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Cilantro and Lime Chicken Marinade

Cilantro and Lime Chicken Marinade

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  • Author: Maria
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Grilled
  • Cuisine: Mexican

Description

This Cilantro and Lime Chicken Marinade is the perfect balance of tangy lime, fresh cilantro, and savory spices. It’s easy to make with minimal ingredients and will quickly become your go-to weeknight dinner option. Serve it grilled, baked, or skillet-cooked for a flavorful meal!


Ingredients

  • For the Marinade:

    • 1-1.5 lb chicken breasts (boneless & skinless)

    • 2 tsp cornstarch + 2 tsp water (for slurry)

    • 1/2 cup fresh cilantro (loosely packed)

    • 3 cloves fresh garlic

    • 3 Tbsp lime juice

    • 1/4 cup olive oil (or avocado oil)

    • 1/2 tsp chipotle powder

    • 1/2 tsp ground cumin

    • 1/4 tsp salt & pepper

    • 3 Tbsp honey


Instructions

  • Make the Marinade:

    • In a small food processor, combine the oil, lime juice, garlic, cilantro, salt, pepper, cumin, and honey. Process until smooth.

  • Marinate the Chicken:

    • Add the chicken breasts to a ziplock bag or a baking dish. Pour half of the marinade over the chicken and mix to coat evenly. Refrigerate and marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours.

  • Cook the Chicken:

    • In a Skillet (preferred method):

      • Heat 1 tsp oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken in a single layer and cook for 7-8 minutes per side, or until browned and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165ºF).

      • If the chicken is thick, cover the skillet after flipping to ensure even cooking.

      • Pour the remaining marinade into the pan, add the cornstarch slurry, and let it simmer for a few minutes to thicken. Remove from heat and let it rest.

    • To Grill:

      • Preheat the grill to medium heat. Grill the chicken for 7-8 minutes per side, turning often until fully cooked. Brush with the leftover marinade during grilling.

    • To Bake:

      • Preheat the oven to 375°F. Place the chicken on a lined baking sheet or in a casserole dish. Bake uncovered for 18-20 minutes.

      • About 15 minutes into baking, pour the remaining marinade (with the cornstarch slurry) over the chicken and continue baking until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165ºF.

 

  • Serve:

    • Once cooked, serve the chicken hot with your favorite side dishes. Enjoy!


Notes

  • Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes for the best flavor.

  • Adjust the chipotle powder to your preferred spice level.


Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 240
  • Sugar: 8g
  • Sodium: 220mg
  • Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 6g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 28g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg