Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is a winner for so many reasons. The cilantro lime marinade tenderizes the chicken while infusing it with a fresh, tangy flavor. The avocado salsa adds a cool, creamy contrast that perfectly complements the citrusy chicken. It’s naturally gluten-free, low-carb, and packed with nutrients. Whether you’re meal prepping or entertaining guests, this dish is quick to make and delivers restaurant-quality results every time.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- Fresh cilantro
- Fresh lime juice
- Olive oil
- Garlic
- Ground cumin
- Salt and pepper
- Avocados
- Cherry tomatoes
- Red onion
- Jalapeño (optional)
- Fresh lime juice (for salsa)
- Fresh cilantro (for salsa)
Directions
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together chopped cilantro, lime juice, olive oil, minced garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper to create the marinade.
- Place the chicken in a resealable bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over it. Seal and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours.
- Preheat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat.
- Remove the chicken from the marinade and cook for 6–7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- While the chicken cooks, prepare the avocado salsa by combining diced avocados, halved cherry tomatoes, finely chopped red onion, minced jalapeño (if using), lime juice, and chopped cilantro. Toss gently.
- Once the chicken is cooked, let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- Serve the chicken topped with generous spoonfuls of avocado salsa.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4 people.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Marinate time: 30 minutes to 2 hours
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: Approximately 1 hour (including minimum marination)
Variations
- Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier result.
- Spice it up by adding chili flakes or extra jalapeño to the marinade or salsa.
- Try it with shrimp for a seafood version—just reduce the marinating time.
- Make it dairy-friendly by topping it with a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream.
- Serve it taco-style by slicing the chicken and wrapping it in tortillas.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover chicken and salsa separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat the chicken, use a skillet over medium heat or microwave until warmed through. Avoid reheating the avocado salsa—serve it fresh for best texture and flavor.
FAQs
How long should I marinate the chicken?
For best flavor, marinate for at least 30 minutes, but no more than 2 hours to prevent the lime juice from breaking down the chicken too much.
Can I cook the chicken in the oven?
Yes, you can bake the chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes or until it reaches 165°F internally.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely. Just store the salsa separately and add it fresh when serving.
Can I use dried cilantro instead of fresh?
Fresh cilantro is recommended for the best flavor, but you can use dried in a pinch—use about one-third the amount.
How spicy is the avocado salsa?
It’s mild unless you add jalapeño. You can control the heat level to your preference.
What sides go well with this dish?
Serve it with rice, quinoa, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.
Can I grill the chicken?
Yes, grilling adds a smoky flavor that pairs wonderfully with the lime and cilantro.
How do I keep the avocado from browning?
Add extra lime juice to the salsa and store it with plastic wrap pressed against the surface to limit air exposure.
Can I freeze the marinated chicken?
Yes, freeze the chicken in the marinade before cooking. Thaw in the fridge before cooking as directed.
Can I make the salsa ahead of time?
You can make it a few hours ahead, but for best texture and freshness, assemble it right before serving.
Conclusion
Cilantro Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa is a flavorful and refreshing meal that’s easy to prepare yet impressive enough for entertaining. Whether grilled or pan-seared, the zesty chicken combined with creamy avocado salsa delivers a delicious balance of flavors and textures. Perfect for a light dinner, summer cookout, or healthy meal prep—this dish is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
PrintCilantro Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa
This Cilantro Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa is a zesty, vibrant dish featuring marinated grilled or pan-seared chicken topped with a creamy, refreshing avocado salsa. It’s quick, healthy, and perfect for both casual dinners and entertaining.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling or Pan-Searing
- Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 ripe avocados, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1 jalapeño, minced (optional)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice (for salsa)
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped (for salsa)
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together chopped cilantro, lime juice, olive oil, minced garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper to create the marinade.
- Place the chicken in a resealable bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over it. Seal and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours.
- Preheat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat.
- Remove the chicken from the marinade and cook for 6–7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- While the chicken cooks, prepare the avocado salsa by combining diced avocados, halved cherry tomatoes, finely chopped red onion, minced jalapeño (if using), lime juice, and chopped cilantro. Toss gently.
- Once the chicken is cooked, let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- Serve the chicken topped with generous spoonfuls of avocado salsa.
Notes
- Marinate chicken for no more than 2 hours to avoid over-tenderizing.
- Grill or pan-sear the chicken for best flavor.
- Serve salsa fresh for best texture; don’t reheat it.
- For a spicier dish, increase the amount of jalapeño or add chili flakes.
- Make it into tacos by slicing the chicken and serving in tortillas.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with salsa
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 410mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 19g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
