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Cilantro Lime Chicken

Juicy Cilantro Lime Chicken: Quick & Flavorful Feast

This Cilantro Lime Chicken is a zesty, flavorful dish that transforms chicken thighs into a succulent meal, perfect for busy weeknights.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Marinating Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: dinner
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Marinade
  • 1 cup Cilantro Leaves Can swap with parsley if preferred.
  • 2 each Lime Zest and Juice Using fresh lime juice is recommended.
  • 3 cloves Garlic Fresh garlic is ideal.
  • 1 teaspoon Cumin Adds warm, earthy undertones.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Adjust to taste.
  • 1 teaspoon Pepper Adjust to taste.
  • ¼ cup Olive Oil Avocado oil is a flavorful alternative.
For the Chicken
  • 4 pieces Chicken Thighs Substitutable with chicken breasts; cooking time may vary.
Optional Toppings
  • 2 each Fresh Lime Wedges Great for garnish.
  • ¼ cup Extra Cilantro For garnish.

Equipment

  • blender
  • grill
  • oven
  • skillet
  • meat thermometer

Method
 

Preparation Instructions
  1. In a blender, combine a generous handful of cilantro leaves, lime zest and juice, minced garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper. Drizzle in olive oil and blend until smooth.
  2. Place chicken thighs in a bowl or resealable bag. Pour marinade over chicken, ensuring it is evenly coated. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
  3. Choose to grill, bake, or sauté the chicken. Preheat grill to medium-high, oven to 400°F, or heat skillet over medium-high.
  4. For grilling, sear chicken for 6-7 minutes per side, reduce heat and cook for another 5-8 minutes. For baking, place on greased sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes. For sautéing, sear for 6 minutes, then cover and reduce heat for another 8-10 minutes.
  5. Use a meat thermometer to ensure internal temperature reaches 165°F.
  6. Let chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. Optionally, squeeze fresh lime juice over it.

Nutrition

Serving: 1pieceCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 6gProtein: 25gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 11gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 1gVitamin A: 1000IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Let chicken marinate longer for deeper flavor. Use fresh ingredients for best results and rest the chicken after cooking for maximum juiciness.

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