Description
Creamy Cilantro Lime Chicken
Ingredients:
2 chicken breasts
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup chicken broth
2 tablespoons lime juice
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
Instructions:
1. Season chicken breasts with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add chicken broth, lime juice, and heavy cream. Stir and bring to a simmer.
4. Return the chicken to the skillet and let it simmer in the sauce for 5 minutes.
5. Sprinkle fresh cilantro on top before serving.
6. Serve warm with rice or vegetables. Enjoy!
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed steps for perfect Creamy Cilantro Lime Chicken every time. First, pat the chicken breasts completely dry with paper towels; this ensures a good sear. Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, gently pound the thicker ends of the breasts to an even thickness for uniform cooking. Combine the dry spices (paprika, garlic powder, salt, pepper) in a small bowl, then rub the mixture thoroughly onto all sides of the chicken. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the chicken and cook undisturbed for 5-7 minutes per side, until a deep golden crust forms and the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Remove to a plate and tent with foil.
Reduce the heat to medium. Carefully pour the chicken broth and lime juice into the hot skillet, using a wooden spoon to scrape up all the flavorful browned bits from the bottom. This is called deglazing and is key for the sauce. Let the liquid simmer for 1 minute. Pour in the heavy cream, stir to combine, and return to a gentle simmer. Let the sauce cook and thicken for 2-3 minutes. Slide the chicken and any accumulated juices back into the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top. Let it warm through for 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. For a classic meal, serve it over a bed of fluffy white rice, jasmine rice, or cilantro-lime rice to complement the flavors. Cauliflower rice is a fantastic low-carb alternative. Roasted vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or zucchini add a healthy and colorful component. For a heartier option, try it with mashed potatoes, pasta, or in a warm tortilla for a creamy chicken taco. Garnish with extra fresh cilantro, a lime wedge, and a sprinkle of cotija or feta cheese.
How-to Summary
Pound chicken to even thickness, season, and sear until golden and cooked through. Remove chicken. Deglaze the skillet with broth and lime juice. Add cream and simmer to thicken. Return chicken to the skillet to warm through. Finish with fresh cilantro and serve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? Absolutely. Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are a great, more flavorful option. Adjust cooking time slightly as thighs may take a minute or two longer to cook through.
How can I make this dish dairy-free? Substitute full-fat coconut milk for the heavy cream. The result will be slightly sweeter but still deliciously creamy.
Why is my sauce too thin? Let it simmer a bit longer to reduce and thicken. For a quicker fix, create a slurry by mixing 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of cold water and stir it into the simmering sauce.
Can I prepare this ahead of time? You can cook the chicken and make the sauce separately, storing them in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat the sauce gently in a skillet, then add the chicken to warm through to prevent overcooking.
What can I use if I don’t have fresh cilantro? The fresh herb is best, but in a pinch, you can stir in 1-2 teaspoons of dried cilantro into the sauce while it simmers, adding a bit of fresh parsley at the end for color.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid overcrowding the skillet when searing the chicken, as this steams the meat instead of creating a flavorful crust. Do not rush the searing process—let the chicken develop a good color. Be careful not to boil the cream sauce vigorously after adding it, as this can cause it to separate or become greasy; a gentle simmer is key. Finally, do not add the fresh cilantro too early; adding it at the end preserves its bright color and fresh flavor.
Conclusion
Creamy Cilantro Lime Chicken is a restaurant-quality dish that is surprisingly simple to master at home. By following the detailed steps and tips provided, you can avoid common pitfalls and create a consistently delicious meal. Its perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and herby flavors, combined with its versatility for various diets and sides, makes it a reliable recipe to add to your weekly rotation. Enjoy the process and the impressive results.