If you’re looking for a chicken recipe that’s fresh, flavorful, and endlessly versatile, you’re going to love this Easy Cilantro Lime Chicken. Juicy, bright, and packed with herbs and spices, this dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, summer grilling, or meal prep. Whether you’re tossing it into tacos, laying it over a bowl of rice, or slicing it onto a fresh salad, this is one of those recipes you’ll make again and again.
You only need a few pantry staples and some fresh lime and cilantro to bring this meal to life. It’s naturally gluten-free and dairy-free, so it fits a variety of diets—and best of all, the flavor is out of this world!
Let’s dive into how to make it, with all the tips and tricks you’ll need for perfect results every time.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need for this simple yet vibrant recipe:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts – You can also use thighs if you prefer darker, juicier meat.
- ¼ cup olive oil – Helps carry the flavor and keeps the chicken moist.
- ¼ cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes) – The star ingredient that brightens up the entire dish.
- 2 teaspoons lime zest – Don’t skip the zest! It adds an intense lime aroma and boosts the citrus flavor.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced – Fresh garlic infuses the marinade with sharp, savory depth.
- ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro – Adds a bright, herbaceous note that’s key to this dish.
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin – Brings a warm, earthy base that balances the acidity.
- ½ teaspoon chili powder – Adds mild heat and depth.
- Salt and pepper, to taste – Enhances all the other flavors.
That’s it! Simple, fresh ingredients that create bold, complex flavor.
How to Make Cilantro Lime Chicken
You’ll love how easy this is! The flavor starts in the marinade, which you can throw together in just a few minutes. Then you can choose how you want to cook it—grill, oven, skillet, or air fryer.
Step 1: Whisk Together the Marinade
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, lime juice, lime zest, garlic, chopped cilantro, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Give it a good whisk until everything is evenly mixed. If you want extra punch, you can blend it in a food processor for a smoother consistency.
Pro tip: If you want to use a portion of this marinade as a drizzle after cooking, set a couple of tablespoons aside before adding the raw chicken!
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Place your chicken breasts in a large zip-top bag or shallow glass dish. Pour the marinade over the top, making sure the chicken is well coated. Seal or cover, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Two hours is even better if you have the time. Avoid going over 8 hours—the acid from the lime juice can start breaking down the chicken and make it mushy.
This is a great step to do in the morning so dinner comes together quickly later in the day.
Step 3: Cook Your Chicken
You’ve got options here—choose whatever method works best for you:
- Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high. Grill the chicken for 6–7 minutes on each side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Let it char slightly for that classic grilled flavor.
- Skillet: Heat a tablespoon of oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken the same way, flipping after 6–7 minutes.
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the chicken in a baking dish and cook for 20–25 minutes.
- Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 380°F and cook for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
No matter the method, always let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This helps retain the juices and keep it tender.
Tips and Tricks
- Use Fresh Lime Juice: Bottled lime juice doesn’t have the same zing or complexity as fresh juice. Squeeze real limes—it’s worth it!
- Want a Spicy Kick? Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or toss a few sliced jalapeños into the marinade.
- Make it Sweeter: Stir in a tablespoon of honey for a sweet-and-savory variation.
- Want Even More Tender Chicken? Add a spoonful of Greek yogurt to the marinade for extra richness and moisture.
Serving Suggestions
This chicken is incredibly versatile, which is one of the reasons it’s become such a staple in my kitchen.
Here are some favorite ways to serve it:
- Tacos: Slice and serve in warm tortillas with avocado, red onion, and shredded cabbage.
- Rice Bowls: Layer it over cilantro lime rice with black beans, corn, and a dollop of sour cream.
- Salads: Slice and lay over a bed of greens with cherry tomatoes, corn, and a creamy dressing.
- Wraps: Add chicken to a tortilla with hummus or guacamole and leafy greens.
- Low-Carb Options: Serve it with cauliflower rice, grilled vegetables, or an avocado cucumber salad.
This chicken brings big flavor to just about anything you pair it with.
Make-Ahead and Meal Prep Tips
This recipe is a meal-prepper’s dream. You can make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week.
- Marinate Ahead of Time: You can prep the marinade up to 3 days in advance. Add the chicken the night before or the morning of.
- Cooked Chicken Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezer Friendly: Place uncooked chicken and marinade in a freezer bag and freeze immediately. When ready to use, thaw overnight in the fridge and cook as directed.
- Reheating: Reheat gently in the microwave, oven, or skillet. Add a splash of broth or water to keep it moist if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Thighs are a little juicier and more forgiving during cooking.
Can I use bottled lime juice?
Fresh is best, but bottled will do in a pinch. Just check for a high-quality brand without added sugar or preservatives.
Is this dish spicy?
It’s mild as written, but you can easily spice it up with cayenne or hot sauce.
What’s the best cooking method?
They all work great, but grilling gives the best smoky flavor.
How do I know when it’s done?
Use a meat thermometer to check the thickest part of the chicken. It should read 165°F.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This is the kind of go-to dish that’s quick enough for a Tuesday night, but flavorful enough to impress guests. It checks all the boxes: easy, healthy, fresh, and delicious. Once you’ve tried it, you’ll understand why cilantro lime chicken is a favorite in kitchens everywhere.
So grab a bunch of cilantro, squeeze some fresh limes, and give this recipe a try. Your taste buds will thank you and your family will ask for it again and again.
Cilantro Lime Chicken
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
- 2 teaspoons lime zest
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, lime zest, garlic, cilantro, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Place chicken breasts in a resealable bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours.
- Preheat grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade and discard the marinade.
- Grill or cook chicken for 6–7 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Garnish with extra cilantro and lime wedges if desired.
