Cilantro Lime Chicken is not just another weeknight dinner; it’s a vibrant and zesty dish that can elevate any meal. If you have ever tasted the refreshing combination of lime and cilantro, you know it brings a unique brightness to your cooking. This recipe combines these flavors with tender chicken for a satisfying dinner that your taste buds will celebrate.
Why We Love This Cilantro Lime Chicken Recipe
What’s not to love about cilantro lime chicken? The harmonious blend of fresh herbs and citrus creates an unforgettable experience with every bite. The beauty of this recipe lies not only in its taste but also in its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up a fantastic meal that feels gourmet without the fuss. Plus, it’s versatile enough to serve with a variety of sides, making it a perfect option for any occasion.
Ingredients for Cilantro Lime Chicken
To create the perfect Cilantro Lime Chicken, gather the following ingredients:
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1.5 cups chicken broth (preferably reduced sodium)
- 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 1/2 cup chopped red onion
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/2–1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1/3 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- Optional: Lime wedges and additional cilantro for garnish
These ingredients come together to create a balance of flavors that will leave you wanting more.
How to Make Cilantro Lime Chicken
Creating this delightful dish is easier than you might think. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making your Cilantro Lime Chicken shine.
Step 1: Preparing the Chicken
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is crucial as it ensures the chicken cooks evenly. Next, take your chicken breasts and pound them to an even thickness. This helps in cooking them uniformly. Once pounded, season both sides generously with the salt and freshly ground black pepper.
Step 2: Browning the Chicken
In a large ovenproof skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully add the seasoned chicken breast. Allow the chicken to cook for about 6 to 7 minutes on one side until it develops a beautiful golden-brown crust. This browning step adds depth to the flavor of your dish. After browning, transfer the chicken to a plate and cover it with foil to keep it warm.
Step 3: Creating the Flavorful Sauce
Remove the skillet from the heat. In the same skillet, add the chicken broth and freshly squeezed lime juice. Stir in the chopped red onion, cilantro, and red pepper flakes. Return the skillet to medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Let it simmer uncovered for about 10 to 12 minutes, allowing the liquid to reduce to half a cup. This concentrated sauce will be packed with flavor, making every bite of chicken delicious.
Step 4: Adding Cream and Butter
After the sauce has reduced, reduce the heat to medium-low. Add the heavy cream and unsalted butter to the skillet. Stir the mixture until the butter melts, and the sauce is combined. This addition makes the sauce creamy and decadent, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Step 5: Combining and Baking
Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, making sure to coat both sides thoroughly with the luscious sauce. Finally, transfer the entire skillet to the preheated oven. Bake the chicken uncovered for about 5 to 10 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). This ensures that your chicken is perfectly cooked and safe to eat.
How to Serve Cilantro Lime Chicken
Once your Cilantro Lime Chicken is ready, it’s time to serve it up! You can enjoy it in a variety of ways. Serve it straight from the skillet, drenching each chicken breast in the rich sauce. For a vibrant presentation, consider garnishing with juicy lime wedges and additional cilantro. These garnishes add color and enhance the dish’s fresh flavors.
Pair your chicken with a side of fluffy rice or creamy mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious sauce. Alternatively, serve it alongside steamed vegetables for a lighter meal. You could even tuck the chicken into warm tortillas with fresh salsa for a tasty twist.
Expert Tips for the Perfect Cilantro Lime Chicken
To ensure your Cilantro Lime Chicken turns out perfectly every time, here are some expert tips to keep in mind:
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh lime juice and cilantro make a significant difference in taste. Avoid bottled lime juice if possible for a brighter flavor.
- Don’t Rush the Browning: Take your time when browning the chicken. Achieving a nice crust adds depth to your dish.
- Adjust the Heat: If you prefer a milder flavor, use less red pepper flakes. On the other hand, if you like some heat, feel free to increase the amount.
- Make it Ahead: This recipe is perfect for meal prep. Prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and simply bake it when you’re ready.
- Taste as You Go: Don’t hesitate to adjust the flavors to your liking. You can always add more lime juice, seasoning, or even additional cilantro.
How to Store Cilantro Lime Chicken
If you happen to have leftovers—though that might be unlikely—you can store them easily. Allow the chicken to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in the microwave until warmed through. If you want to maintain the creamy sauce, consider reheating it gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed.
Variations of Cilantro Lime Chicken
Cilantro Lime Chicken is delicious as it is, but don’t hesitate to get creative. Here are a few variations you can try:
- Grill It: For a summery twist, marinate the chicken in the lime and cilantro mixture before grilling it on the barbecue. The smoky flavor pairs wonderfully with the fresh ingredients.
- Cilantro Lime Chicken Tacos: Shred the cooked chicken and serve it in soft or crispy taco shells. Top with additional lime juice, cilantro, diced tomatoes, and avocado for a tasty taco night.
- One-Pan Cilantro Lime Chicken: If you want to streamline your cooking process, consider adding veggies to the skillet before baking, such as bell peppers or zucchini, to create a one-pan meal.
- Chicken Salad: Use leftover chicken to create a vibrant salad. Shred the chicken and mix it with lettuce, avocado, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cilantro Lime Chicken
What is Cilantro Lime Chicken?
Cilantro Lime Chicken is a chicken dish marinated or cooked with lime juice and cilantro, creating a flavorful and zesty meal.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs can be used for this recipe. They may require a slightly longer cooking time due to their thickness and fat content.
What should I serve with Cilantro Lime Chicken?
You can serve this dish with rice, beans, or a fresh salad. It also pairs wonderfully with tortillas for a taco night.
Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat and add the chicken when ready to serve.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes! Cilantro Lime Chicken is perfect for meal prep as you can easily store leftovers for quick lunches or dinners.
Cilantro Lime Chicken
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1.5 cups chicken broth preferably reduced sodium
- 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 1/2 cup chopped red onion
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/2–1 teaspoon red pepper flakes adjust to taste
- 1/3 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
Optional garnishes
- lime wedges
- additional cilantro for garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Pound chicken breasts to an even thickness and season both sides with salt and pepper.
Browning
- In a large ovenproof skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add seasoned chicken and cook for 6 to 7 minutes on one side until golden-brown. Transfer to a plate and cover with foil.
Flavorful Sauce
- In the same skillet, add chicken broth and lime juice. Stir in red onion, cilantro, and red pepper flakes. Bring to a gentle boil and simmer uncovered for 10 to 12 minutes until reduced to half a cup.
Cream and Butter
- Add heavy cream and unsalted butter to the skillet. Stir until combined and the butter melts.
Combine and Bake
- Return the chicken to the skillet, coating with sauce. Transfer skillet to oven and bake for 5 to 10 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).