Cilantro Lime Grilled Chicken

This cilantro lime grilled chicken has become my go-to for busy weeknights and weekend gatherings alike. The bright, zesty flavors transform ordinary chicken breasts into something truly special, while the fresh avocado topping adds a creamy contrast that makes the dish shine.

I first made this recipe during a summer cookout when I was tired of the same old barbecue chicken. My guests couldn't stop raving about it, and now it's requested at nearly every gathering I host during grilling season.

Ingredients

• Boneless skinless chicken breasts: The lean protein base that carries all the wonderful marinade flavors
• Garlic cloves: Fresh garlic provides an aromatic punch that dried simply cannot match
• Olive oil: Helps carry flavors into the chicken and prevents sticking on the grill
• Fresh cilantro: The signature herb that gives this dish its distinctive flavor profile
• Lime juice: Provides brightness and helps tenderize the chicken naturally
• Cumin: Adds earthy warmth that complements the cilantro beautifully
• Paprika: Contributes subtle smokiness and gorgeous color when grilled
• Avocados: Their buttery texture creates the perfect contrast to the lean grilled chicken
• Tomato: Adds fresh acidity and color to the topping
• Red onion: Provides a pleasant bite that balances the creamy avocado

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the marinade:

Combine garlic, olive oil, cilantro, lime juice, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper in a bowl, stirring well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed throughout the liquid ingredients. This aromatic base will infuse your chicken with layers of flavor.

Marinate the chicken:

Place your chicken breasts in the marinade, making sure each piece is completely coated. I recommend using a ziplock bag as it allows you to easily massage the marinade into every surface of the meat. Let this rest in the refrigerator for at least an hour, though overnight works wonderfully if you want to prepare ahead.

Preheat and grill:

Heat your grill to medium heat around 375°F. Place the marinated chicken directly on the grates and cook for approximately 6 minutes per side. Look for nice grill marks and an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure proper doneness without drying out the meat.

Prepare the topping:

While the chicken cooks, combine diced avocados, tomato, red onion, cilantro, and lime juice in a bowl. Gently fold these ingredients together rather than stirring vigorously to maintain the integrity of the avocado pieces.

Rest and serve:

Allow the grilled chicken to rest for 5 minutes before serving to keep it juicy. Top each piece with a generous spoonful of the avocado mixture and serve immediately while still warm.

Save This

The first time I made this recipe, I accidentally doubled the lime juice in the marinade. Rather than a disaster, it created an intensely citrusy chicken that my family now prefers over the original version. Sometimes the best cooking moments come from happy accidents in the kitchen.

Make Ahead Options

The chicken can be marinated up to 24 hours in advance, making this perfect for planning ahead. The longer marinating time actually improves the flavor, allowing the acids in the lime juice to tenderize the meat while the herbs and spices infuse more deeply. If you want to prepare even further ahead, you can freeze the chicken in the marinade for up to 3 months. Simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight before grilling.

Perfect Pairings

This cilantro lime chicken pairs beautifully with Mexican inspired sides. Try serving it with cilantro lime rice, black beans, or a simple side salad with a citrus vinaigrette. For a lower carb option, cauliflower rice seasoned with the same flavor profile works wonderfully. When entertaining, I often set up a build your own taco bar with this chicken as the protein option, alongside warm tortillas and additional toppings like cheese, sour cream, and hot sauce.

Ingredient Substitutions

If cilantro isnt your thing, fresh parsley makes a good alternative, though it will change the flavor profile. For those avoiding avocados, a simple cucumber and tomato salsa provides a refreshing topping with fewer calories. Chicken thighs can be substituted for breasts if you prefer darker meat, just adjust your cooking time slightly as thighs typically take a bit longer to cook through. In a pinch, bottled lime juice works, but fresh really does make a noticeable difference in the brightness of the final dish.

Common Queries

→ How long should the chicken marinate for best flavor?

For the most flavorful results, marinate the chicken for at least 1 hour, though overnight will intensify the taste.

→ What type of chicken is recommended?

Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for quicker grilling and easy slicing. Thighs can be substituted if you prefer juicier meat.

→ Can I grill the chicken indoors?

Absolutely. You can use a cast iron grill pan or an indoor electric grill to achieve great results year-round.

→ What sides pair well with this dish?

Serve with cauliflower rice, mixed greens, or roasted vegetables for a complete and balanced meal.

→ How do I know the chicken is cooked through?

The chicken is ready when its internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the juices run clear.