Garlic Lime Chicken Breasts
Infused with zesty lime juice, aromatic garlic, and a vibrant blend of spices, these Garlic Lime Chicken Breasts are a quick and flavorful meal that brings a burst of citrusy goodness to your plate. Perfectly marinated to ensure juiciness and pan-seared to golden perfection, this recipe strikes the ideal balance of tangy, smoky, and savory. The optional chili powder adds a touch of heat for spice lovers, while the fresh cilantro garnish elevates each bite with a hint of freshness. Ready in just 30 minutes of active prep and cooking time, this versatile dish pairs beautifully with rice, roasted vegetables, or a crisp salad, making it an easy go-to for weeknight dinners or casual entertaining.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 1 teaspoon lime zest
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 0.5 teaspoon chili powder (optional for heat)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons cilantro, chopped (optional for garnish)
Instructions
Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper and pound them to an even thickness, about 1/2 inch thick. This ensures even cooking.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the lime juice, lime zest, olive oil, minced garlic, ground cumin, paprika, chili powder (if using), salt, and black pepper.
Place the chicken breasts in a large resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are coated generously. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for 30 minutes to 2 hours for maximum flavor.
Preheat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Lightly grease the skillet with a drizzle of olive oil if needed.
Remove the chicken breasts from the marinade, letting any excess drip off, and discard the remaining marinade.
Cook the chicken breasts in the skillet for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Avoid overcrowding the pan; cook in batches if necessary.
Once cooked, transfer the chicken breasts to a clean plate and let them rest for 5 minutes to retain their juices.
Garnish with chopped cilantro if desired, and serve immediately with your favorite side dishes, such as rice, roasted vegetables, or a crisp salad.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
362 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 13.3 g | 17% | |
| Saturated Fat | 2.8 g | 14% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 148 mg | 49% | |
| Sodium | 617 mg | 27% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 3.6 g | 1% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 0.6 g | 2% | |
| Total Sugars | 0.4 g | ||
| Protein | 54.5 g | 109% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 43 mg | 3% | |
| Iron | 2.4 mg | 13% | |
| Potassium | 530 mg | 11% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
