Cilantro Lime Chicken
This dish involves marinating chicken with fresh herbs, citrus juice, and spices before pan-searing it to a golden brown finish. The chicken develops a juicy interior with a slightly crispy exterior, complemented by vibrant flavors from cilantro and lime that brighten each bite.
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Skillet or frying pan
- Tongs
Ingredients
- 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup fresh chopped cilantro
- 2 tablespoons lime juice freshly squeezed
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Place the chicken breasts in a mixing bowl and pour over the lime juice. Add the minced garlic, chopped cilantro, ground cumin, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together until the chicken is evenly coated and marinated for at least 10 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering and starting to ripple, which indicates it’s hot enough for searing.
- Carefully place the marinated chicken breasts into the hot skillet, laying them away from you to avoid splatters. Let them sear undisturbed for about 4-5 minutes, until the underside develops a golden brown crust.
- Flip the chicken breasts using tongs or a spatula and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). They should be juicy with a nicely browned exterior.
- Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and transfer to a plate. Let it rest for a few minutes to allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in tender, moist meat.
- Slice the chicken if desired, then sprinkle with additional chopped cilantro and a squeeze of fresh lime for extra brightness before serving.