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Lime Marinated Grilled Chicken Recipe

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4.7 from 104 reviews

This Lime Marinated Grilled Chicken recipe features tender, juicy chicken breasts or thighs marinated overnight in a zesty lime and garlic marinade with hints of sweetness and umami. The chicken can be cooked on the stovetop, grill, or in the oven to achieve a flavorful caramelized exterior. This versatile dish is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or weekend barbecue, served with fresh cilantro and lime wedges for a bright finish.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 600–750g / 1.2 – 1.5 lb chicken breasts (4 pieces) or boneless thigh (see note 1)

Marinade

  • Zest of 1 lime (zest before juicing)
  • 4 tbsp lime juice (from 1 – 2 limes)
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 3 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp finely chopped cilantro/coriander (optional)
  • 1 tbsp fish sauce or 2 tbsp soy sauce (see note 2)

For Cooking

  • 1 – 2 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)

Instructions

  1. Pound the chicken: Use your fist or a rolling pin to gently pound the thick end of each chicken breast to about 1.7 cm (2/3″) thickness. This step is unnecessary if using boneless thighs.
  2. Marinate the chicken: Place the chicken pieces in a ziplock bag with the marinade ingredients. Massage the bag to evenly coat the chicken with the marinade. Seal and refrigerate for at least 12 hours, preferably 24 hours, but no more than 48 hours for best flavor and texture.
  3. Prepare to cook: Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the marinade. Pat the chicken dry slightly to prevent excess moisture during cooking.
  4. Cooking options: Choose one method:
    – Stovetop: Heat 1-2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for about 3 minutes per side, or until caramelized and golden brown.
    – BBQ/Grill: Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Brush the grill grates with oil. Grill chicken for 3 minutes per side until caramelized.
    – Oven: Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Bake chicken for 15 minutes, then switch to broiler/grill mode on high and cook an additional 3 minutes to caramelize the surface.
  5. Rest the chicken: Transfer the cooked chicken to a serving plate and loosely cover with foil. Allow it to rest for 3 minutes to let the juices redistribute.
  6. Garnish and serve: Garnish with extra chopped cilantro/coriander, lime wedges, and chili if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

  • Note 1: Pounding chicken breasts ensures even cooking and tenderness but is unnecessary if using boneless thighs which tend to be more uniform in thickness.
  • Note 2: Fish sauce adds authentic umami flavor; soy sauce is a mild vegetarian alternative.
  • Note 3: Marinating for a minimum of 12 hours is recommended for flavor absorption. Do not marinate beyond 48 hours to avoid chicken texture becoming mushy.

Keywords: lime marinated chicken, grilled chicken, chicken breasts, easy chicken recipe, backyard barbecue, lime garlic chicken

Find it online: https://flavorsbymaya.com/lime-marinated-grilled-chicken-recipe/