Looking to elevate your weeknight dinners with a burst of vibrant flavors? Look no further than this Small Batch Cilantro Lime Chicken Marinade! Perfectly balanced with zesty lime, fragrant cilantro, and a hint of garlic, this marinade will transform your chicken into a mouthwatering masterpiece in just 10 minutes. Whether you're grilling, baking, or pan-searing, the tantalizing aroma and taste of this marinade will have your taste buds dancing. Ready to impress your family and friends with a dish that’s quick, easy, and utterly delicious? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 10 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 2 servings
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, freshly squeezed lime juice, and finely chopped cilantro.
- Mince the garlic cloves using a sharp knife or garlic press, ensuring they are very fine to distribute evenly in the marinade.
- Add the minced garlic to the oil and lime mixture, then sprinkle in the ground cumin.
- Season the marinade with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, whisking all ingredients together until well combined.
- Place chicken pieces in a shallow dish or resealable plastic bag, then pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring all surfaces are evenly coated.
- For best flavor, cover and refrigerate the marinating chicken for 30 minutes to 2 hours. Avoid marinating longer than 2 hours to prevent the lime juice from breaking down the chicken's texture.
- Before cooking, remove chicken from the marinade and discard the remaining liquid. Grill, bake, or pan-sear the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Tips
- Fresh Ingredients Matter: For the best flavor, always use fresh lime juice and freshly chopped cilantro. The vibrant flavors truly shine when using fresh ingredients!
- Marinating Time: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes, but no longer than 2 hours. This will ensure the chicken absorbs the flavors without becoming mushy from the acidity of the lime.
- Cooking Options: You can grill, bake, or pan-sear the marinated chicken. Each method will yield delicious results—just make sure to cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- Customizable Heat: If you like a little kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade for an extra layer of flavor.
- Perfect Pairings: Serve your cilantro lime chicken with a side of rice, fresh salsa, or a crisp salad to complement the zesty flavors of the dish.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 1g
Protein: 0g
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 0mg
