Description
This Cilantro Lime Chicken recipe features juicy, grilled boneless chicken breasts marinated in a vibrant blend of citrus, honey, and spices. The marinade infuses the chicken with fresh flavors from orange and lime zest and juice, complemented by garlic, cumin, and cilantro. Grilled to perfection and served with an optional mango-avocado salsa over rice, this dish is a zesty, healthy, and satisfying meal perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend cookouts.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken & Marinade
- 1-1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 3 oranges, zested and juiced
- 3 limes, zested and juiced
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Topping
- Mango-avocado salsa for serving
- Rice for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the marinade: Zest and juice the oranges and limes. In a medium bowl, whisk together the orange and lime zest and juice, olive oil, honey, ground cumin, soy sauce, minced garlic, chopped cilantro, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Marinate the chicken: Reserve half of the marinade in a separate container for basting later. Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag and pour the remaining marinade over them. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 6 hours for deeper flavor.
- Grill the chicken: Preheat your grill to 450°F (232°C). Remove the chicken breasts from the marinade and discard the used marinade. Place the chicken on the grill and cook for 10 to 12 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), turning halfway through. While grilling, brush the chicken with the reserved marinade to enhance flavor and moisture.
- Serve: Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest briefly. Serve topped with a fresh mango-avocado salsa over a bed of rice if desired, making for a colorful, flavorful meal.
Notes
- Marinating the chicken longer (up to 6 hours) will intensify the citrus and herb flavors.
- If you don’t have a grill, you can cook the chicken on a stovetop grill pan or bake it at 400°F for 20-25 minutes.
- Use fresh garlic and cilantro for the best flavor.
- Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for food safety.
- Serve with rice or a fresh salad to make it a complete meal.
