Cilantro-Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa

Lightly charred, tender grilled cilantro-lime chicken breasts topped with refreshing lime-infused avocado salsa make for a delightful meal. This Cilantro-Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa is perfect for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to festive gatherings. The bright flavors and vibrant colors not only please the palate but also create a stunning presentation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep and 10 minutes of cooking, you can have a delicious meal on the table in no time.
• Fresh Ingredients: The use of fresh lime juice, cilantro, and ripe avocados brings a burst of flavor that elevates this dish.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a main dish or serve it over greens for a healthy salad option.
• Healthy Choice: Packed with protein and healthy fats, this recipe fits well into various dietary plans.
• Family-Friendly: Its mild flavor profile makes it appealing to both kids and adults alike.

Tools and Preparation

To make this cilantro-lime chicken with avocado salsa, having the right tools will streamline your cooking process. Here are some essential items you’ll need.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill or grill pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill or grill pan: Essential for achieving that perfect char on the chicken, giving it a smoky flavor.
• Mixing bowls: Necessary for combining ingredients like marinades and salsa without making a mess.
• Knife: A good knife ensures precise cutting of vegetables and meats, which is key for presentation.

Ingredients

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

For the Chicken

• 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 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

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Cilantro-Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Combine lime zest, lime juice, olive oil, honey, cilantro, minced garlic, salt, and pepper in a mixing bowl. Whisk until well blended.

Step 2: Prepare the Grill

Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Brush with olive oil to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Grill the Chicken

Add marinated chicken breasts to the grill. Cook for about 5 minutes on each side or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Remove from heat.

Step 4: Make the Avocado Salsa

In another bowl, gently mix diced avocados, chopped tomatoes, rinsed red onion, minced garlic, and lime juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Serve

Slice the grilled chicken and top each piece generously with avocado salsa. Garnish with additional cilantro and parsley if desired. Enjoy your vibrant Cilantro-Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa!

How to Serve Cilantro-Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa

Cilantro-lime chicken with avocado salsa is a vibrant dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or looking for a quick weeknight meal, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

Tacos

• Use warm corn tortillas to wrap the grilled chicken and avocado salsa. Add some shredded cabbage for crunch.

Salad

• Slice the chicken and serve it over a bed of mixed greens. Drizzle with extra lime juice for added flavor.

Rice Bowl

• Serve the chicken and salsa over cilantro-lime rice. This creates a filling and flavorful meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner.

Sandwiches

• Create a refreshing sandwich by layering the chicken and salsa between crusty bread or a soft bun. Add some lettuce for an extra crunch.

Quinoa Bowl

• Pair the chicken with cooked quinoa, black beans, and avocado salsa for a hearty, nutritious bowl that’s great for meal prep.

How to Perfect Cilantro-Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa

Achieving the perfect cilantro-lime chicken with avocado salsa takes just a few simple tips. Follow these suggestions to enhance your cooking skills.

• Marinate the Chicken: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes to soak up all the flavors from the lime and cilantro.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always choose fresh limes, cilantro, and avocados for the best taste in your salsa.

• Preheat Your Grill: Ensure your grill is hot before placing the chicken on it. This helps achieve those nice grill marks and prevents sticking.

• Check Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to check that your chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safety and tenderness.

• Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust salt, pepper, and lime juice in your salsa just before serving to ensure it has the right balance of flavors.

• Let It Rest: Allow your grilled chicken to rest for 5 minutes after cooking. This helps retain its juices when you slice it.

Best Side Dishes for Cilantro-Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa

Pairing side dishes with cilantro-lime chicken enhances your meal’s overall experience. Here are some fantastic options that complement this dish beautifully.

1. Mexican Street Corn: Grilled corn on the cob slathered with mayo, cheese, chili powder, and lime juice creates a deliciously sweet-and-spicy contrast.

2. Black Beans: Seasoned black beans provide protein and fiber while adding depth to your meal. They pair perfectly with both the chicken and avocado salsa.

3. Cilantro-Lime Rice: Fluffy rice tossed with fresh cilantro and lime juice offers a zesty base that complements the flavors of the main dish beautifully.

4. Grilled Vegetables: A medley of bell peppers, zucchini, and onions grilled alongside the chicken brings color and nutrition to your plate.

5. Guacamole: A creamy side of guacamole adds richness while enhancing the overall flavor profile of your meal.

6. Pico de Gallo: Fresh tomato salsa provides additional brightness and can be served as a dip or topping along with your main dish.

7. Chips & Salsa: Tortilla chips served with a side of salsa make for a crunchy snack or appetizer that fits well into any Mexican-themed meal.

8. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries add sweetness and texture, making them an excellent complement to grilled dishes like this cilantro-lime chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Cilantro-Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to keep in mind.

• Skipping the marinade: Not marinating the chicken long enough can result in less flavorful meat. Aim for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate.
• Using overripe avocados: Choosing overly ripe avocados can lead to a mushy salsa. Opt for ripe but semi-firm avocados for the best texture.
• Not seasoning properly: Failure to season the chicken and salsa adequately can leave your dish bland. Use salt and pepper generously for enhanced flavor.
• Grilling on too high heat: Cooking chicken on high heat can lead to burning on the outside while remaining raw inside. Grill at medium heat for even cooking.
• Neglecting to rest the chicken: Cutting into the chicken immediately after grilling can cause juices to run out, resulting in dry meat. Allow it to rest for a few minutes before slicing.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep Cilantro-Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Cilantro-Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa

• Freeze grilled chicken separately from salsa for best quality.
• Place chicken in a freezer-safe container or bag, sealing it tightly; it can last up to 3 months.

Reheating Cilantro-Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat chicken for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals (about 30 seconds) until hot, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Warm chicken in a skillet over low heat; add a splash of water or broth if needed to keep it moist.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Cilantro-Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa best served with?

This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, quinoa, or fresh tortillas. You can also serve it alongside a simple green salad for added freshness.

Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

Yes! This recipe works well with shrimp or tofu as alternatives if you’re looking for different protein options.

How do I customize the avocado salsa?

Feel free to add ingredients like corn, jalapeños, or black beans for extra flavor and texture!

Is Cilantro-Lime Chicken healthy?

Absolutely! This dish is packed with lean protein and healthy fats from avocados, making it nutritious and satisfying.

Final Thoughts

Cilantro-Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa is not just delicious; it’s also versatile and perfect for various occasions. You can customize it easily by adding your favorite ingredients or serving it differently. We encourage you to try this refreshing recipe that’s sure to impress family and friends alike!

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Cilantro-Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Cilantro-Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa is a vibrant and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to festive gatherings. The grilled chicken breasts are marinated in fresh lime juice and cilantro, then topped with a refreshing avocado salsa that adds a burst of color and taste. This meal not only delights the palate but also looks stunning on the plate. Quick to prepare and made with wholesome ingredients, it’s a family-friendly recipe that everyone will love.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 1 Tbsp lime zest
• 1/3 cup fresh lime juice
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 1/2 tsp honey
• 1/3 cup chopped cilantro
• 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)
• 1 clove garlic (minced)
• 1 Tbsp fresh lime juice
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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Instructions

1. Marinate the chicken by mixing lime zest, lime juice, olive oil, honey, cilantro, garlic, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes.
2. Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat, brushing it with olive oil.
3. Grill the marinated chicken for about 5 minutes on each side or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
4. Prepare the avocado salsa by mixing diced avocados, tomatoes, rinsed red onion, minced garlic, and lime juice in another bowl. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Serve sliced chicken topped with avocado salsa and garnish with additional cilantro or parsley if desired.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 chicken breast (170g)
• Calories: 321
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 150mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 6g
• Protein: 27g
• Cholesterol: 70mg