| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 20 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 150 | 5g | 1.5g | 3g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 2g | 1g | 23g | 0.5g |
One of the most rewarding aspects of combining flavors from my Cuban and Spanish heritage is finding the perfect harmony between spices and herbs. In the Mint and Coriander Chicken recipe, this harmonious dance is fully realized. It’s a dish that epitomizes my approach to cooking—balancing bright, tropical flavors with traditional techniques from my cultural roots.
Elevating Everyday Ingredients
What I adore about Mint and Coriander Chicken is how it transforms everyday ingredients into something special. Fresh mint and coriander (cilantro) are the backbone of many dishes in Caribbean and Southeast Asian cuisines, but when paired with garlic, ginger, and a selection of spices, they create a melody of flavors that’s both exciting and comforting. This mix lifts the chicken, making it succulent and aromatic.
A Recipe With Health Benefits
Beyond its enticing flavor profile, this recipe packs in numerous health benefits. The combination of mint and coriander is not only refreshing but also offers digestive and anti-inflammatory properties. Fresh herbs like these are full of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. The Greek yogurt serves as a natural tenderizer for the chicken, adding a creamy texture while being a great source of probiotics and protein. Lemon juice provides a zesty kick, but it’s also rich in Vitamin C, enhancing your immune system. For a more in-depth look at the benefits of fresh herbs, you might find this article on Health.com quite interesting.
A Versatile Culinary Companion
There are few recipes as versatile as this one. The Mint and Coriander Chicken pairs wonderfully with a side of fluffy basmati rice or a fresh, crunchy salad—even something as simple as roasted vegetables can turn your meal into a feast. This dish’s vibrant flavor profile also makes it an excellent companion to Spanish classics like patatas bravas or even a tropical fruit salsa. Each bite is like a mini-vacation, suitable for both weeknight dinners and weekend gatherings.
If you’re a fan of dishes that bring a burst of fresh flavors to your palate, you might also enjoy recipes like Cilantro Lime Chicken. Both dishes share a similar herbal zest but shine in their unique ways.
Ultimately, what makes Mint and Coriander Chicken so exceptional is its ability to be nutritious, flavorful, and adaptable to various side dishes. Whether you’re looking for a health-conscious meal or a flavorful dinner option, this dish is a delicious way to elevate your everyday cooking.
What You’ll Need
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
- 1 cup fresh coriander (cilantro) leaves, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch piece of ginger, grated
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp ground coriander
- 1/2 tsp ground turmeric
- 1/2 tsp salt, or to taste
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Method
Step One
Begin by preparing the marinade. In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped fresh mint leaves, chopped fresh coriander (cilantro) leaves, minced garlic, grated ginger, plain Greek yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, ground cumin, ground coriander, ground turmeric, salt, and black pepper. Mix all the ingredients thoroughly until well combined.
Step Two
Cut the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are well-coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.
Step Three
Preheat your grill or oven to 375°F (190°C). If using a grill, lightly oil the grates to prevent the chicken from sticking. If using an oven, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil.
Step Four
Remove the marinated chicken from the refrigerator and thread the pieces onto skewers if grilling. If baking, spread the chicken pieces evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
Step Five
Grill the chicken skewers for about 10-12 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is cooked through and has a nice char. If baking, cook the chicken in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is no longer pink in the center and juices run clear.
Step Six
Transfer the cooked chicken to a serving platter. Garnish with additional fresh mint and coriander leaves if desired. Serve hot with your choice of sides such as rice, naan, or a fresh salad. Enjoy your Mint and Coriander Chicken!
