In the mood for something zesty? Try Garlic Lime Chicken, a 30-minute recipe bursting with lime and garlic goodness.
I love recipes that can easily be adjusted to suit the number of servings you’d like to make. You can make this recipe for one, or make the full recipe and save the leftovers.
This quick recipe uses a five-minute garlic, ground coriander and lime juice marinade for the chicken and provides time for you to whip up the chunky avocado salsa while the chicken cooks on the stove.
If you’re really feeling ambitious, start the whole thing off with a pot of rice (here’s my no-fail rice method) and then use any leftovers to make Paradise Fried Rice later in the week.
Table of Contents
Reasons to Love This Garlic and Lime Chicken
- This Garlic and Lime Chicken recipe is quick and easy, perfect for busy weeknights.
- It’s a versatile dish, great for meal prepping and leftovers.
- Garlic Lime Chicken provides a refreshing change from typical chicken recipes.
Recipe Ingredients
- Garlic Powder: It enhances the dish with a bold, earthy flavor that balances the bright acidity of lime, creating a savory and zesty taste.
- Ground Coriander: It adds subtle complexity and depth to the chicken with its warm and citrusy flavor.
- Lime Juice: Bright, tangy, and refreshing, it infuses the chicken with a vibrant flavor.
- Avocado: Creamy and rich, avocado balances the tanginess of the lime with a smooth, buttery texture in the salsa.
See the recipe card for full information on ingredients and quantities.
Variations
- Herbs and Spice Twist: For an aromatic twist, enhance your marinade with a teaspoon of smoked paprika, a pinch of cayenne pepper, and a sprinkle of dried thyme. This spice mixture can also be complemented with freshly chopped parsley and cilantro for fresh, herbaceous notes.
- Worcestershire Sauce Addition: Add a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce to the marinade for an extra depth of umami flavor.
How to Make Garlic Lime Chicken
Step #1: Combine the coriander, lime juice, olive oil, salt, and garlic powder in a large zipper-close bag. Add the thin chicken breast pieces and allow them to marinate for 5 minutes.
Step #2: Meanwhile, heat a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Discard the marinade and place three of the chicken pieces into the preheated pan. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the cooked chicken and set aside. Repeat with the remaining three pieces of chicken.
Step #3: While the chicken is cooking, prepare the salsa by combining the tomatoes, onion, lime juice, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Use a wooden spoon to gently fold in the diced avocado. Arrange the cooked chicken pieces on a platter and top with the salsa. Serve hot.
Expert Tips
- Pound the Chicken: For even cooking, pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness before marinating. This ensures that the chicken cooks uniformly and remains juicy.
- Ensure Proper Cooking: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken. It should reach 165 degrees F (74°C) to ensure it is safely and thoroughly cooked.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, using a slow cooker is a great alternative. Add the chicken and all of the marinade into the slow cooker, then add enough water or chicken broth so that the chicken is covered by the liquid. Cook the chicken on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours for tender, flavorful results.
You can use bone-in, skinless chicken thighs for a richer flavor. Marinate as directed and adjust the cooking time to 6-8 minutes per side.
Storage Info
To store Garlic Lime Chicken, place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. You can freeze it for up to 2 months.
To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen, then warm in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, or microwave in 30-second intervals. For the salsa, store it separately and consume it within 2 days; it’s best enjoyed fresh.
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Garlic Lime Chicken Recipe
RECOMMENDED PRODUCTS
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 2 tablespoons ground coriander
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 3 large chicken breasts - sliced horizontally (parallel to the cutting board) into 2 thin pieces
For the Salsa
- 1 cup chopped tomato
- 2 tablespoons minced yellow or red onion
- 2 teaspoons lime juice
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 avocado - peeled and diced
Instructions
- Combine the coriander, lime juice, olive oil, salt, and garlic powder in a large zipper-close bag. Add the thin chicken breast pieces and allow them to marinate for 5 minutes.
- Meanwhile, heat a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Discard the marinade and place three of the chicken pieces into the preheated pan. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the cooked chicken and set aside. Repeat with the remaining three pieces of chicken.
- While the chicken is cooking, prepare the salsa by combining the tomatoes, onion, lime juice, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Use a wooden spoon to gently fold in the diced avocado. Arrange the cooked chicken pieces on a platter and top with the salsa. Serve hot.
NOTES
Nutrition
So creamy and full of flavor, the avocado salsa paired perfectly with the coriander chicken!