Cilantro-Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa is a fresh, flavorful, and healthy dish that’s perfect for any time of the year. The chicken is marinated in a zesty cilantro-lime mixture, then grilled to perfection, creating a juicy and delicious meal. Paired with a bright and creamy avocado salsa, this dish is ideal for a light lunch, dinner, or as part of a festive gathering.
Ingredients:
For the cilantro-lime chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- ¼ cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
For the avocado salsa:
- 2 ripe avocados, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ¼ cup red onion, finely diced
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped (optional, for heat)
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Marinate the chicken:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, minced garlic, chopped cilantro, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over the chicken. Seal the bag or cover the dish, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to 2 hours (for best flavor).
- Make the avocado salsa:
- In a medium bowl, gently combine the diced avocados, cherry tomatoes, red onion, jalapeño (if using), lime juice, and cilantro. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside in the refrigerator to chill while you cook the chicken.
- Cook the chicken:
- Preheat a grill, grill pan, or skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the marinade.
- Grill the chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). If using a skillet, add a little olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Serve:
- Once the chicken is cooked, transfer it to a plate and let it rest for 5 minutes. Top each chicken breast with a generous scoop of the fresh avocado salsa and serve immediately.
Enjoy this Cilantro-Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa for a refreshing and flavorful meal that’s both light and satisfying! Serve it with rice, a side salad, or tortilla chips for a complete dish.
