Description
A flavorful and easy-to-make grilled Southwest chicken recipe marinated with lime, cilantro, and spices. Perfect for grilling or baking, this versatile dish pairs well with salads, rice bowls, tacos, or enchiladas.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts
Marinade
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt (or to taste)
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a freezer bag. In a bowl or glass measuring cup, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, cilantro, chili powder, cumin, oregano, smoked paprika, garlic powder, kosher salt, and black pepper. Pour the marinade over the chicken in the bag.
- Seal and Refrigerate: Press out the air from the bag and seal it tightly. Massage the marinade into the chicken to evenly coat. Refrigerate for 1 to 3 hours to let the flavors infuse.
- Prepare for Cooking: Remove the chicken from the fridge 30 minutes before cooking to bring it to room temperature. Preheat your grill or oven to 400°F. If grilling, clean and oil the grates to prevent sticking. If baking, line a rimmed baking sheet with foil for easy cleanup.
- Grill the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts on the preheated grill. Cook for 4 to 6 minutes on one side, then flip and cook for another 4 to 6 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Adjust cooking time based on the thickness of the chicken breasts.
- Bake the Chicken (Alternative Method): If baking, arrange the marinated chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the oven for 20 to 30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Rest and Serve: Let the chicken rest for 5 to 10 minutes after cooking to retain juices. Slice and serve with your favorite sides, add it to salads, rice bowls, tacos, or enchiladas for a delicious meal.
Notes
- Marinating the chicken for at least 1 hour enhances the flavor, but avoid exceeding 3 hours to prevent texture changes.
- Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F to guarantee the chicken is fully cooked and safe to eat.
- Resting the chicken after cooking helps retain moisture and improves tenderness.
- You can substitute fresh cilantro with dried, but use less as dried herbs are more concentrated.
- Adjust spice levels by modifying chili powder and paprika amounts to suit your taste.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Southwestern
