This Cilantro Lime Chicken is bursting with fresh flavors! Juicy chicken is marinated in a zesty mix of lime juice and cilantro, making it super tasty and bright.
It’s so easy to whip up, you’ll feel like a kitchen pro. I love serving it with rice or on tacos—perfect for sunny days or anytime you need a flavor boost!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: I love using boneless, skinless chicken thighs for this dish because they’re juicier compared to chicken breasts. If you prefer, you can substitute with chicken breasts, but they might need a bit more marinade to stay moist.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro gives this chicken a bright flavor. If you’re not a cilantro fan, parsley is a great substitute, though it will change the taste a bit. Some people also use mint for a fresh twist!
Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice is key for that zesty kick. If you’re in a pinch, bottled lime juice works too, but I recommend fresh for the best taste. You could also try lemon juice if limes aren’t available, but the flavor will be slightly different.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic boosts flavor significantly. If you only have garlic powder, about 1/2 teaspoon can work, but don’t expect the same depth. Roasted garlic adds a sweeter, milder taste if you’re looking for something unique.
How Do I Perfectly Grill Chicken Thighs?
Grilling chicken thighs doesn’t have to be tricky! Here’s how to make sure they come out perfectly every time:
- Start with a good marinade—let the chicken soak for at least 30 minutes, but 4 hours is even better!
- Preheat your grill to medium-high. This gives the chicken nice grill marks without drying it out.
- Don’t rush—cook for 6-7 minutes on each side. Use a meat thermometer to check for 165°F (75°C).
- After grilling, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps keep it juicy.
Following these steps will give you tender and flavorful chicken every time! Enjoy it with lime wedges on the side for that extra zing.
How to Make Cilantro Lime Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Marinade:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup lime juice (about 2 limes)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving:
- Lime wedges
- Additional cilantro, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare the marinade, plus a minimum of 30 minutes to marinate the chicken (you can marinate it for up to 4 hours if you want more flavor). Cooking the chicken on the grill will take an additional 15 minutes. In total, you’re looking at around 55 minutes, but most of that is hands-off time while the chicken marinates!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a mixing bowl, combine the lime juice, olive oil, minced garlic, chopped cilantro, ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until well mixed—this will be the flavorful marinade for your chicken!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the chicken thighs to the marinade and make sure they are well coated all over. After that, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and pop it in the refrigerator. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for a deeper flavor.
3. Get Ready to Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you’re using a grill pan on the stove, just heat it up over medium-high heat until hot. While waiting, remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing any excess marinade to drip off.
4. Grill the Chicken:
Place the chicken thighs on the grill and cook them for about 6-7 minutes on each side. You’ll know they’re done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and there are nice grill marks on the chicken.
5. Let It Rest and Serve:
Once your chicken is cooked, take it off the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps keep the chicken juicy! When ready, serve the grilled chicken with lime wedges on the side and garnish with more cilantro. Enjoy your tasty cilantro lime chicken!
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts can be used, but keep in mind they may cook faster, so check for doneness at about 5-6 minutes per side. Chicken breasts can often dry out, so consider marinating for the full 4 hours for maximum flavor and moisture.
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Cilantro?
No problem! You can substitute fresh cilantro with 1 tablespoon of dried cilantro or even use parsley for a milder flavor. Just remember that the dried herb won’t be as vibrant, so adjust the amount based on your taste preference.
How to Store Leftover Cilantro Lime Chicken?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of lime juice to keep it juicy and flavorful.
Can I Make the Marinade Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the marinade a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just be sure to mix well before adding the chicken, as the ingredients may separate. Marinating the chicken afterward will still yield delicious results!
