Fresh cilantro, lime zest, garlic, and cumin give this marinade a refreshing, Southwest-inspired flavor. Perfect for chicken tacos, burrito bowls, or colorful chopped salads.
MAKES
4 SERVINGS
QUICK RECIPE OVERVIEW
Why you’ll love it
A fresh, vibrant marinade that adds delicious Southwest-inspired flavor to chicken for tacos, burrito bowls, and salads.
What Makes It So Flavorful?
Fresh cilantro, lime zest, garlic, and cumin create a zesty, aromatic combination with just a hint of warmth.
Helpful Tips
Use both the lime zest and juice for maximum flavor. Reserve a little fresh cilantro to sprinkle over the chicken just before serving.
Cilantro Lime Chicken Marinade
ZESTY · FRESH · VIBRANT
4 SERVINGS | PREP 10 MINUTES | MARINATE 1-4 HOURS
Ingredients:
¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil
¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
2 limes, zested and juiced (about ¼ cup juice)
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon ground cumin
½ teaspoon chili powder
½ teaspoon sea salt
½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Method:
Prepare the marinade. Whisk all ingredients together in a small bowl until well combined.
Add the chicken. Place 1 pound of boneless skinless chicken breasts(about 2 medium chicken breasts), in a glass container or resealable food-safe bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken, turning to coat evenly.
Marinate. Cover and refrigerate for 1–4 hours.
Cook the chicken. Remove chicken from the marinade, allowing the excess to drip off. Discard the used marinade. Grill, bake, or cook in a skillet until the thickest part reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Allow chicken to rest for 5 minutes before slicing to help retain its juices.
Recipe Notes
Serving Ideas: Perfect for chicken tacos, burrito bowls, Southwest salads, or lettuce wraps.
Flavor Variations: Add a pinch of cayenne or chopped jalapeño for extra heat.
Fresh Finish: Squeeze a little fresh lime juice over the cooked chicken and sprinkle with chopped cilantro just before serving.
