Description
Try this Cilantro Lime Chicken with Corn for a zesty, fresh, and flavorful meal. Easy, healthy, and perfect for any occasion! 🌽🍗
Ingredients
Scale
For the Chicken Marinade:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Juice of 2 limes
- Zest of 1 lime
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
For the Corn Mixture:
- 2 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- Juice of 1 lime
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- ½ cup diced red bell pepper (optional for color and crunch)
- ½ cup crumbled Cotija or feta cheese (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
- In a large bowl, whisk together the lime juice, lime zest, olive oil, garlic, cumin, chili powder, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper.
- Add the chopped cilantro and stir to combine.
- Place the chicken breasts in the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours for deeper flavor).
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Grilling Method:
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (400°F / 200°C).
- Remove the chicken from the marinade and place it on the grill.
- Grill for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
Stovetop Method:
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
- Remove the chicken from the marinade and sear each side for 5-6 minutes, until golden brown and fully cooked.
- Transfer to a plate and let it rest.
Oven-Baked Method:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place the marinated chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until fully cooked.
Step 3: Prepare the Corn Mixture
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add the corn, salt, black pepper, and chili powder. Stir and cook for 3-5 minutes until slightly charred.
- Remove from heat and stir in lime juice, chopped cilantro, and red bell pepper.
- If desired, sprinkle with Cotija or feta cheese.
Step 4: Assemble and Serve
- Slice the grilled or cooked chicken into strips.
- Serve over a bed of the seasoned corn mixture.
- Garnish with additional fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice.
- Enjoy with rice, quinoa, or tortillas for a complete meal!
Notes
✔ Marinate longer for deeper flavor – While 30 minutes works, 2 hours gives even better results.
✔ Use fresh ingredients – Fresh lime juice and cilantro enhance the dish’s vibrant flavors.
✔ Don’t overcook the chicken – Use a thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (75°C) but stays juicy.
✔ Char the corn for extra smokiness – Slightly blackened corn adds amazing depth to the flavor.
✔ Pair with avocado or guacamole – The creaminess balances out the tangy lime and spices.
- Prep Time: 15minutes
- Cook Time: 20minutes