The Best Cilantro Lime Marinated Chicken: Easy Grilled & Baked Perfection
Unlock incredible flavor with this juicy and zesty cilantro lime marinated chicken! Infused with the vibrant tastes of fresh cilantro, bright lime, and aromatic garlic, this recipe is your go-to for incredibly delicious chicken, whether you’re firing up the grill or baking in the oven. It’s a simple, fresh, and effortlessly tasty dish that promises to elevate your weeknight meals or weekend cookouts.
There’s nothing quite like the aroma of marinated chicken hitting a hot grill, but this versatile cilantro lime chicken recipe shines year-round, no matter the weather. While it’s absolutely fantastic for those glorious grilling days, this perfectly balanced marinade also ensures a tender, flavorful result when baked in your oven. Say goodbye to dry, bland chicken and hello to a vibrant, fresh meal that’s easy to prepare and packed with irresistible zest. It’s a favorite in my kitchen, especially for those busy evenings when you want maximum flavor with minimal fuss. Perfect for a quick family dinner or a delightful gathering, this marinated chicken always delivers.
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Why You’ll Adore This Cilantro Lime Chicken Recipe
This cilantro lime marinated chicken isn’t just another chicken dish; it’s a culinary experience designed for ease, flavor, and versatility. Here are just a few reasons why it’s destined to become a staple in your recipe rotation, making weeknight dinners and weekend cookouts a breeze:
- Explosion of Flavor: Forget bland, dry chicken breasts. This vibrant marinade transforms ordinary chicken into a sensation of fresh, tangy, and savory notes. The perfect blend of bright lime, aromatic cilantro, and pungent garlic penetrates the meat, ensuring every bite is moist, tender, and incredibly delicious. It’s a game-changer for elevating standard chicken to something truly special, providing a burst of authentic Mexican-inspired taste that will tantalize your taste buds.
- Fantastic for Meal Prep: Planning healthy meals for the week just got easier! This recipe is ideal for batch cooking. Prepare a large quantity of this chicken on Sunday, and you’ll have a flavorful protein ready to go for salads, wraps, tacos, or bowls throughout the week. Its robust flavor holds up beautifully, making your meal prep exciting. Pair it with my southwest quinoa salad for a complete and satisfying meal prep solution that’s both nutritious and delicious.
- Effortlessly Easy: With a prep time of just minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. Simply whisk together a few fresh ingredients for the marinade, add your chicken, and let it soak up all the goodness. Whether you choose to grill or bake, the cooking process is straightforward and yields consistent results. If you appreciate simple yet satisfying dishes, you’ll also love my one-dish fajitas or chicken sausage sheet pan dinner for equally easy and delicious options that minimize time in the kitchen.
- Versatile Cooking Methods: One of the greatest advantages of this recipe is its flexibility. Whether you’re a grilling enthusiast who loves the smoky char, or you prefer the reliable convenience and consistent heat of your oven, this chicken tastes incredible either way. This makes it a perfect recipe for all seasons and all cooking preferences, delivering consistent deliciousness every single time.
- Healthy & Wholesome: Made with fresh, wholesome ingredients like lean chicken, heart-healthy olive oil, and vitamin-rich cilantro and lime, this cilantro lime chicken is naturally gluten-free and packed with protein. It’s a fantastic choice for those looking for nutritious meals without compromising on taste, supporting a clean eating lifestyle.
Essential Ingredients & Smart Substitutions
Crafting the perfect cilantro lime chicken begins with quality ingredients. The total amounts can be found in the recipe card below, but here are some specific notes and tips to help you select the best and make smart substitutions for an optimal culinary experience.
- Chicken Breasts: I typically use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this recipe due to their lean profile and quick cooking time. However, boneless, skinless chicken thighs are an excellent alternative if you prefer darker meat; they tend to stay even juicier and offer a richer flavor. If using larger chicken breasts, consider slicing them horizontally to create thinner cutlets or pounding them gently to an even thickness (about ¾-inch). This not only ensures more even cooking but also allows for better flavor absorption from the marinade, resulting in more tender chicken. For the best flavor and texture, look for organic or pasture-raised chicken whenever possible.
- Olive Oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil is crucial here, not just for taste but also for its myriad health benefits. Choosing unrefined oils ensures you’re getting the purest form and maximum nutritional value, along with a rich, authentic flavor. Its fruity and slightly peppery notes complement the lime and cilantro beautifully. If you don’t have olive oil, avocado oil is another great option due to its neutral flavor and high smoke point, making it perfectly suitable for both grilling and baking.
- Fresh Lime Juice & Lime Zest: This is absolutely non-negotiable for that bright, zesty, and authentically fresh flavor. Always opt for fresh lime juice over bottled. Bottled lime juice often contains preservatives and lacks the vibrant, fresh taste that real, freshly squeezed limes provide. The zest is equally important, as it contains concentrated citrus oils that add an intense aromatic punch to the marinade that juice alone cannot replicate. Before juicing, zest your limes first, then roll them firmly on a countertop to extract the maximum amount of juice.
- Fresh Cilantro: The star herb of this dish! You absolutely need fresh cilantro, not the dried variety, which lacks the vibrant, pungent flavor and fresh aroma essential for this recipe. When selecting cilantro, look for bright green leaves without any wilting or yellowing. For a cleaner and healthier option, especially since cilantro is known to contain high amounts of pesticides when conventionally grown, I highly recommend choosing organic cilantro if it’s available. Remember to wash and thoroughly dry it before chopping.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic is always superior for its pungent, savory depth and incredible aroma. Minced garlic cloves will infuse the marinade with the best, most authentic flavor. If fresh garlic isn’t an option or you’re short on time, you can substitute it with ½ teaspoon of garlic powder for every two cloves of fresh garlic, though be aware the flavor profile will be slightly different and less intense.
- Salt and Cumin: These foundational seasonings tie all the bright, fresh flavors together and bring out the best in the chicken. I recommend using fine sea salt for its pure flavor and organic cumin. When it comes to spices, going organic is often a wise choice, as it helps avoid potential additives and ensures you’re getting the purest form of the herb or spice, free from the uncertainties of conventional growing practices.
- Black Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper adds a subtle warmth and aromatic finish to the marinade, complementing the other bold flavors without overpowering them.
Clean food tip: Prioritizing quality chicken makes a big difference in both taste and health. I highly recommend organic chicken if that’s an option for you, as it often means the chickens are raised with better feed and living conditions. At a minimum, always look for chicken that was raised without antibiotics, as this contributes to overall health and reduces antibiotic resistance. Beyond that, seeking out additional certifications, such as “Certified Humane Raised and Handled” or “Global Animal Partnership,” can provide assurance that the animals were treated humanely and raised in better conditions. These choices support both your health and ethical farming practices, leading to a more wholesome meal.
Flavorful Variations to Try
While this classic cilantro lime marinade is perfect as is, it’s also incredibly adaptable. Don’t be afraid to experiment and customize it to your taste preferences to create new and exciting flavor profiles for your marinated chicken!
For a delightful spicy marinade with a kick, simply add 1-2 teaspoons of sriracha sauce or a generous pinch (or more!) of red pepper flakes to the whisked marinade. Adjust the amount to your desired level of heat. This variation is particularly good for those who love a bit of fiery zest in their meals and makes for an exciting twist on the classic.
If you prefer a hint of sweetness to balance the tang, create a delectable honey lime marinade by incorporating 2 tablespoons of raw honey into the mixture. The honey adds a lovely glaze when cooked and a gentle sweetness that perfectly complements the tart lime, creating a more complex and rounded flavor profile.
For a truly bold, smoky, and slightly spicy flavor profile, consider adding 1-2 finely chopped chipotle peppers in adobo sauce to the marinade. These peppers not only bring a pleasant heat but also a distinct smoky depth that is absolutely incredible, especially if you’re planning to use the chicken for burrito bowls, tacos, or fajitas. Remember to start with a small amount and taste, as chipotle peppers can be quite potent and you can always add more.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Cilantro Lime Chicken (Grilled or Baked)
This recipe is straightforward, whether you’re grilling outdoors for that perfect char or baking indoors for consistent tenderness. Follow these simple steps for perfectly marinated and cooked chicken that’s bursting with flavor:
- Prepare the Marinade: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine all the marinade ingredients: the olive oil, freshly chopped cilantro, minced garlic, fresh lime juice and zest, ground cumin, fine sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Whisk all the ingredients together thoroughly until well combined and fragrant. The marinade should be vibrant in color and aroma, a true precursor to the deliciousness to come.
- Marinate the Chicken: Add your chicken breasts (or thighs, if preferred) to the bowl with the prepared marinade. Ensure every piece of chicken is fully coated by tossing it gently. Alternatively, for less cleanup and efficient marinating, you can transfer the chicken and marinade to a large gallon-sized Ziplock bag or an eco-friendly Stasher bag. These reusable bags are fantastic for reducing plastic waste and making marinating a breeze while ensuring even coating.
- Chill and Marinate: Cover the bowl (or seal the bag, pressing out excess air) and place it in the refrigerator. Allow the chicken to marinate for a minimum of 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and infuse into the meat. For the best, most deeply infused flavor and tenderness, I typically recommend marinating for 2-4 hours, or even up to 24 hours. Avoid marinating for longer than 24 hours, especially with lime juice, as the acidity can start to break down the chicken fibers too much, potentially leading to a slightly mushy or stringy texture.
To Grill for Smoky Perfection: When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to a medium-high heat, aiming for a consistent temperature of about 400-425 degrees F. While the grill heats, take the marinated chicken out of the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes. This crucial step helps the chicken cook more evenly and stay juicier. Once the grill is hot, place the chicken breasts directly on the hot grill grates. Grill for roughly 6-8 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of your chicken breasts and the intensity of your grill. You’ll know it’s perfectly cooked when the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees F using a reliable meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part. The goal is beautifully charred edges and a tender, juicy interior with enticing grill marks.
To Bake for Tender Juiciness: If baking, preheat your oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). As with grilling, let the chicken come to room temperature for 15-20 minutes while the oven preheats. Place the marinated chicken in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the thickest part of the chicken reaches 165 degrees F. Baking time can vary significantly based on the thickness of your chicken breasts, so always rely on a meat thermometer for accuracy rather than just estimated time. This method yields wonderfully tender and juicy chicken, perfect for slicing, shredding, or enjoying whole.
💭 Expert Tip for Juicier Chicken
For noticeably juicier and more evenly cooked chicken, a crucial step often overlooked is allowing the chicken to come to room temperature before cooking. Take it out of the refrigerator and let it sit on your counter for 15-20 minutes (no more than 30 minutes for food safety reasons) prior to placing it on the grill or in the oven. This simple step helps relax the muscle fibers and allows the heat to penetrate the chicken more uniformly from edge to center. The result? Chicken that’s tender all the way through, with its delicious juices trapped inside, leading to a much more enjoyable eating experience.
Perfect Pairings: What to Serve with Cilantro Lime Chicken
This vibrant cilantro lime chicken is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with a wide variety of side dishes, making it easy to create a complete and unforgettable meal for any occasion. Its fresh and zesty flavor profile complements many different cuisines.
- Without a doubt, a fresh and easy homemade guacamole is the ultimate complement to this flavorful chicken! The creamy avocado, combined with additional fresh lime and cilantro notes, enhances the chicken’s profile beautifully. Serve it alongside some homemade salsa, a dollop of sour cream, and a side of warm tortillas or crispy tortilla chips for a complete and satisfying Mexican-inspired feast.
- I’m a big fan of fresh, vibrant salads, and the zesty flavors of this chicken make it a perfect protein to incorporate into a light and refreshing side or main dish. Consider a hearty and flavorful Southwest quinoa salad, a crisp and cooling cucumber radish salad for a textural contrast, an exotic Asian cabbage salad for a different flavor profile, a sweet and savory peach and goat cheese salad, or a robust kale and Brussels sprouts salad with maple vinaigrette. Each offers a unique texture and taste that harmonizes wonderfully with the chicken.
- If you’re already firing up the grill for the chicken, why not maximize its use? Elevate your meal with a delicious grilled vegetable pasta salad. The smoky flavors of perfectly grilled bell peppers, zucchini, and onions, combined with pasta, make it a perfect side dish for a summer cookout.
- For more classic and comforting side dishes, these options never disappoint: fluffy air fryer roasted sweet potatoes for a natural sweetness, amazingly crispy smashed potatoes, a wholesome and nutritious mix of roasted Brussels sprouts and sweet potatoes, or a cool and creamy coleslaw for a refreshing contrast. Simple steamed brown rice or a fresh corn salad are also excellent choices.
- Beyond these suggestions, consider turning the cooked cilantro lime chicken into a delicious wrap or taco filling, serving it over a bed of cauliflower rice for a low-carb option, or even dicing it for a vibrant chicken chili or soup. The possibilities are truly endless, limited only by your imagination!
Storing Leftovers & Meal Prep Tips
This cilantro lime chicken is just as delicious the next day, making it an excellent candidate for meal prepping and enjoying throughout the week! To ensure maximum freshness and flavor, allow any leftover chicken to cool completely to room temperature before storing. Then, transfer it to an airtight container and place it in the refrigerator, where it will keep well for up to 5 days. You can reheat it gently in the microwave (adding a splash of water or broth can help prevent it from drying out), on the stovetop over low heat, or even enjoy it cold. Cold sliced cilantro lime chicken is fantastic in salads, sandwiches, or as a protein boost for grain bowls. Cooked chicken can also be frozen for longer storage, up to 3 months. To freeze, wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. This makes healthy eating throughout the week incredibly convenient and reduces food waste!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some common questions you might have about making this delicious cilantro lime marinated chicken:
- Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe? Yes, you can. However, it’s crucial to ensure your chicken breasts are fully thawed before marinating. Marinating frozen chicken will not allow the flavors to penetrate properly, resulting in a less flavorful dish. Thaw chicken overnight in the refrigerator or use the defrost setting on your microwave according to manufacturer instructions.
- How long should I marinate the chicken? For optimal flavor infusion and tenderness, aim for at least 30 minutes. You can marinate it for up to 24 hours in the refrigerator. Any longer than 24 hours, and the acidity from the lime juice can start to break down the chicken’s proteins too much, potentially making it mushy or changing its texture unfavorably.
- What if I don’t have fresh cilantro? While fresh cilantro is highly recommended for its vibrant, distinctive flavor that is key to this recipe, if you absolutely cannot get it, you might try a very small amount of dried cilantro (about 1/3 the amount of fresh) or a mix of fresh parsley and a touch of extra cumin to try and mimic the fresh, herbaceous notes. However, please be aware that the result will not be exactly the same, as fresh cilantro has a unique aroma.
- Can I make this recipe spicier? Absolutely! If you love a bit of heat, you can easily customize the marinade. As mentioned in the variations section, simply add 1-2 teaspoons of sriracha sauce, a pinch (or more) of red pepper flakes, or even a finely minced jalapeño or serrano pepper to the marinade for an extra kick. Adjust to your personal spice preference.
- How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked? The safest and most reliable way to ensure your chicken is fully cooked is to use a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken breast, avoiding any bones. It should read an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The cooking times provided are estimates and can vary based on the thickness of your chicken pieces and the actual heat of your grill or oven.
- Can I prepare the marinade ahead of time? Yes, you can definitely save some time! You can whisk together all the marinade ingredients (except the chicken) and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. When you’re ready to cook, simply add the chicken to the prepared marinade and proceed with the recipe steps.
More Delicious Chicken Recipes to Explore
If you loved this vibrant cilantro lime chicken, you’re sure to enjoy these other flavorful and healthy chicken recipes from my kitchen. They are all designed to be easy to make, packed with taste, and perfect for any meal:
- Ultimate BLT Chicken Salad
- Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken (gluten free)
- Healthy Cashew Chicken Salad with Apples (Dairy-Free)
- Healthy Chicken Fried Rice (no soy option)
If you make this fantastic cilantro lime marinated chicken recipe, please let me know what you think! Your feedback is incredibly valuable and helps me create even better content for you. I would so appreciate you leaving a star rating and/or comment below to share your experience, tips, or any variations you tried. And don’t forget to share a photo of your culinary creation on Instagram or Facebook and mention @CleanPlateMama! Your shares inspire other home cooks. Happy cooking!
Eat Clean. Be Well!
-Sara
Cilantro Lime Marinated Chicken
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Equipment
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1 Mixing bowl or large Ziplock bag
Ingredients
- ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil
- ½ cup fresh, chopped cilantro
- 2 garlic cloves, chopped (about 2 tsp.)
- 2 limes juiced + the zest of 1 lime
- ½ tsp. ground cumin
- ½ tsp. fine sea salt
- ¼ tsp. pepper
- 1.5-2 lbs. chicken breasts
Instructions
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Whisk together the olive oil, cilantro, garlic, lime juice, lime zest, cumin, salt, and pepper in medium sized mixing bowl. Alternatively, you can also add this to a gallon size Ziplock bag (or other sealed bag).
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Place chicken breasts in the bowl (or bag) with the marinade and ensure all the chicken is coated. Cover (or seal) and place in fridge for a minimum of 30 minutes, or up to 24 hours.
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To Grill: Preheat grill to 400-425 degrees F. Take chicken out of fridge and allow to sit at room temp while grill is preheating. Grill chicken on each side for roughly 6-8 minutes, or until internal temperature at the thickest part reaches 165-degrees F. Total cooking time will vary pending how large your chicken breasts are.
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To Bake: Preheat oven to 400-degrees F and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165-degrees F. Baking time will vary pending how thick the chicken breasts are.
Notes
- If your chicken breasts are on the larger side, feel free to cut them in half. They will cook faster this way, and I find they retain their juices better.
- You can sub chicken thighs for the chicken breasts if you’d like. Chicken thighs take longer to cook than chicken breasts, so use a meat thermometer to ensure you cook the thighs to 165-degrees F. The total cooking time will depend on how large the thighs are.
- For even cooking and juicier chicken, allow chicken to sit at room temperature for 20-30 minutes before cooking.