Juicy cilantro lime chicken bursting with garlic, citrus, and herbs—perfect for tacos, meal prep, or a quick weeknight dinner in just 25 minutes!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy—ready in under 30 minutes
- Marinated for maximum flavor
- Juicy, tender chicken with a crisp sear
- Great for tacos, burrito bowls, wraps, or salads
- Naturally gluten-free and low-carb
- Packed with fresh, bright, herby citrus flavor
- Family-friendly and meal prep approved
- No fancy ingredients or equipment required
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
- 2 limes (zest of 1 lime + juice of both)
- 1/2 bunch fresh cilantro, chopped
- 6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (about 1.5–1.75 lbs)
Directions
- In a small bowl, combine olive oil, garlic, cumin, salt, and black pepper
- Add the zest of 1 lime and juice of both limes into the mixture
- Stir in half of the chopped cilantro to create the marinade
- Place chicken thighs in a bowl or resealable bag and pour the marinade over them
- Mix well to coat the chicken, cover, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 8 hours
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a little oil if needed
- Cook chicken thighs for 5–7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp should reach 165°F / 74°C)
- Remove from heat and top with remaining chopped cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice before serving
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Calories: Approximately 310 kcal per serving
Variations
- Grilled version: Grill chicken over medium heat for smoky flavor
- Baked option: Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes
- Spicy twist: Add chopped jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes
- Use chicken breasts: Swap in boneless breasts, but reduce cooking time slightly
- Add avocado: Top with diced avocado or guacamole for creaminess
- Herb mix: Add chopped parsley or green onions for extra freshness
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days
- Freezer: Freeze cooked chicken in portions for up to 2 months
- Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, just adjust the cooking time as breasts tend to cook faster and can dry out more easily.
How long can I marinate the chicken?
At least 30 minutes is ideal, but up to 8 hours provides maximum flavor.
Can I grill this chicken instead of pan-frying?
Absolutely—grill over medium-high heat for 6–7 minutes per side until fully cooked.
Is this recipe spicy?
No, it’s flavorful but mild. You can add spice if you like it hot.
Can I use bottled lime juice?
Fresh lime juice is best, but bottled can be used in a pinch.
What’s the best way to serve this chicken?
Serve with rice, tortillas, in tacos, over salads, or with roasted veggies.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, just make sure not to overcrowd the skillet—cook in batches if necessary.
Does the chicken need to be pounded flat before cooking?
Not necessary for thighs, but if using breasts, even thickness helps cook evenly.
Can I freeze the chicken in the marinade?
Yes! Freeze raw chicken in the marinade and thaw before cooking for a ready-to-go meal.
What herbs can I substitute for cilantro?
If you’re not a fan of cilantro, try flat-leaf parsley or a mix of parsley and green onion.
Conclusion
Cilantro Lime Chicken is a fast, flavorful, and foolproof recipe that’s perfect for any night of the week. Whether you’re building tacos, plating up a protein-packed bowl, or simply craving something zesty and delicious, this dish delivers big taste with minimal effort. Keep this recipe in your back pocket for easy, satisfying meals that never disappoint.
Print
Cilantro Lime Chicken
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Juicy cilantro lime chicken bursting with garlic, citrus, and herbs—perfect for tacos, meal prep, or a quick weeknight dinner in just 25 minutes!
Ingredients
2 tbsp olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 tsp ground cumin
1/2 tsp salt
Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
Zest of 1 lime + juice of 2 limes
1/2 bunch fresh cilantro, chopped
6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (1.5–1.75 lbs)
Instructions
Mix olive oil, garlic, cumin, salt, pepper, lime zest, and lime juice in a bowl.
Stir in half the chopped cilantro for a flavorful marinade.
Coat chicken thighs thoroughly in the marinade.
Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes to 8 hours.
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken 5–7 minutes per side, until cooked through.
Garnish with remaining cilantro and fresh lime juice before serving.
Notes
- For deeper flavor, marinate overnight.
- Works well grilled or oven-roasted too.
- Great in tacos, bowls, or served with rice and veggies.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American