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Cilantro Lime Baked Chicken Breast 1

Cilantro Lime Baked Chicken Breast

This Cilantro Lime Baked Chicken Breast is fresh and zesty with a touch of heat. A vibrant marinade locks in moisture, resulting in juicy chicken perfect for salads, tacos, or rice bowls.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Marinating Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Latin American, Mexican
Servings 4 servings
Calories 235 kcal

Equipment

  • Baking Dish
  • Food Processor
  • Meat thermometer

Ingredients
  

Chicken and Marinade

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts about 2 pounds
  • 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves packed
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 limes juiced and zested
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 jalapeño seeded and chopped, optional for spicy version
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp honey or agave nectar
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper adjust to taste

Instructions
 

  • Combine fresh cilantro, minced garlic, lime juice and zest, olive oil, jalapeño (if using), cumin, honey, salt, black pepper, and cayenne in a food processor. Pulse until smooth.
  • Place chicken breasts in a glass dish or zip-top bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated. For extra tenderness, gently score the thicker parts of the breasts before marinating.
  • Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes, though overnight refrigeration will amplify the flavor.
  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). If marinated overnight, remove the chicken from refrigeration, allowing it to come closer to room temperature for about 15 minutes.
  • Transfer the chicken and marinade to a baking dish. Cover with aluminum foil for the first 15 minutes of baking.
  • Remove the foil and continue baking for approximately 10-15 minutes more, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  • Allow the chicken to rest for 5-7 minutes before slicing. For presentation, slice against the grain and garnish with fresh cilantro sprigs and lime wedges.

Notes

For a dairy-free creaminess, add half an avocado to the marinade.
For a completely sugar-free version, replace honey with a small amount of orange juice.
This recipe can be converted to a slow cooker recipe (4 hours on low) for increased moisture retention.
Fresh herbs are essential - dried cilantro loses most of its flavor and isn't recommended as a substitute.

Nutrition

Calories: 235kcalCarbohydrates: 3gProtein: 35gFat: 9gSodium: 390mgFiber: 0.5gSugar: 1g
Keyword Chicken, Cilantro Lime Chicken, Baked Chicken, Healthy Chicken Recipe, Spicy Chicken
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