Cilantro Lime Chicken Marinade

This juicy, flavorful, tender Cilantro Lime Chicken is marinated in a zesty marinate and grilled until perfectly juicy. This fresh cilantro lime chicken will be your favorite summertime dish!

It is officially Memorial Day weekend which is the kick-off to summer here in Arizona! Since it is scorching hot here in the summer, we use our grill all of the time. Summer is the perfect season for grilling, and there’s no better way to enhance your backyard barbecue than with a zesty, flavorful cilantro lime chicken marinade.

I love to make a big batch of grilled chicken for meal prep for the entire week. This simple yet delicious cilantro lime chicken recipe brings a burst of freshness to your grill, transforming ordinary chicken into juicy, fresh, flavorful chicken.

The BEST CHICKEN MARINADE RECIPE has consistently been one of the most popular recipes on Modern Honey and always receives 5-star reviews.

I am sharing all of the details of making this irresistible marinade, why marinating is essential, and how to ensure your chicken is perfectly cooked every time.

Why should I marinate chicken?

Marinating chicken isn’t just about flavor—it’s a crucial step in ensuring your grilled chicken is juicy and tender. Here’s what happens when you marinate:

1. Flavor Infusion: The marinade seeps into the chicken, infusing it with the cilantro, lime, and spices, ensuring every bite is bursting with flavor.
2. Tenderization: The acid in the lime juice helps break down proteins in the chicken, making it more tender.
3. Moisture Retention: Olive oil and the other liquids help the chicken retain moisture during grilling, preventing it from drying out.

Marinades work by soaking into the surface layers of the meat. The acidic ingredients, like lime juice, break down the muscle fibers of the chicken, making it more tender. Meanwhile, salt enhances moisture absorption, and oils ensure even flavor distribution.

Ingredients for Cilantro Lime Chicken Marinade

To create the perfect cilantro lime chicken marinade, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• Cilantro, chopped: Adds a vibrant, fresh, herby flavor.
• Lime Juice: Provides a tangy, citrusy brightness.
• Olive oil: Helps to keep the chicken moist.
• Garlic Powder: Infuses a robust, aromatic depth.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Balances and enhances all the flavors.
• Brown Sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness to balance the acidity.
• Soy Sauce: Adds a umami flavor to the chicken.

How to Make Cilantro Lime Chicken Marinade

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, combine the chopped cilantro, lime juice, olive oil, garlic powder, soy sauce, brown sugar, salt, and pepper. Whisk everything together until well mixed. I suggest using only the cilantro leaves and removing the stems.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Place your chicken breasts or thighs in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it’s well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, preferably 2-4 hours, for maximum flavor.
3. Grill the Chicken: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and place it on the grill. Cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
4. Serve and Enjoy: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is juicy and flavorful.

How do I know when chicken is done grilling?

Some of my readers have shared that chicken intimidates them because they don’t know when it is fully cooked. I always say to buy a meat thermometer because it does the guess work for you! Knowing when your chicken is done is crucial to avoid undercooking or overcooking. Here is a tip:

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