If you’re looking for a quick, flavorful dish that will tantalize your taste buds and impress your family and friends, look no further than Cilantro Lime Chicken.
This delightful recipe is a celebration of fresh, vibrant flavors, and the best part is, you can have it on the table in just 20 minutes! Perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute entertaining, Cilantro Lime Chicken combines the aromatic essence of cilantro with the tangy zest of lime, creating a dish that’s as easy to prepare as it is delicious.
The beauty of Cilantro Lime Chicken lies in its simplicity and the harmonious blend of its key ingredients. Cilantro, with its fresh and slightly citrusy taste, pairs wonderfully with the bright, acidic notes of lime. This dynamic duo not only adds incredible flavor but also brings a burst of color to your plate, making your meal as visually appealing as it is tasty.
One of the biggest advantages of Cilantro Lime Chicken is how incredibly easy it is to prepare. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, this dish is perfect for those who want to whip up something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. All you need is some chicken, fresh cilantro, lime, garlic, and a few pantry staples. The recipe is straightforward and beginner-friendly, making it an excellent choice for cooks of all skill levels.
Ingredients to make Keto Cilantro Lime Chicken
- Chicken thighs (boneless, skinless)
- Lime juice
- Cilantro leaves, chopped
- Olive oil
- Ground Cumin
- Garlic powder
- Chili powder
- Black pepper
- Paprika
- Sea salt
- Red Pepper Flakes
How to make Cilantro Lime Chicken
Here’s a brief rundown of the process: start by marinating the chicken in lime juice, cilantro, garlic, and seasonings. This step infuses the meat with a punch of flavor, ensuring every bite is bursting with zest. After a short marination, the chicken is quickly cooked to perfection in a skillet or on the grill. The result is juicy, tender chicken with a beautifully charred exterior and an irresistible aroma that will have everyone gathered around the table in no time.
- In a medium bowl, mix the marinade: lime juice, cilantro, 2 tablespoons olive oil, honey, cumin, garlic powder, chili powder, paprika, red pepper flakes, salt and pepper.
Add the chicken to the marinade, cover, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes and up to 8 hours. - Heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken thighs to the hot skillet.
- Cook the thighs for 5 minutes; flip and continue to cook for 6 to 8 more minutes or until cooked through and golden brown.
- Transfer the chicken to a serving platter, drizzle it with the reserved marinade, and serve it with lime wedges.
Cilantro Lime Chicken is not only quick and easy but also incredibly versatile. It can be served in various ways to suit your preferences and dietary needs. Pair it with a simple side of steamed vegetables or a fresh garden salad, or even wrapped in warm tortillas for delicious cilantro lime chicken tacos. The possibilities are endless, and each variation promises a delightful dining experience.
Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, a casual get-together, or a special occasion, Cilantro Lime Chicken is a guaranteed hit. Its vibrant flavors and appealing presentation make it suitable for both everyday meals and festive gatherings. Plus, its quick preparation time means you can spend less time cooking and more time enjoying your meal with love ones.
In addition to being delicious and easy to prepare, Cilantro Lime Chicken is a healthier option compared to many other dishes. The use of fresh ingredients and lean chicken makes it a nutritious choice that doesn’t compromise on flavor. It’s a great way to enjoy a satisfying meal while sticking to your health goals.
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time | 20 minutes |
| Passive Time | 35 minutes |
| Servings |
people
|
- 6 chicken thighs boneless, skinless
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
- 1/4 cup cilantro leaves chopped
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp Black Pepper
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
Ingredients
|
|
- In a medium bowl, mix together the marinade: lime juice, cilantro, 2 tablespoons olive oil, cumin, garlic powder, chili powder, paprika, red pepper flakes, salt and pepper.
- Add the chicken to the marinade, cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes and up to 8 hours.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium high heat. Once hot, add the chicken and sear for 2 - 3 minutes on each side. Don’t move the chicken around while searing. Leave the marinade in the bowl. One seared, remove the chicken from the pan.
- Pour the marinade into the pan over medium heat and bring it to a boil, raising the temperature if needed.
- Add the chicken into the pan, smooth side down. Cover and cook for 7 - 10 minutes, until cooked through. Check and move the chicken around a couple times while cooking. Serve immediately. Add additional chopped cilantro on top of the chicken and squeeze fresh lime juice over the chicken before serving. Optionally, serve over rice.
