Description
A fresh and zesty Cilantro Lime Chicken recipe featuring marinated grilled chicken breasts infused with garlic, lime juice, and chopped cilantro. Perfect for a light and flavorful main course that is easy to prepare and packed with vibrant citrus and herb flavors.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
Chicken
- 4 chicken breasts (about 7-8 ounces each)
Marinade
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 4 limes (juiced)
- 1/2 tablespoon coarse salt
- Black pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped fresh cilantro, minced garlic, lime juice, coarse salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated to create the marinade.
- Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken breasts to the marinade, ensuring each piece is evenly coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to infuse.
- Prepare the Chicken for Grilling: Remove the marinated chicken from the fridge and pat each piece dry with paper towels. Drizzle a small amount of oil over the chicken breasts to prevent sticking during cooking.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to high heat, preparing it for direct cooking of the chicken breasts.
- Grill the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts on the preheated grill. Cook each side for about 4 to 5 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F to ensure doneness. Use a meat thermometer for best results.
- Serve: Once cooked through, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest briefly before serving, allowing the juices to redistribute.
Notes
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken overnight in the refrigerator.
- If a grill is not available, chicken can be cooked on a stovetop grill pan or baked in the oven at 375°F for 20-25 minutes.
- Use fresh lime juice for the best citrus flavor.
- Adjust salt and pepper according to your taste preferences.
- Let the chicken rest 5 minutes after grilling to retain juiciness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast (about 7-8 ounces)
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 7 g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 3 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 45 g
- Cholesterol: 120 mg
