The sun is shining and Cinco de Mayo is approaching. I have a strong desire for vibrant and fresh flavors, specifically cilantro and lime. Although I would love to have margaritas, my body can no longer handle them in large quantities. Instead, I am going to satisfy my cravings by infusing those flavors into chicken. This Easy Cilantro Lime Chicken is a simplified version of my previous recipe, Cilantro Lime Chicken Drumsticks, which required baking in the oven. Using a skillet is much quicker and easier, and the boneless thighs I opted for are consistently tender and juicy. There are various options available for this recipe, so keep reading to learn more!
Displayed alongside Quick Seasoned Black Beans and Simple Taco Rice.
Can I Use Chicken Breast?
Absolutely, boneless and skinless chicken breast can be used for this recipe. However, chicken breasts require a bit more attention. Before cooking, it is crucial to pound them to an even thickness, not exceeding 3/4″, as they tend to dry out faster. This step guarantees that the chicken will cook evenly and swiftly, without losing its moisture.
Can I Use Bone-In Chicken?
I recommend avoiding bone-in chicken for this fast skillet method, as it requires more time to cook thoroughly. Instead, I suggest checking out my recipe for Cilantro Lime Chicken Drumsticks (you can use drumsticks or thighs), which is prepared by baking in the oven.
Can I Cook the Cilantro Lime Chicken on a Grill?
Certainly. Begin by marinating the chicken as you typically would, and proceed to grill it until both sides are well browned and fully cooked. The utilization of an open flame during the grilling process will enhance the flavor profile of this chicken even further.
What to Serve with Cilantro Lime Chicken
Cowboy Caviar is my go-to side dish for Cilantro Lime Chicken, although it pairs wonderfully with Quick Seasoned Black Beans and Taco Rice, Cumin Lime Coleslaw, Arroz Verde (Green Rice), Sweet Corn Salsa, or Warm Corn and Avocado Salad as well. Another delicious option is to chop up the chicken and stuff it into tacos, or slice it and place it on top of your favorite salad!
To view the step-by-step photos, please scroll down.
How to Make Cilantro Lime Chicken – Step by Step Photos
To start the cilantro lime marinade, mix together 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 4 minced garlic cloves, 1/2 teaspoon of cumin, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and a few twists of freshly cracked pepper (approximately 10 turns of a pepper mill) in a small bowl.
Start by zesting and juicing one of the limes. Make sure to extract about 2-3 tablespoons of lime juice. If necessary, juice half of the second lime as well. Afterwards, slice any remaining lime into wedges to accompany the cooked chicken. Proceed by roughly chopping half of the bunch of cilantro. Half of the cilantro will be added to the marinade, while the other half will be used as a garnish for the cooked chicken.
Combine half of the diced cilantro, 1 teaspoon of lime zest, and 2-3 tablespoons of lime juice (adjust according to the amount of juice extracted from your lime) with the marinade. Mix well.
Place six boneless, skinless chicken thighs (approximately 1.5 to 1.75 pounds in total) into a shallow dish or large zip top bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken and ensure it is evenly coated by tossing. Allow the chicken to marinate for 30 minutes (or up to 8 hours in the refrigerator), occasionally flipping it to ensure all sides are marinated.
To prepare the chicken, preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat. It is important to ensure the skillet is sufficiently hot to achieve a quick and well-browned chicken. Avoid low heat or overcrowding the skillet, as it may result in a soupy texture and lack of browning. If necessary, cook the chicken in two separate batches. Cook each side for approximately 5 minutes, or until it is browned and thoroughly cooked.
Combine the cooked chicken with the remaining chopped cilantro.
You can either squeeze fresh lime juice over the cooked chicken or provide lime wedges for each individual to squeeze onto their own serving.
The burst of lime is absolutely delightful.
You can also easily meal prep this dish, which includes Easy Cilantro Lime Chicken, Quick Seasoned Black Beans, and Easy Taco Rice!
