Cilantro and lime create an unbeatable flavor combination that can elevate even the simplest of dishes. If you're looking for a burst of fresh, tangy, and slightly spicy flavors, then these cilantro lime chicken recipes by Rachel Ray are just what you need. Whether you're cooking for a family dinner, hosting a summer BBQ, or simply want to try something new for your meal prep, these recipes will satisfy your culinary cravings. Here are three easy-to-make recipes that showcase the delightful zest of cilantro and lime.
Cilantro Lime Grilled Chicken
Grilling brings out the best in chicken, and when marinated with cilantro and lime, it becomes a mouthwatering delight. Here’s how you can make this savory dish:
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Juice and zest of 2 limes
- 3 tablespoons fresh cilantro, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine lime juice, zest, cilantro, garlic, olive oil, honey, cumin, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts, ensuring they are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or up to 4 hours.
- Prepare the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Grill the Chicken: Place the chicken on the grill, cooking for about 5-7 minutes per side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Rest and Serve: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve with your favorite sides like rice or salad for a complete meal.
👩🍳 Note: Always check the internal temperature to ensure the chicken is cooked through to avoid any health risks.
Cilantro Lime Chicken Tacos
Tacos are a crowd-pleaser, and when you add cilantro lime chicken, they become irresistible. Here’s a simple recipe for tacos:
Ingredients
- 6 corn or flour tortillas
- Marinated Cilantro Lime Chicken from above, sliced or shredded
- 1 cup shredded cheese (like Jack or cheddar)
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1 small red onion, finely chopped
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
- Lime wedges for serving
- Cilantro lime crema (mix equal parts of sour cream, lime juice, and chopped cilantro)
Instructions
- Warm Tortillas: Heat the tortillas on a grill or in a skillet until they are warm and pliable.
- Assemble Tacos: Fill each tortilla with slices of grilled chicken, top with cheese, avocado, red onion, and a dollop of cilantro lime crema.
- Garnish: Sprinkle extra cilantro on top and serve with lime wedges on the side.
🌮 Note: Tortillas can be warmed directly on the grill for an authentic smoky flavor.
Cilantro Lime Chicken Rice Bowl
For a hearty yet healthy meal, a cilantro lime chicken rice bowl can be the perfect choice. Here’s how to put one together:
Ingredients
- Cooked white or brown rice
- Marinated Cilantro Lime Chicken, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup corn kernels (frozen, canned, or fresh)
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1⁄2 cup sour cream
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
- Optional toppings: salsa, cheese, or guacamole
Instructions
- Cook Chicken: If you haven’t already grilled the chicken, do so now according to the marinating recipe above.
- Prepare Rice: Cook the rice as per package instructions. Fluff it with a fork when done.
- Assemble Bowl: In a bowl, start with a base of rice, then add chicken, black beans, corn, and tomatoes. Drizzle with sour cream, sprinkle with cilantro, and add any additional toppings as desired.
🍚 Note: Pre-cook the rice for quicker meal assembly or to save time during dinner prep.
To wrap up, cilantro lime chicken recipes bring a touch of freshness and zest that can turn ordinary chicken dishes into gourmet delights. From the smoky grilled chicken to the flavorful tacos and hearty rice bowls, these recipes not only expand your culinary repertoire but also introduce an array of vibrant flavors that are both simple to prepare and delicious to eat. Each dish can be easily customized with additional ingredients or adjusted to suit different dietary needs, making them versatile for any occasion. Whether you're in the mood for a quick weeknight meal or something special for guests, these cilantro lime chicken dishes are sure to impress.
Can I use dried cilantro in these recipes?
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Fresh cilantro provides the best flavor for these dishes due to its vibrant taste and aroma. However, if you only have dried cilantro, you can use it, but use about one-third the amount since it’s more concentrated in flavor.
How long can I marinate the chicken?
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The chicken can be marinated for as little as 30 minutes or up to 24 hours. Longer marinating times will infuse more flavor, but be cautious as the acid in the lime juice might start to cook the chicken if left for too long.
What are some good side dishes to serve with cilantro lime chicken?
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Consider serving with sides like black bean salad, Mexican street corn, or a simple green salad with a citrus vinaigrette. These complement the flavors in the chicken nicely.
Can I make these recipes ahead of time?
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Yes, you can prepare the chicken in advance. The marinated chicken can be frozen, then thawed and grilled or cooked when needed. Also, components like rice, beans, or salsa can be prepped ahead to save time during meal preparation.
