I’ll never forget the first time I made this Cilantro Lime Grilled Chicken—it was a sunny Saturday, and the kitchen smelled like vacation.
The zingy lime, earthy cilantro, and juicy chicken come together like a backyard BBQ dream.
This recipe is one of my absolute favorites for meal prep, picnics, or easy summer dinners.
It’s fresh, flavorful, and honestly foolproof.
Why I Love This Recipe
Bursting with citrus-herb flavor in every bite
Perfect for grilling or the air fryer
Great for low-carb, gluten-free, or paleo diets
Marinate it overnight for an easy weeknight cook
Leftovers taste even better the next day
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Chicken breasts: Boneless, skinless, and pounded evenly for perfect cooking
Lime zest & juice: Brings brightness and tang
Fresh cilantro: Adds freshness and depth—half goes in the marinade, half for garnish
Garlic: Minced for aromatic punch
Olive oil: Helps the marinade stick and adds richness
Salt & pepper: Keeps the flavor balanced and savory
Pro Tips Before You Start
Use a meat mallet to pound chicken to even thickness—it helps cook evenly.
Don’t skip the zest—it adds deeper lime flavor than juice alone.
The longer it marinates, the better the flavor—overnight is ideal.
Let the chicken rest a few minutes before slicing so juices stay inside.
For smoky depth, grill over real charcoal if you can!
How to Make Cilantro Lime Grilled Chicken
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Pound the thicker end of each chicken breast to make it level with the thinner end.
This ensures even cooking.
Step 2: Make the Marinade
In a large glass or ceramic container (or a gallon freezer bag), combine lime juice, lime zest, olive oil, minced garlic, ¼ cup chopped cilantro, salt, and pepper.
Step 3: Marinate the Chicken
Add chicken to the marinade and coat thoroughly on both sides.
Seal and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight if possible, turning halfway through for even flavor.
Step 4: Grill It
When ready to cook, preheat a grill or grill pan over medium to medium-high heat.
Oil the grates or pan.
Grill the chicken for about 5 minutes per side, until nicely charred and cooked through in the center.
Step 5: Serve
Transfer to a platter and squeeze fresh lime over the top.
Garnish with the remaining cilantro for a bright, herby finish.
Air Fryer Option
Preheat the air fryer to 380°F.
Place chicken in a single layer and air fry for 5 minutes per side, or until fully cooked through.
What to Serve It With
Steamed rice or cilantro-lime rice
Grilled corn on the cob
A light avocado salad or mango salsa
Warm tortillas for taco-style wraps
Quinoa or cauliflower rice for low-carb meals
Variations / Substitutions
Use boneless thighs instead of breasts for richer flavor
Swap lime for lemon for a different citrus twist
Add chili flakes or sliced jalapeño for heat
Blend the marinade for a smoother consistency
Try orange juice for a sweet-savory profile
Storage & Leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days.
You can freeze marinated uncooked chicken for up to 2 months.
Reheat gently in the microwave or a skillet with a splash of water to keep it moist.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, just make sure it’s fully thawed before marinating.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
At least 1 hour, but overnight gives the best flavor.
Can I bake this instead of grilling?
Absolutely—bake at 400°F for 20–25 minutes or until fully cooked.
Is this recipe spicy?
No, it’s mild—but you can add chili flakes or hot sauce if desired.
Can I meal prep with this?
Yes, it’s great for salads, wraps, or lunch bowls throughout the week.
Do I have to use fresh cilantro?
Fresh is best, but dried can work in a pinch—use half the amount.
How do I know when the chicken is done?
Use a thermometer—internal temp should be 165°F (75°C).
Final Thoughts
This Cilantro Lime Grilled Chicken is one of those recipes that delivers every time—zesty, juicy, and incredibly easy.
Whether you throw it on the grill or pop it in the air fryer, the flavor payoff is massive for minimal effort.
It’s the kind of dish that makes healthy eating feel like a treat.
