Cilantro-Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa

Lightly charred, tender grilled Cilantro-Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa is a fantastic dish that combines zesty flavors with fresh ingredients. Perfect for summer barbecues, family gatherings, or a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe will surely impress anyone at the table. With its vibrant toppings and juicy chicken, it’s an easy way to elevate your meal while keeping it healthy and delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bright flavors: The combination of cilantro and lime creates a refreshing flavor profile that invigorates the palate.
• Quick preparation: This dish can be ready in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings.
• Versatile serving options: Enjoy it on its own, in tacos, or over a bed of greens for a satisfying meal.
• Healthy ingredients: Packed with protein and healthy fats from the avocado, this recipe fits well into various healthy eating plans.
• Easy grilling: The simplicity of grilling chicken makes this recipe accessible for cooks of all skill levels.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth, gather these essential tools before you start.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: This tool is essential for achieving those beautiful char marks and smoky flavor on the chicken.
• Mixing bowl: A good mixing bowl ensures that you can thoroughly combine your marinade and salsa ingredients without any mess.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade

• 4 (6 oz) boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 1 Tbsp lime zest
• 1/3 cup fresh lime juice
• 1/4 cup olive oil (plus more for brushing grill)
• 1 1/2 tsp honey
• 1/3 cup chopped cilantro (plus more for serving)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper

For the Avocado Salsa

• 1 1/2 medium avocados (ripe but semi-firm, diced)
• 2 medium Roma tomatoes (chopped)
• 1/2 cup chopped red onion (rinsed under cool water to remove harsh bite)
• 1 clove garlic (minced)
• 1 Tbsp fresh lime juice

How to Make Cilantro-Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

• In a mixing bowl, combine lime zest, lime juice, olive oil, honey, chopped cilantro, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper.
• Whisk until well blended.
• Add the chicken breasts to the marinade. Ensure they are fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes.

Step 2: Grill the Chicken

• Preheat your grill over medium-high heat. Brush grates with olive oil to prevent sticking.
• Remove chicken from marinade and let excess liquid drip off.
• Place chicken on the grill. Cook for about 5–7 minutes per side or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
• Once cooked through, remove from heat and let rest for a few minutes.

Step 3: Make the Avocado Salsa

• In another mixing bowl, combine diced avocados, chopped Roma tomatoes, rinsed red onion, minced garlic, and fresh lime juice.
• Gently toss to combine without mashing the avocados.

Step 4: Serve

• Slice the grilled cilantro-lime chicken and top each piece generously with avocado salsa.
• Garnish with additional cilantro if desired. Enjoy your flavorful meal!

How to Serve Cilantro-Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa

Cilantro-Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa is a vibrant and flavorful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want a light meal or something heartier, these serving suggestions will enhance your dining experience.

Fresh Salad

• A mixed greens salad adds a refreshing crunch and balances the flavors of the chicken and salsa.

Tacos

• Serve the chicken in warm corn tortillas topped with avocado salsa for a delicious taco night.

Rice Bowl

• Create a rice bowl using cilantro-lime chicken, brown rice, and additional veggies for a filling meal.

Quinoa Salad

• Pair the chicken with quinoa mixed with vegetables for a protein-packed, nutritious option.

Wraps

• Roll up the chicken and avocado salsa in a whole wheat wrap for an easy lunch or picnic option.

How to Perfect Cilantro-Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa

To make sure your cilantro-lime chicken comes out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Marinate for Flavor: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes. This enhances the flavor and tenderness of the meat.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh lime juice and herbs make a significant difference in taste. Always opt for fresh over bottled when possible.
• Control the Heat: Preheat your grill or skillet to medium-high heat. This helps achieve that perfect char without overcooking the chicken.
• Check Internal Temperature: Ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption while remaining juicy.
• Let it Rest: After cooking, let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. This helps keep it moist.

Best Side Dishes for Cilantro-Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa

Pairing side dishes with your cilantro-lime chicken can elevate your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Mexican Street Corn Salad
   A creamy and spicy corn salad that complements the flavors of lime beautifully.
2. Black Bean Salsa
   A hearty mix of black beans, corn, tomatoes, and spices adds protein and texture to your meal.
3. Cilantro Lime Rice
   Fluffy white or brown rice tossed with lime juice and chopped cilantro makes for a fragrant side dish.
4. Grilled Vegetables
   Seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus grilled to perfection add color and nutrition.
5. Chips and Guacamole
   Crunchy tortilla chips served with freshly made guacamole are always a crowd-pleaser.
6. Roasted Sweet Potatoes
   The sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes balances well against the tangy flavors of the chicken dish.
7. Cucumber Salad
   A light cucumber salad dressed with lime juice offers a refreshing contrast to the grilled flavors.
8. Sautéed Spinach
   Quick sautéed spinach with garlic is not only healthy but also complements the overall meal nicely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make your Cilantro-Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa even more delicious.

• Skipping the Marinade: Not allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes can result in less flavor. Make sure to let it soak up those zesty flavors for better taste.
• Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking the chicken for too long can dry it out. Use a meat thermometer to check that it reaches 165°F (75°C) for juicy results.
• Using Unripe Avocados: If your avocados are too hard, they won’t mash well for the salsa. Choose ripe but firm avocados for the best texture and flavor.
• Neglecting Fresh Ingredients: Using stale herbs or overripe tomatoes can compromise your dish. Always opt for fresh cilantro and ripe tomatoes to enhance flavors.
• Ignoring Salt and Pepper: Skipping seasoning can lead to bland chicken. Don’t forget to generously season the chicken with salt and pepper before grilling.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover chicken and salsa in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Cilantro-Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa

• Wrap individual portions of chicken tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. Note that salsa is best fresh!

Reheating Cilantro-Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken on a baking sheet and cover with foil, heating until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate. Heat in short bursts, about 30 seconds each, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Use medium heat in a skillet. Add a splash of water or broth to keep it moist while reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Cilantro-Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa.

How do I make Cilantro-Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa spicier?

You can add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to both the marinade and the avocado salsa for an extra kick.

Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

Yes! This recipe works well with turkey or beef as alternative proteins.

How long does it take to prepare Cilantro-Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa?

The total time is approximately 20 minutes, including preparation and cooking time.

What can I serve with Cilantro-Lime Chicken?

This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, quinoa, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

Cilantro-Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa is a vibrant dish full of flavor and freshness. Its versatility allows you to customize ingredients based on your preferences. Whether you’re serving it at dinner or enjoying leftovers for lunch, this recipe is sure to impress!

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Cilantro-Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa

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• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 22 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Indulge in the vibrant flavors of Cilantro-Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa, a delightful dish perfect for any occasion. This recipe features tender, grilled chicken breasts marinated in a zesty cilantro-lime blend, complemented by a refreshing avocado salsa that adds a creamy texture and bursts of flavor. In just about 20 minutes, you can create a mouthwatering meal that’s not only healthy but also incredibly satisfying. Serve it on its own, in tacos, or as a topping over fresh greens—this dish is versatile enough to impress at summer barbecues or casual weeknight dinners.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 (6 oz) boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 1 Tbsp lime zest
• 1/3 cup fresh lime juice
• 1/4 cup olive oil (plus more for brushing grill)
• 1 1/2 tsp honey
• 1/3 cup chopped cilantro (plus more for serving)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 1 1/2 medium avocados (ripe but semi-firm, diced)
• 2 medium Roma tomatoes (chopped)
• 1/2 cup chopped red onion (rinsed under cool water to remove harsh bite)
• 1 clove garlic (minced)
• 1 Tbsp fresh lime juice

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Instructions

1. In a mixing bowl, combine lime zest, lime juice, olive oil, honey, chopped cilantro, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until well blended.
2. Add the chicken breasts to the marinade. Ensure they are fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes.
3. Preheat your grill over medium-high heat. Brush grates with olive oil to prevent sticking.
4. Remove chicken from marinade and let excess liquid drip off. Place chicken on the grill. Cook for about 5–7 minutes per side or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Once cooked through, remove from heat and let rest for a few minutes.
5. In another mixing bowl, combine diced avocados, chopped Roma tomatoes, rinsed red onion, minced garlic, and fresh lime juice. Gently toss to combine without mashing the avocados.
6. Slice the grilled cilantro-lime chicken and top each piece generously with avocado salsa. Garnish with additional cilantro if desired.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 7 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 chicken breast (170g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 150mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 17g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 32g
• Cholesterol: 80mg