If you’re looking for a vibrant and delicious weeknight dinner that comes together in under 30 minutes, look no further than Cilantro Lime Skillet Chicken. This dish combines tender, juicy chicken breasts with a zesty cilantro-lime sauce that brings a burst of freshness to your dinner table. Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting friends, this recipe is sure to impress.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make Cilantro Lime Skillet Chicken, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lime, juiced and zested
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Lime wedges and extra cilantro for garnish
Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by seasoning both sides of the Cilantro Lime Skillet chicken breasts with salt and pepper. This basic seasoning is essential to enhance the chicken’s natural flavor.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the Cilantro Lime Skillet chicken breasts to the skillet. Sear the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
Step 3: Create the Sauce
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant—be careful not to burn it. Next, add the lime juice, lime zest, chicken broth, cumin, paprika, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir to combine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. These bits add incredible flavor to the sauce.
Step 4: Combine and Simmer
Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning some of the sauce over them. Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. This will also help keep the chicken moist and juicy.
Step 5: Finish with Cilantro
Just before serving, sprinkle the chopped cilantro over the chicken and sauce. This adds a fresh, herbal note that elevates the entire dish. If you love cilantro, feel free to add more!
Serving Suggestions
Cilantro Lime Skillet Chicken is incredibly versatile and can be served with a variety of sides. Here are some ideas:
- Rice or Quinoa: Serve the chicken over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Vegetables: Sautéed or roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus pair perfectly with this dish.
- Salad: A fresh garden salad with a light vinaigrette can balance the richness of the chicken.
- Tacos or Burritos: Shred the chicken and use it as a filling for tacos or burritos, topped with avocado, salsa, and more cilantro.
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers (though it’s hard to imagine with such a tasty dish), you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of Cilantro Lime Skillet chicken broth if needed to keep the chicken moist.
Conclusion
Cilantro Lime Skillet Chicken is not only quick and easy to prepare, but it also packs a punch of flavor that will leave your taste buds dancing. With its zesty lime and fresh cilantro, this dish is perfect for any occasion, from busy weeknights to casual dinner parties. Try it once, and it might just become a staple in your meal rotation. Enjoy the vibrant flavors and the ease of cooking in just one skillet!