How do I make grilled cilantro lime chicken tender and flavorful?

To make tender and flavorful grilled cilantro lime chicken, start by marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours, in a mixture of lime juice, chopped cilantro, garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper. The acidity of the lime juice helps tenderize the meat while the cilantro adds fresh herb notes. Grill the chicken over medium-high heat for 6-8 minutes per side, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Let the chicken rest a few minutes before serving to retain its juiciness.

Can I cook cilantro lime chicken in the oven instead of grilling it?

Yes, you can bake cilantro lime chicken in the oven as an alternative to grilling. Preheat your oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper. Shake off excess marinade and place the chicken on the sheet. Roast for about 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and the juices run clear. Baking retains flavor while providing a convenient indoor cooking option.

What sides go well with grilled cilantro lime chicken?

Grilled cilantro lime chicken pairs well with a variety of sides such as Mexican rice, black beans, corn salad, or grilled vegetables. Fresh options like avocado slices, chopped tomatoes, and a simple green salad complement the zesty flavors. For a low-carb option, serve with cauliflower rice or steamed broccoli. These choices create a balanced meal with vibrant flavors that enhance the chicken’s citrus and herb notes.

How long should I marinate cilantro lime chicken for the best flavor?

Marinate cilantro lime chicken for a minimum of 30 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse, but for best results, let it marinate for 2 to 4 hours. Avoid marinating longer than 6 hours as the lime juice’s acidity can break down the chicken’s texture too much, leading to a mushy consistency. Refrigerate the chicken while marinating to keep it safe.

Is grilled cilantro lime chicken healthy for meal prep?

Yes, grilled cilantro lime chicken is a healthy and convenient option for meal prep. It’s high in protein and low in fat when using skinless chicken breasts or thighs. The marinade’s fresh ingredients like lime juice and cilantro add flavor without extra calories. Prepare a batch and store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Pair it with vegetables and whole grains for balanced, ready-to-eat meals throughout the week.

Grilled Cilantro Lime Chicken Recipe With Zesty Fresh Marinade

Name: Grilled Cilantro Lime Chicken
Prep time: PT-488282H37M57S
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 1 h 25 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: – 3 pounds skinless chicken thighs; – 4 limes, zested and juiced; – 1 cup roughly chopped cilantro leaves and stems; – ½ cup extra virgin olive oil; – 2 tablespoons honey; – 1 tablespoon cumin; – 1 teaspoon kosher salt; – 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Description

🌿 This Grilled Cilantro Lime Chicken recipe features a fresh, zesty marinade that infuses the chicken with vibrant flavors.
🔥 Perfect for outdoor grilling or weeknight dinners, it’s an easy way to enjoy juicy, flavorful chicken packed with citrus and herbs.

Ingredients

– 3 pounds skinless chicken thighs

– 4 limes, zested and juiced

– 1 cup roughly chopped cilantro leaves and stems

– ½ cup extra virgin olive oil

– 2 tablespoons honey

– 1 tablespoon cumin

– 1 teaspoon kosher salt

– 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

1-First, prepare the marinade: Combine the 3 pounds of skinless chicken thighs with 4 limes zested and juiced, 1 cup of roughly chopped cilantro leaves and stems, ½ cup of extra virgin olive oil, 2 tablespoons of honey, 1 tablespoon of cumin, 1 teaspoon of kosher salt, and 1 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper in a bowl. Let the chicken soak up these flavors for at least 30 minutes to make it tender and tasty.

2-Next, fire up your grill to medium-high heat, around 400°F. Place the marinated chicken on the grill grates, cooking for about 6-7 minutes per side until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Keep an eye on it to avoid any dry spots, and let it rest for a few minutes after grilling.

3-Once it’s done, garnish with extra cilantro for that fresh pop. This method ensures juicy, flavorful results every time, and it’s a hit for busy parents or food enthusiasts alike.

Notes

🔥 Marinate the chicken for longer to deepen the flavors.
🌿 Use extra cilantro in the marinade and as a garnish for added freshness.
🍯 Balance the honey sweetness with extra lime juice if you prefer tangier flavors.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Marinating time: 1-4 hours
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Grilling
Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 chicken thigh
Calories: 320 kcal
Sugar: 5 g
Sodium: 480 mg
Fat: 20 g
Saturated Fat: 3 g
Unsaturated Fat: 16 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 8 g
Fiber: 1 g
Protein: 30 g
Cholesterol: 90 mg

Keywords: Grilled Chicken, Cilantro Lime, Zesty Marinade, Easy Dinner