Prepare to transform your ordinary dinner into an extraordinary flavor explosion that will make your taste buds dance! This Chicken Lime Garlic Cilantro recipe isn't just another chicken dish - it's a vibrant, mouthwatering journey through Mexican-inspired cuisine that promises to elevate your home cooking from mundane to magnificent. With a perfect balance of tangy lime, aromatic garlic, and fresh cilantro, this recipe will turn even the most novice cook into a kitchen superstar in just 35 minutes!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 2 limes, juiced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken breasts by patting them dry with paper towels to ensure even seasoning and better browning.
- Season both sides of the chicken breasts generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine freshly squeezed lime juice, minced garlic, chopped cilantro, and olive oil to create a marinade.
- Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the marinade, ensuring they are completely coated. Let marinate for 10-15 minutes at room temperature to allow flavors to penetrate the meat.
- Heat a large skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat. Add a small amount of additional olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Remove chicken from marinade, allowing excess to drip off. Reserve the remaining marinade for later.
- Carefully place chicken breasts in the hot skillet. Cook for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- During the last minute of cooking, pour the reserved marinade over the chicken to enhance flavor and create a light sauce.
- Remove chicken from heat and let rest for 3-5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute, ensuring maximum tenderness.
- Garnish with additional fresh chopped cilantro and serve with lime wedges for squeezing over the chicken.
Tips
- Pat chicken breasts completely dry before seasoning to ensure a beautiful golden-brown sear.
- Use fresh lime juice and freshly minced garlic for the most vibrant flavor profile.
- Don't rush the marinating process - 10-15 minutes allows the flavors to deeply penetrate the meat.
- Use a meat thermometer to guarantee perfectly cooked chicken at 165°F (74°C).
- Let the chicken rest after cooking to maintain maximum juiciness and tenderness.
- For extra flavor, consider using a cast-iron skillet which provides excellent heat distribution and creates a delicious crust.
- Garnish with extra fresh cilantro and lime wedges to enhance the presentation and add a bright, fresh finish.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 190kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: 24g
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 70mg
