Lime Marinated Grilled Chicken Recipe

Introduction

This lime marinated grilled chicken is bursting with fresh citrus flavors and a hint of sweetness. Perfectly tender and caramelized, it’s a simple yet delicious dish that’s great for weeknight dinners or weekend barbecues.

Ingredients

• 600-750g (1.2 – 1.5 lb) chicken breasts (4 pieces) or boneless thighs
• Zest of 1 lime
• 4 tbsp lime juice (from 1-2 limes)
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 3 tbsp brown sugar
• 1/4 tsp pepper
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp finely chopped cilantro/coriander (optional)
• 1 tbsp fish sauce or 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1-2 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)

Instructions

1. Step 1: If using chicken breasts, gently pound the thickest end with a fist or rolling pin to about 1.7 cm (2/3 inch) thickness. Thighs do not require pounding.
2. Step 2: Combine lime zest, lime juice, garlic, brown sugar, pepper, olive oil, cilantro (if using), and fish sauce or soy sauce to make the marinade.
3. Step 3: Place chicken and marinade into a ziplock bag, seal, and massage to coat evenly. Refrigerate for at least 12 hours and up to 48 hours.
4. Step 4: Remove chicken from marinade and discard the marinade. Prepare to cook using your preferred method below.
5. Step 5: To cook on the stove: Heat 1-2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 3 minutes per side until caramelized and golden brown.
6. Step 6: To cook on the grill: Brush grill grates with oil and heat to medium-high (or medium if your grill runs hot). Grill chicken for 3 minutes on each side until caramelized.
7. Step 7: To cook in the oven: Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Bake chicken for 15 minutes, then switch to broiler/grill on high and broil for 3 minutes until the surface caramelizes and chicken is cooked through.
8. Step 8: Transfer chicken to a serving plate, loosely cover with foil, and let rest for 3 minutes.
9. Step 9: Garnish with extra cilantro, lime wedges, and chili if desired, then serve and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

• For added heat, include a pinch of chili flakes in the marinade.
• Use fish sauce for authentic umami flavor or soy sauce for a milder taste.
• Marinate for longer (up to 48 hours) to deepen the lime flavor and tenderize the meat further.
• Serve with a fresh side salad or steamed rice for a complete meal.

Storage

Store leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave to avoid drying out the meat.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other cuts of chicken for this recipe?

Yes, boneless thighs or even drumsticks can be used. Adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

What if I don’t have fresh limes?

Fresh lime juice and zest provide the best flavor, but in a pinch, bottled lime juice can be used. Avoid pre-sweetened lime juice to keep the balance of flavors.

Lime Marinated Grilled Chicken Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 60 reviews

• Author: Jack
• Total Time: 24 hours 20 minutes (including marinating)
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

This Lime Marinated Grilled Chicken recipe offers tender, juicy chicken breasts or thighs infused with zesty lime, garlic, and a hint of sweetness from brown sugar. The marinade also includes aromatic cilantro and a savory touch of fish sauce or soy sauce, delivering a vibrant and flavorful dish perfect for grilling, stovetop cooking, or oven baking. Ideal for meal prep or a fresh, summery dinner, this recipe requires marinating for maximum flavor and results in beautifully caramelized chicken with a bright citrus finish.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Chicken

• 600–750g (1.2 – 1.5 lb) chicken breasts (4 pieces) or boneless thighs

Marinade

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

For Cooking

• 1 – 2 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)

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Instructions

1. Pound the Chicken: Use your fist or a rolling pin to gently pound the thick end of each chicken breast to an even thickness of about 1.7 cm (2/3 inch). This helps the chicken cook evenly and tenderizes it. If using boneless thighs, this step is not necessary.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken in a ziplock bag with the prepared marinade (lime zest, lime juice, minced garlic, brown sugar, pepper, olive oil, chopped cilantro, and fish sauce or soy sauce). Massage the marinade into the chicken thoroughly to coat evenly. Place the bag on a plate or in a bowl and refrigerate for at least 12 hours, ideally 24 hours, but no longer than 48 hours for best flavor and texture.
3. Prepare for Cooking: Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the leftover liquid. Pat the chicken lightly if desired to remove excess moisture before cooking.
4. Cook on Stovetop: Heat 1 to 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts or thighs and cook for 3 minutes on each side until golden brown and caramelized. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) to ensure doneness.
5. Grill (BBQ) Option: Brush the grill grates with oil and preheat to medium-high heat (use medium heat if your grill runs hot). Grill the chicken for 3 minutes per side until nicely caramelized and cooked through.
6. Oven Baking Option: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place the chicken on a baking sheet and bake for 15 minutes. Then switch the oven to broil/grill mode on high and cook for an additional 3 minutes to caramelize the surface and finish cooking the chicken.
7. Rest the Chicken: Transfer the cooked chicken onto a serving plate. Loosely cover with foil and let it rest for 3 minutes to allow juices to redistribute, ensuring juicy and tender meat.
8. Serve: Garnish with extra chopped cilantro/coriander, lime wedges, and optional chili for heat. Serve immediately and enjoy your flavorful lime marinated grilled chicken!

Notes

• Note 1: Using boneless thighs is optional and does not require pounding because they have more even thickness.
• Note 2: Fish sauce gives a deeper umami flavor, while soy sauce works as a great vegetarian-friendly alternative.
• Note 3: Marinating time is flexible but ideally between 12 to 24 hours for optimal flavor penetration. Avoid exceeding 48 hours to prevent the chicken from becoming mushy.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: Fusion

Keywords: lime marinated chicken, grilled chicken, easy chicken recipe, summer chicken, cilantro chicken, citrus marinade, boneless chicken breast, boneless chicken thigh