Grilled Chicken with Zesty Lime Cilantro Marinade
Enjoy tender, juicy grilled chicken bursting with a zesty lime and cilantro marinade. Perfect for a quick and flavorful meal, this recipe is ideal for weeknights or weekend barbecues.
Equipment
- Grill
- Tongs
- Meat thermometer
- Mixing bowl or resealable bag
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
- 1 tbsp lime zest
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
Preparation
- Pat the chicken dry and, if using breasts, butterfly or pound them to an even ¾-inch thickness.
- In a bowl or bag, combine lime juice, zest, cilantro, garlic powder, cumin, olive oil, salt, and pepper, then add chicken and marinate for 30 minutes to 4 hours in the refrigerator.
Grilling
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F / 200°C) and clean the grates.
- Lightly oil the grates, then place the chicken on the hot grill, cooking for 4-7 minutes per side until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Finishing
- Transfer the cooked chicken to a cutting board, tent with foil, and rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade for a subtle kick. Ensure your chicken is fully cooked by using a meat thermometer; 165°F (74°C) is the safe internal temperature.