Cilantro Lime Chicken

Name: Cilantro Lime Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 1/2 lbs skin-on deboned chicken thighs; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 4 cloves garlic (minced); 4 tablespoons cilantro (finely chopped); 2 tablespoons lime juice; 1 teaspoon red chili flakes; 1/2 teaspoon salt

Published: June 25, 2025

by lara

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time.
Bursting with Flavor: The marinade infuses the chicken with a vibrant taste that’s hard to resist.
Versatile Cooking Methods: Enjoy it pan-fried, baked, or grilled – perfect for your cooking style!
Healthy Ingredients: Packed with lean protein and fresh herbs, this dish is both nutritious and satisfying.
Perfect for Meal Prep: Marinate ahead of time for quick weeknight dinners or lunches.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools and equipment. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking experience and make it more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Large bowl
Skillet
Baking dish
Whisk
Tongs

Importance of Each Tool

Large bowl: Ideal for marinating the chicken thoroughly, ensuring every piece is well-coated.
Skillet: Perfect for achieving that golden-brown crust on the chicken before baking.
Baking dish: Allows the chicken to cook evenly while retaining moisture.
Whisk: Essential for mixing the marinade ingredients smoothly.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade

1 1/2 lbs. (700g) skin-on deboned chicken thighs
3 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic (minced)
4 tablespoons cilantro stems and leaves (finely chopped)
2 tablespoons lime juice
1 teaspoon red chili flakes (or more to taste)
1/2 teaspoon salt (or more to taste)

For Garnishing

Lime wedges
Chopped cilantro

How to Make Cilantro Lime Chicken

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, whisk together all the marinade ingredients until well combined.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Add the chicken to the marinade, stirring to coat evenly. Allow it to marinate for 15 minutes; for optimal flavor, consider marinating for up to 2 hours.

Step 3: Pan-Fry the Chicken

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Place the chicken skin-side down and pan-fry until it’s slightly browned. Flip it over and brown the other side as well.

Step 4: Bake the Chicken

Spoon any remaining marinade over the chicken before transferring it to a baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes.

Step 5: Serve

Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a serving platter, discarding any oily drippings. Squeeze fresh lime juice over it, garnish with chopped cilantro, and serve immediately.

Enjoy your flavorful Cilantro Lime Chicken, perfect for any meal!

How to Serve Cilantro Lime Chicken

Cilantro Lime Chicken is bursting with flavors and can be enjoyed in many delicious ways. Whether you want a light meal or a hearty feast, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

Tacos

Use soft corn tortillas filled with shredded Cilantro Lime Chicken. Top with diced onions, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime for an authentic taste.

Salad

Serve sliced chicken over a bed of greens like romaine or spinach. Add cherry tomatoes, avocado slices, and a drizzle of lime vinaigrette for a refreshing salad.

Rice Bowl

Create a rice bowl by placing the marinated chicken on a scoop of cilantro-lime rice. Add black beans, corn, and pico de gallo for extra flavor.

Quesadilla

Make a quesadilla by sandwiching shredded Cilantro Lime Chicken between two tortillas with cheese. Grill until crispy and serve with salsa.

Sandwich

Slice the chicken and layer it on a toasted bun with avocado, lettuce, and tomato. A zesty aioli can add an extra kick.

Skewers

Cut the chicken into chunks and thread them onto skewers alongside bell peppers and onions. Grill for added smokiness and serve with dipping sauce.

How to Perfect Cilantro Lime Chicken

To ensure your Cilantro Lime Chicken turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

Marinate Longer: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 2 hours or overnight for deeper flavor absorption.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh cilantro and lime juice will enhance the dish’s vibrant flavors compared to dried herbs or bottled juices.
Monitor Cooking Time: Cook the chicken just until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to keep it juicy and tender.
Adjust Spice Levels: Customize the amount of red chili flakes based on your heat preference for a personalized touch.
Rest Before Serving: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after cooking to keep it moist before slicing or serving.

Best Side Dishes for Cilantro Lime Chicken

Pairing side dishes with your Cilantro Lime Chicken can elevate your meal. Here are some fantastic options that complement this flavorful dish perfectly.

Cilantro-Lime Rice: Fluffy rice seasoned with cilantro and lime juice adds freshness to your plate.
Black Beans: Rich in protein, seasoned black beans provide a hearty side that balances the flavors well.
Grilled Vegetables: Assorted grilled veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and onions bring color and nutrition to the meal.
Corn Salad: A refreshing corn salad mixed with tomatoes, red onion, and avocado makes for a delightful contrast.
Guacamole: Creamy guacamole served with tortilla chips offers a delicious dip that pairs wonderfully.
Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with spices complement the zesty chicken beautifully.
Chips & Salsa: Classic tortilla chips served with fresh salsa make an easy appetizer before enjoying your main dish.
Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with herbs and vegetables adds texture while keeping things healthy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your cooking game with Cilantro Lime Chicken. Here are some key pitfalls to watch out for:

Skipping the Marinade Time: Marinating your chicken for at least 15 minutes is crucial. A longer marination, up to 2 hours, enhances flavor and tenderness.
Using Dried Herbs Instead of Fresh: Fresh cilantro makes a big difference in taste. Always use fresh herbs for the best results.
Not Heating the Skillet First: Failing to preheat your skillet can lead to uneven cooking. Ensure it’s hot before adding the chicken for a nice sear.
Overcrowding the Pan: Cooking too many pieces at once can lower the pan temperature. Fry in batches if necessary to achieve that golden-brown exterior.
Ignoring Internal Temperature: Always check that your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safety and optimal juiciness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftover Cilantro Lime Chicken in an airtight container.
It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Cilantro Lime Chicken

Place cooled chicken in freezer-safe bags or containers.
It will last in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating Cilantro Lime Chicken

Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken on a baking tray and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish and cover with a lid or plastic wrap. Heat on medium power in short intervals until heated thoroughly.
Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or broth and cover, allowing it to steam until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Cilantro Lime Chicken:

Can I use other types of meat for this recipe?

Yes! You can substitute chicken thighs with turkey, beef, or lamb while keeping the marinade ingredients the same.

How do I make Cilantro Lime Chicken spicier?

To add more heat, increase the amount of red chili flakes in the marinade or serve with a spicy sauce.

Can I grill Cilantro Lime Chicken?

Absolutely! This recipe is perfect for grilling. Just follow the same marinade steps and grill on medium-high heat until cooked through.

What sides pair well with Cilantro Lime Chicken?

This dish pairs nicely with rice, beans, or a fresh salad. You can also serve it with tortillas for a delicious wrap!

Final Thoughts

Cilantro Lime Chicken is not only flavorful but also versatile enough to fit various meal occasions. You can customize this dish by adding different spices or serving it with various sides. Try it today and enjoy its refreshing taste!

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