| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 20 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 365 | 20g | 3g | 16g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 11g | 2g | 28g | 0.6g |
The Cilantro-Lime Chicken has long been a favorite of mine. There’s something undeniably vibrant about this dish that incorporates a fascinating blend of tangy citrus, sweet tropical fruits, and the fresh, verdant aroma of cilantro. Paired with succulent chicken, it is a culinary experience that simply doesn’t compare. Whenever I make this dish, it instantly takes me back to those unforgettable cookouts under the Colorado sky with my partner, Gordon, by my side.
Story of the flavors
It’s a symphony of flavors that begins with a base of boneless, skinless chicken breasts. What follows is a whirlwind of citrusy goodness from fresh lime juice and a generous gathering of finely chopped cilantro – the star that gives this recipe its name, Cilantro-Lime Chicken. The delightful punch of garlic, the subtle earthiness of cumin, and the sweetness of honey, together with the flavorful touch of olive oil, set the stage for a feast worth remembering. Not forgetting a bit of salt and pepper for that necessary kick.
Nature’s bounty in every bite
This recipe embraces the beauty of fresh produce, with the inclusion of red onion, diced pineapple, and mango. These ingredients not only contribute to an engaging texture but also bring a remarkable sweetness that contrasts and complements the zesty and savory elements of the dish.
Moreover, the Cilantro-Lime Chicken is more than just an indulgence for your taste buds. The inclusion of fruits like pineapple and mango offer a rich supply of vitamins and antioxidants which are beneficial for overall health. The lean protein from the chicken, coupled with the heart-healthy fats from olive oil, make this dish a nutritious addition to any meal plan. More about the benefits of such fruits can be found here and here.
A dish with versatility
What I love about this recipe is that it is reminiscent of various tropical dishes from across different cuisines, while retaining its unique allure. It pairs well with a variety of side dishes – be it a fresh salad, white or brown rice, or even roasted vegetables for a heartier experience.
From the ease of preparation to the explosion of flavors and the inherent health benefits, the Cilantro-Lime Chicken is a testament to how the right ingredients can create a dish that is as delightful to the eyes as it is to the palate. So, the next time you’re craving something unique and refreshing, why not give the Cilantro-Lime Chicken a try? I assure you, it’s worth the effort!
What You’ll Need
- 1.5 pounds of boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 2 limes, juiced
- 1 large bunch fresh cilantro, finely chopped
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 medium sized red onion, chopped
- 1 cup diced fresh pineapple
- 1 cup diced fresh mango
Method
Step One
Rinse the chicken breasts under cold water and pat dry with a paper towel. Place the chicken in a large bowl or a sealable plastic bag.
Step Two
In a separate bowl, mix together the lime juice, finely chopped cilantro, minced garlic, honey, olive oil, salt, black pepper, and ground cumin. Stir until the ingredients are well combined.
Step Three
Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure all the chicken is well coated. Allow the chicken to marinate in the fridge for at least an hour, but ideally overnight.
Step Four
While the chicken is marinating, chop the red onion and dice the pineapple and mango. Set these aside for later.
Step Five
After the chicken is fully marinated, heat a grill or a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken on each side for about 6-7 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
Step Six
While the chicken is cooking, sauté the chopped onion in a pan with a little bit of olive oil until it becomes translucent. Add the diced pineapple and mango and sauté for a few more minutes until they are slightly caramelized.
Step Seven
Serve the chicken hot, topped with the sautéed onion, pineapple, and mango mix. Enjoy your Cilantro-Lime Chicken with a side of rice or a fresh salad.
