Best Cilantro Lime Chicken Marinade (Grill or Stovetop!)

Grilled cilantro lime chicken thighs sliced on a platter with fresh lime wedges

Best Cilantro Lime Chicken Marinade (Grill or Stovetop!)

Need a shortcut to juicy grilled chicken bursting with fresh citrus flavor? This cilantro lime chicken marinade hits all the high notes in half an hour. Bright lime zest, earthy cilantro, and a splash of honey work together to tenderize every bite. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or firing up the grill for taco night, this cilantro lime chicken recipe turns plain chicken into a crowd-pleasing dinner without extra fuss.

Prep Time5

Cook Time10

Marinating Time1

Total Time1 15

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American, Mexican

Keyword: cilantro lime chicken marinade

Servings: servings

Ingredients

1/2 cup cilantro chopped
Zest of 1 lime
1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
3 tbsp olive oil
2 garlic cloves minced
2 tsp honey
2 tsp chili powder
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp sea salt
1/2 tsp ground black pepper
1½-2 lb skinless boneless chicken thighs or breasts

Instructions

Add all ingredients, except chicken, in a large bowl or a resealable bag. Stir to combine. If you want, reserve 2 tbsp of the marinade to drizzle over the cooked chicken later.
1/2 cup cilantro, Zest of 1 lime, 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice, 3 tbsp olive oil, 2 garlic cloves, 2 tsp honey, 2 tsp chili powder, 1 tsp cumin, 1 tsp sea salt, 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
Add the chicken and toss to coat evenly. Marinate in the fridge for 30 minutes - 1 hour.
1½-2 lb skinless boneless chicken thighs
When ready to cook, remove the chicken from the marinade but save the marinade.
Heat the grill or a grill pan over medium high heat (add 1 tbsp of oil if cooking in a pan). Cook the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side, brushing with the marinade 1-2 times while cooking. The chicken should reach 165 degrees F.
Remove from heat and rest for 5 minutes before serving. Drizzle with the reserved marinade from step 1, if using.

Video

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.

Nutrition