Grilled Cilantro Lime Chicken Breasts

by

Grilled Cilantro Lime Chicken Breasts

Tender, zesty, and bursting with fresh flavor — these Grilled Cilantro Lime Chicken Breasts are perfect for summer dinners, meal prep, or a healthy family meal. Whether cooked on a grill or in the air fryer, this recipe delivers juicy, flavorful results every time.

 Ingredients

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • Juice and zest of 2 limes
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon chili flakes (optional, for heat)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • ½ cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped (divided use)

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken

In a large bowl or resealable bag, combine olive oil, lime juice and zest, garlic, cumin, paprika, chili flakes, salt, pepper, and half of the chopped cilantro. Add the chicken breasts, turning to coat evenly.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 8 hours for maximum flavor.

2. Grill Method (Outdoor or Grill Pan)

  1. Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium to medium-high heat.
  2. Remove chicken from the marinade, letting excess drip off.
  3. Place chicken on the grill and cook for 5 minutes per side, or until charred and cooked through (internal temp: 165°F / 74°C).
  4. Transfer to a serving plate and squeeze the remaining lime juice over the top.
  5. Garnish with the remaining fresh cilantro before serving.

3. Air Fryer Directions

Prefer a fuss-free method? The air fryer works beautifully too:

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C).
  2. Arrange the marinated chicken breasts in a single layer in the basket.
  3. Cook for 5 minutes per side, or until golden and fully cooked through.
  4. Finish with a squeeze of fresh lime and a sprinkle of cilantro.

 Tips & Variations

  • No chicken breasts? Substitute with boneless chicken thighs for an extra juicy option.
  • Change it up! Use the same marinade base and swap lime for lemon and cilantro for basil. Orange and rosemary also make a lovely combo.
  • Serving ideas: Slice and serve over rice, tuck into tacos, pair with a fresh salad, or use for meal prep bowls.

Nutrition Information

Per Serving (1 chicken breast):

  • Calories: 217 kcal
  • Protein: 38.5 g
  • Fat: 5.5 g
  • Saturated Fat: 1 g
  • Carbohydrates: 0.5 g
  • Fiber: 0.5 g
  • Sugar: 0.5 g
  • Cholesterol: 124 mg
  • Sodium: 360 mg

Leave a Comment