan is very hot, add the chicken and reduce the heat a bit.
- Cook undisturbed for 5-7 minutes, until nicely browned on the bottom.
- Flip the chicken pieces with tongs and cook for 8-10 minutes on the second side, or until fully cooked (juices should run clear and there should be no pink left inside the thickest part of the chicken).
- If the chicken breasts are large, they may need to cook for another few minutes on the first side.
- Remove the chicken to a platter and cover it loosely with foil.
- Let the chicken rest for at least five minutes, then serve hot or warm with lime wedges and cilantro sprigs.
- Alternatively, slice the chicken into strips and serve it on top of a salad.
Cilantro Lime Chicken: A Weeknight Winner
As a busy working mom, I’m always on the lookout for quick, healthy, and flavorful recipes that the whole family will enjoy. This Cilantro Lime Chicken fits the bill perfectly. It’s ready in under an hour, requires minimal prep time, and boasts a vibrant, zesty flavor that elevates even the simplest side dishes.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. The marinade, a harmonious blend of fresh lime juice, cilantro, garlic, and shallot, infuses the chicken with incredible flavor. The chicken itself is incredibly juicy and tender, thanks to the brief marinating time and careful cooking. I often use this as a base and adapt it based on what fresh herbs I have on hand— sometimes adding a touch of oregano or even a little diced jalapeño for a spicy kick.
One of the things I appreciate most about this recipe is its versatility. It’s equally delicious served hot off the grill or pan-fried to perfection. I often serve it with a side of fluffy rice, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad. The leftovers are fantastic for lunch the next day, too—I love to slice it up and add it to tacos or quesadillas for a quick and easy meal.
Why this recipe works:
Flavor Profile: The vibrant combination of lime and cilantro delivers a fresh and zesty flavor that's both bright and satisfying.
Simplicity: The recipe is straightforward and easy to follow, even for beginner cooks.
Versatility: The cooked chicken can be used in a variety of dishes, from salads and tacos to rice bowls and sandwiches.
Health Benefits: It's a healthy meal option packed with protein and flavor.
Time Efficiency: The short marinating time and quick cooking process make it a perfect weeknight dinner solution.
Make it your own: Feel free to experiment with other herbs and spices to customize the flavor to your liking. A dash of cumin or paprika would add a lovely warmth to the dish.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve the chicken on top of a bed of fluffy rice.
- Pair it with roasted vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or sweet potatoes.
- Create a vibrant salad with mixed greens, avocado, and cherry tomatoes.
- Use the chicken in tacos, quesadillas, or burrito bowls.
- Serve it as a main course with a side of Mexican street corn.
Beyond its culinary excellence, this dish has become a staple in our family dinners because of its ease of preparation. It’s a recipe that I can confidently whip up even on the busiest of days. The fragrant aromas wafting from the kitchen always bring a smile to my children's faces, a sign that dinner is a success.
This Cilantro Lime Chicken is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of fresh ingredients and simple cooking. It's a recipe that embodies my belief that delicious food doesn't have to be complicated. Give it a try and I am confident you will find yourself making it again and again!
Ingredients you'll need:
This recipe calls for simple, fresh ingredients that are readily available at most grocery stores. Make sure you have these on hand before you start cooking!
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Fresh cilantro
- Lime (both zest and juice)
- Garlic
- Shallot
- Olive oil
- Ghee (or coconut oil)
- Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper
I hope you enjoy this Cilantro Lime Chicken recipe as much as my family does. It's a winner for any night of the week!
