Cilantro-Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa

Lightly charred, tender grilled cilantro-lime chicken with avocado salsa is the perfect dish for any occasion. This refreshing recipe combines bright lime flavors with creamy avocado, making it an ideal option for summer barbecues, family dinners, or casual get-togethers. The cilantro-lime chicken is simple to prepare and bursting with flavor, while the avocado salsa adds a delightful twist that elevates the dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With only 20 minutes of total time, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful and Fresh: The combination of lime and cilantro creates a zesty marinade that infuses the chicken with rich flavors.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as a main course or slice it up for tacos, salads, or grain bowls.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with lean protein and healthy fats from avocados, this dish fits well into various dietary plans.
• Crowd-Pleaser: The vibrant colors and delicious taste will impress your family and friends at any gathering.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delicious cilantro-lime chicken with avocado salsa, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure everything runs smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill or Grill Pan
• Mixing Bowls
• Whisk
• Knife and Cutting Board

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill or Grill Pan: Provides that wonderful charred flavor and keeps the chicken juicy while cooking.
• Mixing Bowls: Ideal for marinating the chicken and preparing the salsa without mixing flavors prematurely.
• Whisk: Helps combine the marinade ingredients thoroughly for even flavor distribution.
• Knife and Cutting Board: Essential for chopping vegetables quickly and safely.

Ingredients

Lightly charred, tender grilled cilantro-lime chicken breasts topped with the most refreshing and bright, lime-infused avocado salsa!

For the Chicken

• 4 (6 oz) boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 1 Tbsp lime zest
• 1/3 cup fresh lime juice
• 1/4 cup olive oil (plus more for brushing grill)
• 1 1/2 tsp honey
• 1/3 cup chopped cilantro (plus more for serving)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper

For the Avocado Salsa

• 1 1/2 medium avocados (ripe but semi-firm, diced)
• 2 medium Roma tomatoes (chopped)
• 1/2 cup chopped red onion (rinsed under cool water to remove harsh bite)
• 1 clove garlic (minced)
• 1 Tbsp fresh lime juice

How to Make Cilantro-Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

• In a mixing bowl, combine lime zest, fresh lime juice, olive oil, honey, chopped cilantro, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
• Whisk until well blended.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

• Place chicken breasts in a shallow dish or resealable bag.
• Pour marinade over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are coated.
• Refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

Step 3: Make the Avocado Salsa

• In another mixing bowl, combine diced avocados, chopped tomatoes, rinsed red onion, minced garlic, and fresh lime juice.
• Gently toss until combined. Season with salt to taste.

Step 4: Grill the Chicken

• Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Brush grates with olive oil to prevent sticking.
• Remove chicken from marinade; discard leftover marinade.
• Grill chicken breasts for about 5 minutes on each side or until fully cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).

Step 5: Serve

• Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing.
• Top each serving with a generous scoop of avocado salsa and additional chopped cilantro if desired. Enjoy!

How to Serve Cilantro-Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa

Cilantro-Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa is a vibrant and flavorful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

Tacos

• Soft corn tortillas filled with sliced cilantro-lime chicken, topped with avocado salsa for a fresh and zesty bite.

Salad

• Serve the chicken over a bed of mixed greens, adding the avocado salsa on top for a nutritious and colorful meal.

Rice Bowls

• Combine cilantro-lime chicken with brown or white rice, then add avocado salsa and black beans for a hearty bowl.

Quesadillas

• Stuff quesadillas with shredded cilantro-lime chicken and cheese, then serve with avocado salsa on the side for dipping.

How to Perfect Cilantro-Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa

Achieving the perfect cilantro-lime chicken takes some attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your dish shines.

• Marinate properly: Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to fully penetrate the meat.
• Preheat your grill: Ensure your grill is hot before placing the chicken on it. This helps achieve a nice char without drying out the meat.
• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh limes and ripe avocados make a significant difference in flavor. Opt for high-quality produce when possible.
• Avoid overcooking: Cook the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to keep it tender and juicy.

Best Side Dishes for Cilantro-Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa

Cilantro-Lime Chicken pairs beautifully with several side dishes. Here are some great options to complement your meal.

1. Mexican Street Corn
   Grilled corn coated in lime, chili powder, and vegan mayo creates a sweet and spicy contrast that complements the chicken perfectly.
2. Quinoa Salad
   A light quinoa salad mixed with diced cucumbers, bell peppers, and lime dressing adds texture and nutrition alongside the main dish.
3. Black Beans
   Simple seasoned black beans provide a hearty side that’s rich in protein and pairs well with lime flavors.
4. Sweet Potato Fries
   Crispy baked sweet potato fries offer a delicious sweet contrast to the savory flavors of the chicken.
5. Grilled Vegetables
   A medley of grilled zucchini, bell peppers, and onions brings color and health benefits while enhancing the overall taste experience.
6. Cilantro Lime Rice
   Fluffy rice tossed with cilantro and lime juice mirrors the dish’s flavor profile, making it an excellent accompaniment.
7. Chips and Guacamole
   Crunchy tortilla chips served alongside fresh guacamole create a fun starter or snack that will please any crowd.
8. Pico de Gallo
   Fresh tomato salsa brightens up your plate while adding additional layers of flavor that pair wonderfully with cilantro-lime chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking cilantro-lime chicken with avocado salsa can be simple, but there are a few common mistakes that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture.

• Using Overcooked Chicken: Overcooking the chicken makes it dry. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F for perfect juiciness.
• Neglecting Marinade Time: Rushing the marinade time can lead to bland chicken. Marinate for at least 30 minutes for more flavor.
• Inconsistent Dice on Vegetables: Unevenly diced veggies can alter the texture of your salsa. Aim for uniform pieces for a better bite.
• Skipping Fresh Ingredients: Using stale or non-fresh ingredients diminishes taste. Always opt for fresh herbs and ripe avocados.
• Ignoring Seasoning: Underseasoning can result in flat flavors. Don’t hold back on salt and pepper; they enhance the overall taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Cilantro-Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa

• Place cooled chicken and salsa separately in freezer-safe containers.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Cilantro-Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, cover the chicken with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals (30 seconds), checking often to avoid overcooking.
• Stovetop: Warm on medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth if necessary to keep moist.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is cilantro-lime chicken?

Cilantro-lime chicken is grilled chicken marinated with lime juice, zest, and fresh cilantro, providing a zesty flavor profile.

Can I make cilantro-lime chicken ahead of time?

Yes! You can marinate the chicken ahead of time and grill it when ready to serve.

How do I customize the avocado salsa?

You can add ingredients like jalapeños, corn, or black beans to enhance the flavor and texture of your avocado salsa.

What should I serve with cilantro-lime chicken?

Pair it with rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad for a complete meal that balances the bright flavors of the dish.

Final Thoughts

Cilantro-lime chicken with avocado salsa is not just delicious; it’s also versatile enough for any occasion. Perfect as a main dish or served in tacos, this recipe invites customization based on your favorite ingredients. Give it a try and enjoy this refreshing twist on grilled chicken!

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Cilantro-Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa

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• Author: Lara
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Enjoy tender Cilantro-Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa that’s bursting with flavor! Try this easy recipe today for a refreshing meal experience!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 (6 oz) boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 1 Tbsp lime zest
• 1/3 cup fresh lime juice
• 1/4 cup olive oil (plus more for brushing grill)
• 1 1/2 tsp honey
• 1/3 cup chopped cilantro (plus more for serving)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 1 1/2 medium avocados (ripe but semi-firm, diced)
• 2 medium Roma tomatoes (chopped)
• 1/2 cup chopped red onion (rinsed under cool water to remove harsh bite)
• 1 clove garlic (minced)
• 1 Tbsp fresh lime juice

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Instructions

1. In a mixing bowl, combine lime zest, fresh lime juice, olive oil, honey, chopped cilantro, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Whisk until well blended.
2. Place chicken breasts in a shallow dish or resealable bag. Pour marinade over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are coated. Refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
3. In another mixing bowl, combine diced avocados, chopped tomatoes, rinsed red onion, minced garlic, and fresh lime juice. Gently toss until combined. Season with salt to taste.
4. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Brush grates with olive oil to prevent sticking. Remove chicken from marinade; discard leftover marinade. Grill chicken breasts for about 5 minutes on each side or until fully cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
5. Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. Top each serving with a generous scoop of avocado salsa and additional chopped cilantro if desired. Enjoy!

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with salsa (approximately 210g)
• Calories: 400
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 220mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 18g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fiber: 8g
• Protein: 32g
• Cholesterol: 100mg