The tantalizing aroma of cilantro lime chicken wafts through the kitchen, promising a burst of fresh flavors that make your taste buds dance. perfect side dish for chicken The zesty lime and fragrant cilantro mingle perfectly, creating a dish that’s as vibrant as a summer’s day at the beach. crispy potato side option zesty citrus sauce pairing.
Imagine biting into tender chicken, marinated to perfection, complemented by a refreshing corn salsa that adds a crunchy surprise. This dish is perfect for family barbecues or cozy weeknight dinners, where every bite brings joy and laughter around the table. For more inspiration, check out this coconut curry beef noodle soup recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This cilantro lime chicken with fresh corn salsa is easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
- The flavor profile bursts with tangy lime and herbaceous cilantro, leaving your taste buds singing
- Its visually appealing colors brighten any plate, making it Instagram-ready
- Versatile enough to serve on tacos or over rice, this dish adapts to your cravings effortlessly
Everyone loved my cilantro lime chicken at last month’s family gathering; even my picky cousin went back for seconds!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust depending on how many are joining the feast.
- Fresh Cilantro: Select bright green leaves without wilting for maximum flavor and freshness.
- Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice elevates the dish compared to bottled alternatives.
- Garlic Cloves: Use firm garlic cloves for a pungent kick that enhances the marinade.
- Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil lends richness and helps the marinade cling beautifully to the chicken.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning; feel free to adjust according to your taste preferences.
For the Salsa:
- Fresh Corn: Choose sweet corn kernels for a burst of sweetness in every bite.
- Red Onion: Adds a crunchy texture and sharp flavor; finely chop for best results.
- Cherry Tomatoes: Their juiciness complements the salsa nicely; halved or quartered works great!
- Jalapeño Pepper: Optional heat; remove seeds if you prefer a milder flavor.
- Lime Zest: A sprinkle of zest amplifies the lime flavor in the salsa wonderfully.
- A pinch of Sugar (optional): Balances acidity from tomatoes and enhances sweetness of corn.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below. For more inspiration, check out this sous vide ribeye steak recipe.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepare the Marinade: In a mixing bowl, combine freshly squeezed lime juice, minced garlic, chopped cilantro, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Whisk until well-blended.
Marinate the Chicken: Place chicken breasts in a resealable bag or shallow dish. Pour marinade over them and ensure they are thoroughly coated. Let them rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to soak up all those delicious flavors.
Cook the Chicken: Preheat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade and grill each side for about 6-7 minutes until cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
Create Fresh Corn Salsa: While chicken cooks, mix fresh corn kernels, diced red onion, halved cherry tomatoes, chopped jalapeño (if using), lime zest, and sugar in a separate bowl. Toss until well combined.
Assemble Your Dish: Once cooked through and juicy, slice the chicken against the grain. Serve on plates topped generously with fresh corn salsa. Enjoy!
This cilantro lime chicken with fresh corn salsa offers not just flavors but an experience that will have everyone asking for seconds! creamy dip with a twist.
You Must Know
- This cilantro lime chicken with fresh corn salsa is more than a meal; it’s a flavor fiesta!
- The zesty marinade keeps the chicken juicy while the fresh salsa adds a vibrant crunch
- Perfect for summer BBQs or quick weeknight dinners
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Sear the chicken first to lock in juices, then finish cooking it in the oven for perfect doneness. This method ensures a golden crust while keeping the inside moist and tender.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out cilantro for parsley if you’re not a fan. You can also add diced avocado or jalapeños for an extra kick of flavor and texture.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover cilantro lime chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven to maintain its juiciness without drying it out.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly seasoned chicken, marinate it overnight for maximum flavor infusion
- Avoid overcrowding your pan when searing; this ensures even browning
- Always let your chicken rest before slicing to keep those delicious juices intact
Cooking this dish reminds me of the time I surprised my friends with a backyard BBQ. They couldn’t stop raving about how good the chicken was, which made my day!
FAQ
What can I serve with cilantro lime chicken?
Serve it with rice, tortillas, or a crisp green salad for a complete meal.
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, just ensure it’s fully thawed before marinating and cooking.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
Marinating for at least 30 minutes will enhance flavors; overnight is even better!
Cilantro Lime Chicken with Fresh Corn Salsa
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Experience a burst of fresh flavors with this Cilantro Lime Chicken, perfectly marinated and grilled to juicy perfection. Paired with a vibrant corn salsa, it’s an ideal dish for summer barbecues or cozy weeknight dinners. Each bite promises a delightful combination of zesty lime and fragrant cilantro that will have your taste buds dancing!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 1 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup fresh corn kernels (about 2 ears of corn)
- 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 jalapeño pepper, diced (optional)
- Zest of 1 lime
- 1 tsp sugar (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together lime juice, garlic, cilantro, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place chicken in a resealable bag or dish. Pour marinade over the chicken and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Cook the Chicken: Preheat grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Grill chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side until cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
- Make the Salsa: In a bowl, combine corn, red onion, cherry tomatoes, jalapeño (if using), lime zest, and sugar. Toss to combine.
- Serve: Slice the chicken against the grain and top with fresh corn salsa before enjoying.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with salsa (about 250g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
