Description
Zesty cilantro lime grilled chicken delivers a Mexican-inspired flavor explosion that dances on dinner plates. Marinated in bright herbs and citrus, this juicy chicken promises a quick, delicious meal you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
Marinade Liquids:
- ¼ cup (60 milliliters) olive oil
- ¼ cup (60 milliliters) freshly squeezed lime juice (about 2 limes)
Herbs and Seasonings:
- 2 tablespoons lime zest
- ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon chili powder (optional, for a kick)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Craft a vibrant marinade by combining zesty lime juice and fragrant zest with verdant cilantro, minced garlic, golden honey, earthy cumin, spicy chili powder, and seasoning for a flavor-packed coating.
- Immerse chicken pieces thoroughly in the marinade, ensuring complete coverage, then seal in a container and allow flavors to meld in the refrigerator for a minimum of half an hour or up to eight hours for maximum taste infusion.
- Heat outdoor grill to a medium-high temperature, creating ideal charring conditions for the marinated chicken.
- Carefully remove chicken from marinade, letting excess liquid drip away, and place directly on preheated grill grates.
- Cook chicken methodically, turning once midway through grilling, for approximately 6-8 minutes per side until golden brown and internal temperature reaches a safe 165°F.
- Remove chicken from grill and let it rest for 5 minutes, allowing juices to redistribute and ensuring optimal tenderness.
- Slice chicken against the grain and garnish with fresh cilantro sprigs and vibrant lime wedges for an extra burst of citrusy brightness.
Notes
- Swap out honey for agave nectar or maple syrup to make the recipe vegan-friendly and maintain the same sweet undertone.
- Use less chili powder or omit entirely for a milder version that’s perfect for those with sensitive taste buds.
- Maximize flavor absorption by piercing chicken with a fork before marinating, allowing the tangy lime and aromatic cilantro to penetrate deeper into the meat.
- For a low-carb option, serve the grilled chicken over a crisp salad instead of traditional sides, keeping the meal light and nutritious.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 200 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 4 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 27 g
- Cholesterol: 80 mg