Summer Lime Chicken Breasts
Juicy grilled chicken breasts infused with zesty lime and fresh cilantro, perfect for casual summer gatherings or quick weeknight dinners with vibrant flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Trim excess fat from the chicken breasts.
- Pound the chicken between waxed paper to flatten slightly.
- Combine olive oil, lime juice, minced garlic, cilantro, salt, and pepper; pour over the chicken to marinate.
- Marinate the chicken for 1 hour.
- Grill or broil the chicken for 5 minutes on each side until cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use fresh lime juice instead of bottled for a brighter flavor. If you want to add some heat, consider including diced jalapeños in the marinade. If cilantro isn't your favorite, parsley can be a good substitute. Ensure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F for safety. This recipe is delicious when served in wraps, similar to Ranchero Roll-Ups.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the lime chicken breasts atop a bed of rice or alongside grilled vegetables for a vibrant meal. Pair with a fresh salad for a light option, or consider serving with tortillas for a fun twist, much like in Chicken Acapulco With Peanuts. Garnish with extra lime wedges and cilantro for added freshness.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover marinated chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to keep it moist, cooking until heated through, about 5-7 minutes. You can also reheat it in the microwave in short intervals.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Summer Lime Chicken Breasts contains roughly 231 calories, with 21g protein, 2g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (42% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 946mg per serving (41% 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 bone-in chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use bone-in chicken, but cooking times will vary. Bone-in pieces will generally take longer to cook, about 10-15 minutes more on the grill. Make sure to check the internal temperature to ensure they reach 165°F.
What can I serve with the Summer Lime Chicken?
This chicken pairs well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with a light quinoa salad, or roasted sweet potatoes. For a more Mexican flair, serve with Zesty Chicken Taco Rice Salad for a delightful combination.
Can I marinate the chicken overnight?
Absolutely! Marinating the chicken overnight will enhance the flavors even more. Just be cautious not to marinate for too long, as the acidity from the lime juice can start to break down the chicken's texture.
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).