Cilantro-Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa

Lightly charred, tender grilled Cilantro-Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa is a delightful dish perfect for summer barbecues or weeknight dinners. The vibrant lime-infused avocado salsa adds a refreshing twist that complements the juicy chicken beautifully. With simple ingredients and quick cooking time, this dish is suitable for any occasion, from casual family meals to festive gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish can be ready in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of cilantro, lime, and garlic creates a zesty marinade that elevates the chicken.
• Healthy Choice: Packed with lean protein and healthy fats from the avocado, it’s nutritious and satisfying.
• Customizable: Feel free to adjust the spice level or add your favorite toppings to the salsa.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This chicken keeps well in the fridge and tastes even better the next day!

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience seamless, gather these essential tools before you start. Having everything ready will help you focus on creating this delicious meal.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill or grill pan
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill or grill pan: Essential for achieving that delightful char on the chicken, enhancing its flavor.
• Mixing bowl: Important for combining marinade ingredients, ensuring even coverage on the chicken.
• Sharp knife: Aids in easily chopping vegetables, saving time during preparation.

Ingredients

Lightly charred, tender grilled cilantro lime chicken breasts topped with the most refreshing and bright, lime-infused avocado salsa!

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, fresh lime juice, olive oil, honey, chopped cilantro, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Whisk until well blended.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Place chicken breasts in a shallow dish or zip-top bag. Pour marinade over the chicken ensuring each piece is coated. Let marinate in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes.

Step 3: Grill the Chicken

Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Brush with olive oil to prevent sticking. Remove chicken from marinade and place on hot grill. Cook for about 5-7 minutes per side or until internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Step 4: Make Avocado Salsa

In a separate bowl, mix diced avocados, chopped Roma tomatoes, rinsed red onion, minced garlic, and fresh lime juice. Gently stir to combine without mashing the avocados.

Step 5: Serve

Once chicken is cooked through, remove it from the grill. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Top each breast with a generous scoop of avocado salsa and serve immediately!

How to Serve Cilantro-Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa

Cilantro-lime chicken with avocado salsa is not only delicious but also versatile. You can serve it in various ways to enhance its flavors and presentation.

Tacos

• Use soft corn tortillas to create fresh tacos. Add the cilantro-lime chicken and top with avocado salsa for a zesty bite.

Salad

• Slice the grilled chicken and toss it on a bed of mixed greens. Drizzle lime vinaigrette over the top for added flavor.

Rice Bowl

• Serve the chicken over a bowl of fluffy rice, topped with avocado salsa, black beans, and a sprinkle of cheese for a hearty meal.

Sandwiches

• Layer sliced cilantro-lime chicken and avocado salsa between crusty bread or in a wrap for a tasty lunch option.

How to Perfect Cilantro-Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa

To ensure your cilantro-lime chicken turns out perfectly every time, follow these handy tips.

• Marinate well: Let the chicken marinate in the lime juice mixture for at least 30 minutes before grilling. This enhances flavor and tenderness.

• Preheat your grill: Ensure your grill is hot before placing the chicken on it. This helps achieve those beautiful char marks and keeps the meat juicy.

• Use a meat thermometer: Cook the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption without drying it out.

• Let it rest: After grilling, let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. This allows juices to redistribute, keeping the meat moist.

Best Side Dishes for Cilantro-Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa

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

1. Mexican Street Corn
   Grilled corn on the cob slathered in lime mayo, topped with cheese and chili powder enhances the flavors of your dish.

2. Black Beans
   A simple side of seasoned black beans adds protein and complements the lime notes beautifully.

3. Quinoa Salad
   A light quinoa salad mixed with bell peppers, corn, and cilantro provides a nutritious addition that balances your plate.

4. Grilled Vegetables
   Seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and onions grilled to perfection add vibrant color and flavor to your meal.

5. Cilantro Rice
   Fluffy rice tossed with chopped cilantro and lime zest makes for a fragrant side that pairs wonderfully with your main dish.

6. Chips and Guacamole
   Crisp tortilla chips served alongside creamy guacamole offer a crunchy contrast to the tender chicken and fresh salsa.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common pitfalls can make your cooking experience more enjoyable and successful. Here are some mistakes to look out for:

• Skipping the marinating step: Marinating the chicken is crucial for flavor. Allow at least 30 minutes for the cilantro-lime marinade to soak in.
• Overcooking the chicken: Overcooked chicken can become dry. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
• Ignoring seasoning: Neglecting to season the chicken properly can lead to bland flavors. Don’t skip the salt and pepper; they enhance the dish significantly.
• Not preparing salsa in advance: Fresh avocado salsa benefits from sitting for a bit. Prepare it while the chicken is grilling for optimal flavor.
• Using unripe avocados: Unripe avocados won’t blend well into salsa. Choose ripe but firm avocados for the best texture and taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover cilantro-lime chicken in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Cilantro-Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa

• Wrap the grilled chicken tightly in plastic wrap before placing it in a freezer-safe bag.
• Frozen cilantro-lime chicken can last for up to 3 months.

Reheating Cilantro-Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and cover the chicken with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe plate, cover loosely, and heat on medium power for about 2-3 minutes, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Place chicken in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth. Cover and cook until heated, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

How can I customize my Cilantro-Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa?

You can add ingredients like jalapeños for spice or corn for sweetness. Feel free to adjust based on your preferences!

What should I serve with Cilantro-Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa?

This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, quinoa, or a fresh green salad. You can also serve it in tacos or wraps.

Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

Yes! This recipe works beautifully with shrimp or fish as alternatives, maintaining that vibrant flavor profile.

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

The total time is approximately 20 minutes, making it perfect for a quick weeknight meal.

Final Thoughts

Cilantro-Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa is not just delicious; it’s also versatile and customizable. You can adapt it according to your taste by switching up salsas or sides. Try this recipe today, and enjoy its fresh flavors!