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Cilantro Lime Chicken

Zesty Cilantro Lime Chicken: Your Juicy Go-To Recipe!

Cilantro Lime Chicken is a flavor-packed dish that is easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Marinating Time 2 hours
Total Time 3 hours
Servings: 4 servings
Course: dinner
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Marinade
  • 1 bunch Cilantro Leaves Fresh herb that adds aromatic flavor; substitute with dried cilantro for a milder taste.
  • 1 tablespoon Lime Zest Provides citrusy brightness; organic limes yield the best results.
  • 3 tablespoons Lime Juice Fresh juice is recommended for the most vibrant taste.
  • 4 cloves Garlic Fresh minced garlic is preferred.
  • 1 teaspoon Cumin Ground coriander can be a suitable substitute.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Adjust to your taste.
  • 1 teaspoon Pepper Adjust to your taste.
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Avocado oil can serve as a good alternative.
For Cooking
  • 1 pound Chicken Thighs Juicy and tender cuts.

Equipment

  • blender
  • grill
  • oven
  • skillet
  • meat thermometer

Method
 

Marinade Preparation
  1. Combine fresh cilantro leaves, lime zest, lime juice, minced garlic, cumin, salt, pepper, and olive oil in a blender. Blend until smooth.
Marinating the Chicken
  1. Place the chicken thighs in a bowl or ziplock bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Cooking Method
  1. Decide on your cooking method. Preheat your grill to high heat or your oven to 375°F.
  2. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet if using the stovetop.
Cooking Instructions
  1. For grilling, cook the marinated chicken thighs for about 4-5 minutes per side, then move to a cooler area until cooked through (15-20 minutes total).
  2. For baking, place on a lined baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway.
  3. For stovetop, cook for 5-7 minutes per side, checking for doneness.
Serving
  1. Transfer to a serving platter and garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and lime wedges.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 5gProtein: 30gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 450mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 2mgIron: 8mg

Notes

This dish pairs beautifully with rice pilaf or a crisp cabbage slaw. Customize the marinade to your taste.

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