Cilantro Lime Chicken Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cilantro Lime Chicken is a zesty, flavorful dish that’s perfect for grilling, pan-searing, or baking. The bright lime and fresh cilantro make it a refreshing choice for any season, while garlic and spices add depth. It’s versatile enough for tacos, salads, bowls, or served on its own with a side of rice.

ingredients

this Recipe

Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.

boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
fresh cilantro, chopped
lime juice and zest
garlic, minced
olive oil
honey
ground cumin
chili powder
salt
black pepper

directions

In a bowl or zip-top bag, combine lime juice, lime zest, chopped cilantro, garlic, olive oil, honey, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper to make the marinade.

Add the chicken to the marinade, ensuring it’s fully coated. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, preferably 2–4 hours.

Preheat grill, skillet, or oven to medium-high heat (400°F/200°C for oven).

Grill or sear the chicken for 5–7 minutes per side, or until cooked through and juices run clear. If baking, place on a lined baking sheet and roast for 20–25 minutes.

Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.

Garnish with extra chopped cilantro and lime wedges if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Marinating time: 30 minutes to 4 hours
Cooking time: 15–25 minutes
Total time: up to 45 minutes (plus marinating)

Variations

Add jalapeño or red pepper flakes for heat.
Use orange juice in place of honey for a citrus twist.
Serve over cilantro lime rice or quinoa for a full meal.
Slice and use in tacos, burrito bowls, or salads.
Swap chicken for shrimp and reduce cook time.

storage/reheating

Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or microwave in 1-minute intervals.
Freeze cooked chicken for up to 2 months—thaw before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use bottled lime juice?
Fresh lime juice is best for flavor, but bottled works in a pinch.

How long can I marinate the chicken?
2–4 hours is ideal; avoid marinating longer than 12 hours to prevent mushy texture.

Can I grill this chicken outdoors?
Yes, it’s perfect for outdoor grilling—cook until internal temp reaches 165°F.

Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally dairy-free.

Is this recipe spicy?
Not unless you add extra spice. Adjust chili powder or add heat as desired.

Can I make this in the air fryer?
Yes, air fry at 375°F for about 15 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Conclusion

Cilantro Lime Chicken is a fresh, bold, and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for weeknights or entertaining. Its vibrant flavors pair beautifully with a variety of sides and styles, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion. Whether grilled, baked, or pan-seared, it’s always juicy, tender, and full of zest.

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