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Cilantro Lime Grilled Chicken

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  • Author: Molly Yeh
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes (plus marinating time)
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired

Description

This Cilantro Lime Grilled Chicken is juicy, zesty, and full of fresh flavor. Marinated in a blend of lime juice, garlic, olive oil, and cilantro, it’s perfect for summer grilling or weeknight meals. Serve it with rice, tacos, or a fresh salad!


Ingredients

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

  • 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)

  • 2 tablespoons lime zest

  • 1/4 cup olive oil

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin

  • 1 teaspoon salt

  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

  • Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes for heat


Instructions

  1. In a bowl or zip-top bag, whisk together lime juice, lime zest, olive oil, garlic, cilantro, cumin, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.

  2. Add chicken breasts and coat evenly in the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, preferably 2–4 hours.

  3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.

  4. Remove chicken from marinade and shake off excess.

  5. Grill chicken for 5–7 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and chicken is nicely charred.

  6. Remove from grill and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.

  7. Serve with lime wedges and extra chopped cilantro, if desired.


Notes

  • For extra tender chicken, pound the breasts to even thickness before marinating.

  • You can also grill this on a stovetop grill pan or use chicken thighs if preferred.

  • Leftovers work great in tacos, salads, or burrito bowls.


Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
  • Calories: 280
  • Sugar: 0g
  • Sodium: 450mg
  • Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 2.5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 2g
  • Fiber: 0.5g
  • Protein: 34g
  • Cholesterol: 95mg