Description
Cilantro Lime Grilled Chicken
Ingredients
1 1/2 lbs chicken tenders or chicken breasts, cut into strips
1/4 cup olive oil
1/4 cup lime juice (about 2 limes)
2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp ground cumin
1/2 tsp chili powder
Salt and pepper to taste
For the Cilantro Lime Sauce:
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
1/4 cup Greek yogurt or sour cream
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp lime juice
1 clove garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, cilantro, garlic, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Add chicken strips and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours).
Grill the Chicken: Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Grill the chicken for 3-4 minutes per side, until cooked through and lightly charred.
Make the Sauce: While the chicken is grilling, blend or whisk together cilantro, Greek yogurt, olive oil, lime juice, garlic, salt, and pepper. Adjust consistency with a splash of water if needed.
Serve the grilled chicken with the cilantro lime sauce on the side, garnished with fresh lime wedges and extra cilantro.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Marinate Time: 30 minutes (optional)
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: ~250 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect results every time. First, ensure your chicken is cut into uniform strips for even cooking. Whisk the marinade ingredients in a bowl until fully emulsified. Submerge the chicken, ensuring every piece is coated. Cover the bowl tightly before refrigerating. For grilling, preheat your grill or pan thoroughly to prevent sticking. Place chicken strips in a single layer, avoiding overcrowding. Grill undisturbed for 3-4 minutes to achieve good grill marks before flipping. Use a meat thermometer to confirm an internal temperature of 165°F. For the sauce, finely chop the cilantro and mince the garlic to ensure a smooth texture. Whisk vigorously until the sauce is creamy and uniform.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile chicken can anchor numerous meals. For a vibrant bowl, serve it over cilantro-lime rice with black beans, corn, and diced avocado. Stuff it into warm tortillas with pico de gallo for quick tacos. For a fresh salad, slice the grilled strips and place them atop a bed of romaine with cherry tomatoes, red onion, and a light vinaigrette. It also pairs wonderfully with grilled vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers or a simple side of Mexican street corn.
How-to Summary
In brief: Cut chicken into strips and marinate in a blend of olive oil, lime juice, cilantro, garlic, and spices for 30+ minutes. Grill over medium-high heat for 3-4 minutes per side until fully cooked. Simultaneously, prepare a creamy sauce by combining Greek yogurt, fresh cilantro, lime juice, garlic, and seasoning. Serve the chicken with the sauce and your chosen sides.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bake the chicken instead of grilling it? Absolutely. Preheat your oven to 400°F and bake the marinated strips on a parchment-lined sheet for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway, until cooked through.
How long can I store the marinated chicken? You can safely marinate the chicken in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Beyond that, the lime juice can start to break down the protein, giving it a mushy texture.
What’s a good substitute for Greek yogurt in the sauce? Sour cream is a direct 1:1 substitute. For a dairy-free version, use a plain, unsweetened vegan yogurt or even mashed avocado thinned with a little water.
My family dislikes cilantro. What can I use instead? In the marinade, substitute fresh parsley. For the sauce, replace the cilantro with fresh dill or simply make a creamy lime-garlic sauce using just yogurt, lime, and garlic.
Can I use frozen chicken? It’s crucial to thaw the chicken completely before marinating. Frozen chicken will not absorb the marinade effectively and will cook unevenly on the grill.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these pitfalls: Do not skip the marinating time—it’s essential for flavor and tenderness. Do not overcook the chicken, as breast meat dries out quickly; use a thermometer. Ensure your grill is properly preheated to get a good sear without sticking. Do not over-blend the sauce if using a food processor, as it can become too thin. Finally, do not pour the leftover marinade that touched raw chicken over the cooked food; always make fresh sauce for serving.
Conclusion
This Cilantro Lime Grilled Chicken recipe is a guaranteed winner for a quick, healthy, and flavor-packed dinner. The zesty marinade tenderizes the chicken while the cool, creamy sauce provides the perfect complement. With minimal prep and cook time, it fits seamlessly into busy weeknights yet feels special enough for weekend gatherings. By following the detailed guide and tips provided, you can master this dish and enjoy its vibrant, fresh flavors in countless ways.