This Cilantro Lime Chicken is everything you want in a quick and satisfying meal. The combination of fresh lime juice, garlic, and chopped cilantro gives the chicken a bold, tangy kick, while a touch of honey rounds out the flavors. Whether you grill it, pan-sear it, or bake it in the oven, the result is juicy, flavorful chicken that pairs perfectly with rice, salad, or roasted vegetables.
🥘 Ingredients
Servings: 4
- 2 lbs chicken breast or thighs (4 small/medium pieces)
- 3 Tbsp olive oil
- ¼ cup freshly squeezed lime juice
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 Tbsp cilantro, finely chopped (plus more for garnish)
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp ground black pepper
- 1 tsp ground paprika
- 1 Tbsp honey
- 1 lime, cut into wedges for serving
👩🍳 Instructions
1. Prepare the Marinade
In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, garlic, cilantro, salt, pepper, paprika, and honey. This mixture will infuse the chicken with vibrant flavor.
2. Marinate the Chicken
Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and coat them well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours if time allows. The longer it marinates, the deeper the flavor.
3. Cook the Chicken
Choose one of the following methods:
- Grill Method:
Preheat your grill to medium heat. Grill the chicken for 4–5 minutes per side, depending on thickness, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). - Skillet Method:
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or grill pan over medium heat. Cook chicken for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked. If the chicken is thick, cover with a lid after flipping to trap heat and keep it juicy. - Oven Method:
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place chicken in a baking dish or on a lined sheet pan. Bake uncovered for about 20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
4. Serve and Garnish
Transfer the cooked chicken to a serving plate. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the top and garnish with extra chopped cilantro. Serve with lime wedges on the side for an extra zesty touch.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
- Serve over cilantro lime rice, with black beans, or a side of grilled vegetables.
- Turn leftovers into tacos, salads, or burrito bowls.
- Great for meal prep—just store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
✅ Tips for Success
- Use fresh lime juice for the best flavor.
- Don’t skip the honey—it balances the acidity of the lime beautifully.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking before slicing to retain the juices.
This Cilantro Lime Chicken is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser—simple, healthy, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re feeding the family or entertaining friends, it’s a dish that always delivers.