This Grilled Chicken with Cilantro Lime Sauce is a flavorful and vibrant dish that combines juicy, tender chicken with a zesty and herbaceous sauce. Perfect for a summer barbecue or a weeknight dinner, this recipe is quick to prepare and full of fresh, bold flavors. The combination of lime, cilantro, and garlic gives the dish a refreshing twist that complements the smoky char from the grill.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare
- Packed with fresh, vibrant flavors
- A healthy and protein-rich meal
- Perfect for meal prep and leftovers
- Can be served with a variety of sides, such as rice, vegetables, or tortillas
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Chicken breasts or thighs
- Olive oil
- Garlic cloves
- Fresh cilantro
- Fresh lime juice
- Lime zest
- Honey or agave syrup
- Ground cumin
- Salt and black pepper
- Red pepper flakes (optional)
Directions
- Prepare the marinade: In a blender or food processor, combine olive oil, garlic, fresh cilantro, lime juice, lime zest, honey, ground cumin, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Blend until smooth.
- Marinate the chicken: Place the chicken in a shallow dish or zip-top bag and pour half of the cilantro lime sauce over it. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours for more flavor).
- Preheat the grill: Heat the grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
- Grill the chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard any excess liquid. Grill for 6-7 minutes per side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Serve: Drizzle the remaining cilantro lime sauce over the grilled chicken and serve immediately with your favorite sides.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Marination Time: 30 minutes to 4 hours
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes (including minimum marination)
Variations
- Spicy Version: Add extra red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño to the sauce.
- Dairy-Free Option: This recipe is naturally dairy-free.
- Herb Substitutions: Swap cilantro for parsley or basil if you prefer a different herb flavor.
- Oven-Baked Option: Instead of grilling, bake the chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes.
- Different Proteins: Try this sauce with shrimp, tofu, or even grilled vegetables.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: You can freeze grilled chicken for up to 3 months. Store it in a freezer-safe bag with as much air removed as possible.
- Reheating: Warm leftovers in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Avoid microwaving for too long to prevent drying out.
FAQs
How long should I marinate the chicken?
For the best flavor, marinate for at least 30 minutes, but if you have time, up to 4 hours will enhance the taste.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs work great and often stay juicier than breasts.
What can I serve with this dish?
It pairs well with rice, grilled vegetables, roasted potatoes, or a fresh salad.
Can I make the cilantro lime sauce in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce up to 2 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator.
What if I don’t like cilantro?
You can substitute parsley or basil, but the flavor will be different.
Can I cook this in a skillet instead of grilling?
Yes, cook the chicken in a skillet over medium-high heat for about 6-7 minutes per side.
How do I know when the chicken is done?
Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Can I double the sauce recipe?
Absolutely! It also works well as a dressing for salads or a dip for vegetables.
Is this dish spicy?
The recipe is mildly spiced, but you can adjust the heat level by adding or omitting red pepper flakes.
Can I use bottled lime juice instead of fresh?
Fresh lime juice is recommended for the best flavor, but bottled juice can be used in a pinch.
Conclusion
Grilled Chicken with Cilantro Lime Sauce is a flavorful and easy meal that is perfect for any occasion. With a balance of tangy, herbaceous, and slightly sweet flavors, it is sure to become a favorite. Whether grilled outdoors or cooked on a stovetop, this dish is versatile and delicious. Enjoy it with your favorite sides for a complete meal.
Print
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Grilled Chicken with Cilantro Lime Sauce is juicy, flavorful, and packed with zesty goodness. Perfect for a healthy, delicious meal with bold flavors!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless chicken thighs
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
- 1 clove garlic
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and lime juice.
- Coat the chicken in the marinade and let sit for 15 minutes.
- Grill chicken over medium heat for 5-6 minutes per side until cooked through.
- Blend cilantro, yogurt, garlic, olive oil, and honey until smooth to make the sauce.
- Drizzle sauce over the grilled chicken and serve hot.
Notes
- Can be served with rice or grilled vegetables.
- Store sauce separately and use within 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes