Grilled Chicken With Cilantro Butter
Juicy grilled chicken breasts topped with a vibrant cilantro butter, perfect for a flavorful and fresh main course suitable for summer barbecues and family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat grill to medium heat.
- In a small dish, combine chopped garlic, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper.
- Mash into a paste using the back side of a large spoon.
- Add grated lime peel to the garlic mixture.
- Wash hands after preparing.
- Brush chicken breasts with olive oil.
- Grill chicken for about 6-8 minutes per side or until cooked through.
- While the chicken grills, prepare cilantro butter by mixing chopped cilantro with melted butter.
- Once chicken is cooked, top with cilantro butter and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, marinate the chicken in the garlic and lime mixture for a few hours before grilling. If you don’t have fresh cilantro, parsley can be a suitable substitute, though the flavor will differ. To save time, use pre-minced garlic. Be careful not to overcook the chicken; a meat thermometer should read 165°F when done.
Serving Suggestions
This grilled chicken pairs beautifully with a fresh salad or grilled vegetables for a light meal. Consider serving it alongside rice or quinoa for a heartier option. A squeeze of fresh lime over the top enhances the dish. For a complete dinner, browse more American recipes that highlight chicken, such as Creamy Chicken Casserole (Easy).
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave it on medium power for 2-3 minutes, but this may make the chicken less juicy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grilled Chicken With Cilantro Butter contains roughly 386 calories, with 22g protein, 8g carbohydrates, and 29g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (45% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1894mg per serving (82% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs work well in this recipe and are often more flavorful and juicy than breasts. Just ensure they are cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F. Adjust the grilling time slightly, as thighs may take a bit longer depending on their size.
What can I substitute for lime peel?
If you don’t have lime peel, you can use lemon peel as a substitute. Alternatively, a splash of lime juice can also add a nice citrus flavor, but use it sparingly to avoid making the butter too watery.
Can I prepare the cilantro butter in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the cilantro butter ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just give it a good stir before using it on the grilled chicken. It can also be frozen for longer storage; just thaw it in the fridge when ready to use.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).