Cilantro-Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa

Lightly charred, tender grilled Cilantro-Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa is a dish that shines on any dinner table. This recipe combines zesty lime flavors with fresh cilantro and creamy avocado to create a delightful meal perfect for summer barbecues, weeknight dinners, or even special occasions. Not only is it visually appealing, but it’s also packed with nutrients, making it a healthy choice for chicken lovers.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 10 minutes of prep time and another 10 minutes of cooking, you can enjoy this delicious meal in under 30 minutes.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of lime, cilantro, and garlic ensures every bite is packed with freshness and zest.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it over rice, in tacos, or alongside a salad for a meal that fits any craving or dietary preference.
• Healthy Ingredients: This recipe features lean chicken and nutrient-rich vegetables, making it a wholesome option for any night of the week.
• Great for Meal Prep: Perfect for batch cooking; you can make extra to enjoy as leftovers throughout the week.

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Tools and Preparation

To make the best Cilantro-Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa, having the right tools simplifies the process. Ensure you have everything ready before starting your culinary adventure!

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill or grill pan: Ideal for achieving that perfect char on your chicken while infusing smoky flavors.
• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining ingredients for marinades and salsas efficiently.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and easy, ensuring uniform pieces in your salsa.
• Cutting board: A sturdy cutting surface protects your countertops while providing a safe area to prepare ingredients.

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: Marinate the Chicken

In a mixing bowl, combine lime zest, lime juice, olive oil, honey, chopped cilantro, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Place the chicken breasts in the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Let them marinate for at least 15 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Avocado Salsa

While the chicken marinates, combine diced avocados, chopped tomatoes, rinsed red onion, minced garlic, and lime juice in a separate bowl. Gently stir to mix without mashing the avocados. Season with salt to taste.

Step 3: Grill the Chicken

Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Lightly brush with olive oil. Remove chicken from marinade and place it on the grill. Cook each side for about 5 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

Step 4: Serve

Once cooked through, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. Top each chicken breast with a generous amount of avocado salsa before serving. Enjoy your vibrant plate of Cilantro-Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa!

How to Serve Cilantro-Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa

Cilantro-lime chicken with avocado salsa is a delicious and vibrant dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your meal experience.

Serve with Rice

• Pair the chicken with fluffy white or brown rice to soak up the zesty flavors of the marinade.

Top a Salad

• Slice the grilled chicken and serve it over a bed of mixed greens, topped with the avocado salsa for a refreshing salad option.

Use in Tacos

• Shred the cilantro-lime chicken and fill soft or hard taco shells. Top with avocado salsa, cheese, and fresh vegetables for a fun twist.

Create a Grain Bowl

• Layer quinoa or farro at the bottom of a bowl, followed by cilantro-lime chicken and avocado salsa for a hearty, nutritious meal.

How to Perfect Cilantro-Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa

To ensure 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 to absorb maximum flavor from the lime and cilantro.

• Preheat Your Grill: Always preheat your grill before placing the chicken on it. This helps achieve those beautiful grill marks and ensures even cooking.

• Use a Meat Thermometer: Check for doneness using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) for perfectly cooked chicken.

• Rest Before Slicing: Let the grilled chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This keeps it juicy and flavorful.

Best Side Dishes for Cilantro-Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa

Cilantro-lime chicken pairs well with a variety of side dishes that complement its bright flavors. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Mexican Rice
   A flavorful rice dish cooked with tomatoes and spices that pairs excellently with grilled chicken.

2. Black Beans
   Seasoned black beans add protein and fiber while bringing out the dish’s Mexican flavors.

3. Grilled Corn on the Cob
   Sweet corn brushed with lime butter enhances the fresh taste of your meal.

4. Coleslaw
   A crunchy cabbage slaw adds texture and balances the richness of avocado salsa.

5. Guacamole
   Creamy guacamole complements both the chicken and salsa while adding more avocado goodness!

6. Roasted Vegetables
   Colorful roasted veggies like bell peppers and zucchini provide added nutrition and flavor diversity to your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common pitfalls can elevate your Cilantro-Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa experience. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Using overcooked chicken: Overcooking can lead to dry meat. Ensure you grill until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
• Skipping the marinade: Not marinating the chicken reduces flavor. Allow at least 30 minutes for the flavors to develop.
• Ignoring ripe avocados: Using unripe avocados can affect texture. Choose avocados that yield slightly to gentle pressure.
• Not seasoning enough: Insufficient seasoning can make the dish bland. Don’t hesitate to add more salt and pepper according to taste.
• Chopping ingredients unevenly: Unevenly chopped salsa ingredients can create an inconsistent texture. Aim for uniform sizes for even flavor distribution.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Cilantro-Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa

• Freeze grilled chicken separately from salsa.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags, and store for up to 3 months.

Reheating Cilantro-Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat chicken until warmed through (about 20 minutes).
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish, covering it loosely. Heat in short intervals until warmed, stirring occasionally.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use other herbs for this recipe?

Yes! While cilantro is traditional, parsley or basil can be used as alternatives if desired.

How spicy is Cilantro-Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa?

This dish is not inherently spicy. However, you can add jalapeños or hot sauce for an extra kick.

What can I serve with Cilantro-Lime Chicken?

Consider pairing it with rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Can this dish be made ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken and prepare the salsa in advance for easy cooking later.

Final Thoughts

Cilantro-Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa is a delightful dish perfect for any occasion. Its vibrant flavors and healthy ingredients make it versatile. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite toppings or side dishes!