The Grilled Cilantro Lime Chicken is a fresh and flavorful dish that brings zesty citrus, aromatic herbs, and juicy grilled chicken together in perfect harmony. Marinated in a lively blend of lime juice, garlic, olive oil, and cilantro, this recipe infuses the chicken with a burst of brightness that tastes like summer on a plate. Each bite is smoky, tender, and packed with bold yet balanced flavors. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, backyard cookouts, or meal prep — simple ingredients, big flavor, and absolutely satisfying.
2. Ingredients
For the Marinade:
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¼ cup olive oil
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¼ cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
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2 teaspoons lime zest
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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½ cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
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1 teaspoon ground cumin
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1 teaspoon chili powder
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½ teaspoon smoked paprika
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Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Chicken:
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4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs for extra juiciness)
For Garnish (optional):
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Extra chopped cilantro
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Lime wedges
3. Instructions
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Prepare the marinade:
In a medium bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, lime zest, minced garlic, chopped cilantro, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper until well blended. -
Marinate the chicken:
Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece is well coated. Seal and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, ideally 2–4 hours for deeper flavor. -
Preheat the grill:
Heat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking. -
Grill the chicken:
Remove the chicken from the marinade and let excess drip off. Grill for 5–6 minutes per side, depending on thickness, until the chicken is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). -
Rest and serve:
Transfer the grilled chicken to a plate and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Garnish with extra cilantro and serve with lime wedges for an extra squeeze of freshness.
4. Preparation & Cooking Time
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Prep time: 10 minutes
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Marinating time: 2 hours (minimum 30 minutes)
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Cooking time: 12 minutes
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Total: 2 hours 25 minutes
5. Serving
Serves 4 people
6. Nutrition (per serving)
Calories: 280 kcal
Protein: 32 g
Fat: 15 g
Carbohydrates: 3 g
Fiber: 1 g
Sugar: 1 g
7. Tips
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Pound the chicken: If the breasts are thick, pound them to even thickness for faster, more even grilling.
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Don’t skip resting: Resting helps the juices redistribute, keeping the chicken tender.
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Marinate overnight: For maximum flavor, marinate up to 12 hours in the refrigerator.
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Indoor option: Use a grill pan or cast-iron skillet if outdoor grilling isn’t possible.
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Serving ideas: Pair with rice, grilled corn, or a fresh avocado salad for a complete meal.
8. Final Thought
The Grilled Cilantro Lime Chicken is everything you want in a grilled dish — juicy, smoky, and filled with bright, citrusy flavor. The cilantro and lime combination brings out a tropical flair, making this chicken both light and satisfying. Whether served hot off the grill or chilled for lunch the next day, it’s a flavorful favorite that never disappoints.
