Are you tired of the same old boring grilled chicken? Do you want to add a burst of flavor to your chicken without adding too many calories? Look no further than this delicious cilantro lime chicken marinade recipe.
This recipe is perfect for those who love a little bit of spice in their life. The combination of tangy lime and fragrant cilantro creates a flavorful twist to your chicken that will leave your taste buds wanting more. Not only is this recipe easy to make, but it’s also healthy and can be made ahead of time, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 limes, juiced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, cilantro, garlic, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Add the chicken breasts to the marinade, making sure they are completely coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 24 hours.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard any excess marinade.
- Grill the chicken for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve with your favorite side dishes and enjoy!
Why Cilantro Lime Chicken Marinade is the Best Marinade for Grilled Chicken
Cilantro lime chicken marinade is one of the best marinades for grilled chicken, and for good reason. Not only does it add a burst of flavor to your chicken, but it’s also healthy and easy to make.
Lime juice is a key ingredient in this marinade, and it adds a tangy, citrusy flavor to the chicken. Lime juice is also a great source of vitamin C, which helps boost your immune system and fight off infections. Additionally, lime juice can help tenderize the meat, making it more tender and juicy.
Cilantro is another important ingredient in this marinade. Cilantro has a fresh, herbaceous flavor that pairs perfectly with the lime juice. Cilantro is also a good source of vitamins A and K, and it has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties.
Olive oil is used in this marinade to help keep the chicken moist and tender. Olive oil is a healthy fat that can help reduce inflammation in the body and lower the risk of heart disease.
The spices used in this marinade, such as cumin and chili powder, add a touch of heat and depth of flavor to the chicken. These spices have also been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties and may help boost metabolism.
Tips for Making the Best Cilantro Lime Chicken Marinade
- Use fresh lime juice: Fresh lime juice is essential for this marinade. The bottled lime juice just won’t cut it. If you don’t have fresh limes, you can substitute them with fresh lemon juice.
- Don’t over-marinate the chicken: Over-marinating the chicken can actually make it tough and chewy. Thirty minutes to a few hours is plenty of time for the chicken to absorb the flavors.
- Let the chicken rest: Letting the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling allows the juices to redistribute and ensures that the chicken stays moist and juicy.
- Use a meat thermometer: The more accurate your cooking temperature, the better your chicken will turn out. Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F before serving.
- Double the recipe: This marinade is great for meal prep. Double the recipe and use it to marinate chicken for the entire week. You can store the marinated chicken in the refrigerator for up to four days or freeze it for later use.
- Experiment with different spices: If you’re not a fan of cumin or chili powder, feel free to experiment with different spices. Paprika, coriander, or even a little bit of curry powder would be a great addition to this marinade.
Conclusion
In conclusion, cilantro lime chicken marinade is a flavorful and healthy twist to your grilled chicken. It’s easy to make and can be customized to suit your taste buds. This marinade is perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep, and it’s sure to become a family favorite. By following these tips and tricks, you can create the best cilantro lime chicken marinade that will leave your taste buds begging for more.
Remember, fresh ingredients are key to making the best marinade. Use fresh lime juice, cilantro, and spices to ensure that your chicken is bursting with flavor. Don’t forget to let the chicken rest before serving, and use a meat thermometer to ensure that the chicken is cooked to perfection. With this recipe, you’ll never have to settle for bland grilled chicken again.