Looking for a chicken recipe that’s anything but boring?

This Cilantro Lime Chicken is fresh, zesty, and packed with flavor from a quick marinade using real lime juice, garlic, and fresh cilantro. Whether you're grilling it for a cookout or pan-frying it on a busy weeknight, this juicy chicken is a guaranteed family favorite.

Bonus: You can serve it in tacos, bowls, salads, or meal prep boxes — the possibilities are endless.

Why You’ll Love This Cilantro Lime Chicken

✅ Flavor-packed with just a few simple ingredients
✅ Cooks in under 20 minutes after marinating
✅ Meal prep-friendly and freezer-friendly
✅ Versatile for bowls, salads, tacos, or wraps

How to Make It

1. Make the Marinade:
In a blender or food processor, combine:

Juice and zest of 2 limes
2 tablespoons olive oil
2–3 garlic cloves
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper
Optional: 1/2 teaspoon cumin or smoked paprika

Blend until smooth.

2. Marinate:
Place 1.5–2 lbs of chicken thighs or breasts in a bowl or zip-top bag. Pour the blended marinade over the chicken, making sure it’s fully coated. Marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight in the fridge.

2. Cook:

Pan-Skillet Method:
Sear over medium-high heat 3–4 min per side, then reduce heat and cook through.
Skillet + Oven (Best for thick pieces):
Sear 2–3 min per side, then transfer to a 400°F oven for 7–10 min.
Grill Method:
Preheat grill to medium-high. Grill chicken 5–6 min per side until internal temp is 165°F.

3. Rest + Slice:
Let chicken rest 5 minutes, then slice or chop as desired.

How to Serve Cilantro Lime Chicken

This chicken works with almost anything! Here are some of my favorite ways to serve it:

👉 Bowl-Style:

Cilantro lime rice or plain white rice
Corn (grilled or canned)
Black beans or pinto beans
Guacamole or avocado slices
Trader Joe’s Green Goddess dressing (highly recommended!)
Fresh lime wedges + chopped cilantro

👉 Other Serving Ideas:

Stuffed in warm tortillas for tacos or burritos
Over a chopped salad with creamy cilantro dressing
In a wrap with lettuce, tomato, and avocado
Meal prep boxes with rice and veggies

Tips for Success

Use fresh lime juice — bottled just won’t hit the same.
Don’t skip the resting time after cooking — it helps the juices settle.
Double the batch and freeze leftovers for quick meals later.

Need a quick dinner tonight? Save this recipe now or pin it for later!

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