Cilantro Lime Grilled Chicken: A Flavorful and Refreshing Summer Delight
Summer is the season for grilling, and what could be better than a juicy, flavorful chicken breast grilled to perfection? This recipe for Cilantro Lime Grilled Chicken is a surefire hit, with its zesty blend of cilantro, lime, and spices. It’s easy to make, healthy, and absolutely delicious.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/4 cup lime juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine the chicken breasts, cilantro, lime juice, olive oil, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to coat the chicken evenly.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight. This will allow the flavors to penetrate the chicken.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Remove the chicken from the marinade and shake off any excess.
- Grill the chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit when measured with a meat thermometer.
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Tips:
- For a more intense flavor, marinate the chicken for longer.
- If you don’t have a grill, you can cook the chicken in a grill pan over medium-high heat.
- Serve the chicken with your favorite sides, such as rice, beans, or grilled vegetables.
- Leftover chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Variations:
- Add a teaspoon of honey to the marinade for a touch of sweetness.
- Use orange juice instead of lime juice for a different flavor profile.
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the marinade for a little bit of heat.
- Grill the chicken on skewers for a fun and easy appetizer.
Nutritional Information:
One serving of Cilantro Lime Grilled Chicken contains approximately:
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 10 grams
- Protein: 35 grams
- Carbohydrates: 5 grams
Conclusion:
Cilantro Lime Grilled Chicken is a delicious and healthy summer meal that is sure to please everyone at the table. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for any occasion. So fire up your grill and give this recipe a try today!
Additional Tips for Grilling Chicken:
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the chicken is cooked through.
- Don’t overcook the chicken, or it will become dry and tough.
- Let the chicken rest before slicing and serving. This will allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful chicken.
- If you’re grilling chicken breasts, pound them to an even thickness before cooking. This will help them cook evenly.
- Don’t overcrowd the grill. This will prevent the chicken from cooking evenly and will make it more likely to stick.
- Clean your grill grates before and after grilling. This will help prevent the chicken from sticking and will extend the life of your grill.
Enjoy your Cilantro Lime Grilled Chicken!