Are you ready to elevate your dinner game with a burst of zesty flavor? Look no further than our "Touch of Lime Chicken" recipe, a delightful Mexican-inspired dish that promises to tantalize your taste buds and impress your guests. With just a handful of ingredients and a quick prep time, this juicy, marinated chicken will become your go-to weeknight meal. Perfectly grilled or skillet-cooked, it’s a dish that balances simplicity with vibrant flavors, making every bite a celebration of freshness. Dive into the recipe below and discover how easy it is to bring a touch of lime to your table!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup lime juice
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine lime juice, olive oil, minced garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper to create a marinade. Whisk ingredients until well blended.
- Place chicken breasts in a large resealable plastic bag and pour the marinade over them. Seal the bag and gently massage to ensure chicken is evenly coated. Refrigerate and let marinate for 15-30 minutes (for best flavor, do not exceed 30 minutes to prevent lime juice from breaking down chicken proteins).
- Preheat grill or large skillet to medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade, discarding remaining liquid.
- If using a skillet, add a small amount of olive oil. Cook chicken for 6-7 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). If grilling, cook for 5-6 minutes per side with the lid closed.
- Remove chicken from heat and let rest for 3-5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute, which ensures moist and tender meat.
- Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro before serving. Optionally, serve with lime wedges on the side for extra citrus flavor.
Tips
- Marination Time: For the best flavor, let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes, but avoid exceeding this time to prevent the lime juice from breaking down the chicken proteins, which can make it mushy.
- Grilling vs. Skillet: If you have a grill, use it! The smoky flavor complements the lime beautifully. If using a skillet, ensure it’s preheated to medium-high for a nice sear.
- Check Temperature: To ensure your chicken is perfectly cooked, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Resting Period: After cooking, let the chicken rest for 3-5 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat moist and tender.
- Garnish and Serve: Don’t skip the cilantro garnish! It adds a fresh touch that enhances the dish. Consider serving with lime wedges on the side for an extra citrusy kick.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 220kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 95mg
