Description
This Garlic Lime Chicken recipe features juicy, marinated boneless chicken breasts infused with zesty lime, garlic, and a blend of spices. Perfectly grilled to lock in flavors, this dish is a quick and flavorful main course inspired by Mexican cuisine. Serve it over rice, in tacos, or on salads for a versatile and delicious meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Marinade
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice and zest of 2 limes
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Garnish (Optional)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
Instructions
- Prepare the marinade. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, minced garlic, lime juice, lime zest, honey, ground cumin, paprika, chili powder, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Marinate the chicken. Place the chicken breasts in a large resealable bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken ensuring all pieces are coated. Seal or cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for heightened flavor.
- Preheat the grill or skillet. Bring your grill or skillet to medium-high heat to ensure a nice sear and even cooking.
- Cook the chicken. Remove the chicken breasts from the marinade and place them on the grill or skillet. Cook for 6 to 7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), ensuring the chicken is cooked through and juicy.
- Rest the chicken. Remove the chicken from heat and let it rest for a few minutes to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring tenderness.
- Garnish and serve. Sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro over the chicken before serving, if desired, to add a fresh and vibrant flavor.
Notes
- This chicken is versatile and pairs well served over rice, stuffed in tacos, or sliced atop salads.
- You can substitute chicken thighs for breasts; just adjust cooking time accordingly as thighs may take longer to cook.
- Marinating for longer (up to 4 hours) enhances the flavor and tenderness of the chicken.
- Ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F to guarantee it is fully cooked and safe to eat.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
