Lightly charred, tender grilled Cilantro-Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa is perfect for any occasion. This dish combines the zesty brightness of lime with the creamy texture of avocado, creating a refreshing meal that is sure to impress. Ideal for summer barbecues, weeknight dinners, or meal prep, this recipe brings a taste of Mexico to your kitchen while being easy to prepare and full of flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This dish takes only 20 minutes from start to finish, making it great for busy weeknights.
- Bold Flavors: The combination of cilantro and lime creates a vibrant flavor profile that elevates the chicken.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein and healthy fats from avocados, it makes for a nutritious meal option.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve it on its own, in tacos, or over a salad for different dining experiences.
- Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh herbs and ingredients ensures each bite is bursting with flavor.
Tools and Preparation
Before you begin whipping up this delicious dish, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Grill or grill pan
- Mixing bowls
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Grill or grill pan: Provides that perfect char and smoky flavor that enhances the chicken’s taste.
- Mixing bowls: Essential for combining marinades and salsa ingredients easily.
- Cutting board & knife: A sharp knife and clean cutting board make chopping ingredients quick and safe.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 4 (6 oz) boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 Tbsp lime zest
- 1/3 cup fresh lime juice
- 1/4 cup olive oil (plus more for brushing grill)
- 1 1/2 tsp honey
- 1/3 cup chopped cilantro (plus more for serving)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
For the Avocado Salsa
- 1 1/2 medium avocados (ripe but semi-firm, diced)
- 2 medium Roma tomatoes (chopped)
- 1/2 cup chopped red onion (rinsed under cool water to remove harsh bite)
- 1 clove garlic (minced)
- 1 Tbsp fresh lime juice
How to Make Cilantro-Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
In a mixing bowl, combine lime zest, lime juice, olive oil, honey, chopped cilantro, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Whisk until well blended.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts in a resealable bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over them. Seal or cover the container and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to absorb flavors.
Step 3: Prepare the Avocado Salsa
In another bowl, gently mix diced avocados, chopped tomatoes, rinsed red onion, minced garlic, and lime juice. Season with salt to taste. Set aside while you cook the chicken.
Step 4: Grill the Chicken
Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Brush with a little olive oil. Remove the chicken from marinade and place it on the grill. Cook for about 5 minutes on each side or until fully cooked through.
Step 5: Serve
Once grilled to perfection, slice the chicken if desired. Top generously with avocado salsa before serving. Enjoy your flavorful Cilantro-Lime Chicken!
How to Serve Cilantro-Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa
Cilantro-lime chicken with avocado salsa is a vibrant and delicious dish that can be served in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a family meal, these serving suggestions will enhance your dining experience.
Tacos
- Use warm corn or flour tortillas to wrap the grilled chicken and top with avocado salsa for a fresh and fun meal.
Salad
- Slice the cilantro-lime chicken and serve it over a bed of mixed greens, drizzled with more lime juice for added brightness.
Rice Bowl
- Place the chicken on a generous serving of cilantro-lime rice, topping it off with avocado salsa for a hearty bowl.
Grilled Veggies
- Pair the dish with grilled vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini to add color and texture to your plate.
How to Perfect Cilantro-Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa
To achieve the best flavor and texture in your cilantro-lime chicken, follow these helpful tips.
- Marinate longer: Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes will enhance its flavor significantly.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh lime juice, ripe avocados, and fresh herbs make all the difference in taste.
- Monitor grill temperature: Ensure your grill is hot before adding the chicken to achieve perfect char marks and keep the meat juicy.
- Let it rest: After grilling, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. This helps retain moisture.
Best Side Dishes for Cilantro-Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa
Complement your cilantro-lime chicken with these delicious side dishes that add variety and balance to your meal.
Mexican Street Corn
Grilled corn on the cob topped with cotija cheese, lime, and chili powder for a flavorful addition.Quinoa Salad
A light salad featuring quinoa, black beans, diced peppers, and a zesty lime dressing that pairs well with chicken.Guacamole
Creamy avocado dip seasoned with lime, garlic, and cilantro; perfect for scooping alongside your main dish.Black Bean Soup
A hearty soup made from black beans and spices that adds depth while complementing the bright flavors of the chicken.Cilantro-Lime Rice
Fluffy rice cooked with fresh cilantro and lime zest to echo the flavors in your main dish.Chips and Salsa
Crispy tortilla chips served with fresh tomato salsa provide an excellent crunchy contrast.Roasted Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes roasted until caramelized add sweetness that balances out the zesty flavors of the meal.Zucchini Noodles
Lightly sautéed zucchini noodles tossed in olive oil make for a low-carb option that’s refreshing alongside grilled chicken.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Grilling cilantro-lime chicken may seem simple, but there are common pitfalls that can impact the final dish. Here are some mistakes to watch for:
Skipping marination time: Not allowing the chicken to marinate long enough can result in bland flavor. Aim for at least 30 minutes for optimal taste.
Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken too long will dry it out. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F.
Not prepping ingredients in advance: Failing to have your ingredients ready can lead to rushed cooking. Prepare all items before starting to grill.
Ignoring resting time: Cutting into the chicken right after cooking can cause juices to escape. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Not balancing flavors in avocado salsa: Over or under-seasoning the salsa can detract from its freshness. Taste and adjust lime juice, salt, and garlic as needed.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover cilantro-lime chicken and avocado salsa in airtight containers.
- It will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Cilantro-Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa
- You can freeze cooked cilantro-lime chicken for up to 3 months.
- Avoid freezing the avocado salsa, as it does not freeze well.
Reheating Cilantro-Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F; cover chicken with foil and heat for about 15-20 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals until heated through, about 2-3 minutes.
- Stovetop: Warm on medium heat in a pan with a splash of water or broth until warmed, around 5-7 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making cilantro-lime chicken with avocado salsa:
What is the best way to marinate cilantro-lime chicken?
Marinate the chicken in lime juice, zest, olive oil, honey, and chopped cilantro for at least 30 minutes. This allows flavors to penetrate deeply.
Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?
Yes! This recipe works well with turkey or even beef if you’re looking for alternatives.
How do I customize the avocado salsa?
Feel free to add diced jalapeños for heat or corn for sweetness. Adjust lime juice and salt based on your taste preferences.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! Cilantro-lime chicken holds up well in meal prep containers and makes easy lunches throughout the week.
Can I grill this on a stovetop grill pan?
Yes! A stovetop grill pan is perfect if you don’t have an outdoor grill. Just preheat it well before adding the chicken.
Final Thoughts
Cilantro-Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. The zesty flavors of lime paired with creamy avocado make it a standout dish perfect for any occasion. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite ingredients or adjust spice levels to suit your taste!
Cilantro-Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of Cilantro-Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa, a dish designed to impress with its freshness and bold taste. Perfect for summer barbecues or quick weeknight dinners, this meal combines lightly charred chicken breasts marinated in zesty lime and fresh cilantro, topped with creamy avocado salsa. Each bite is a delightful mix of tangy and savory, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a nutritious yet satisfying option. Quick to prepare and packed with protein, this recipe brings a taste of Mexico right to your kitchen. Serve it solo, in tacos, or over a fresh salad for versatile dining experiences that are sure to please any crowd.
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients
- 4 (6 oz) boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 Tbsp lime zest
- 1/3 cup fresh lime juice
- 1/4 cup olive oil (plus more for brushing grill)
- 1 1/2 tsp honey
- 1/3 cup chopped cilantro (plus more for serving)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 1 1/2 medium avocados (ripe but semi-firm, diced)
- 2 medium Roma tomatoes (chopped)
- 1/2 cup chopped red onion (rinsed under cool water to remove harsh bite)
- 1 clove garlic (minced)
- 1 Tbsp fresh lime juice
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together lime zest, lime juice, olive oil, honey, chopped cilantro, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Place chicken breasts in a resealable bag or shallow dish; pour marinade over them and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes.
- Meanwhile, prepare the avocado salsa by gently mixing diced avocados, chopped tomatoes, rinsed red onion, minced garlic, and fresh lime juice in another bowl. Season with salt to taste.
- Preheat grill or grill pan over medium-high heat; brush with olive oil. Grill chicken for about 5 minutes on each side or until cooked through.
- Slice grilled chicken if desired; top generously with avocado salsa before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 grilled chicken breast (170g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 240mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg