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Cilantro Lime Chicken with Corn – A Zesty and Flavorful Meal


  • Author: isabil
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

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

  1. 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.
  2. Add the chopped cilantro and stir to combine.
  3. 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:
  1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (400°F / 200°C).
  2. Remove the chicken from the marinade and place it on the grill.
  3. Grill for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
  4. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
Stovetop Method:
  1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
  2. Remove the chicken from the marinade and sear each side for 5-6 minutes, until golden brown and fully cooked.
  3. Transfer to a plate and let it rest.
Oven-Baked Method:
  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Place the marinated chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  3. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until fully cooked.

Step 3: Prepare the Corn Mixture

  1. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add the corn, salt, black pepper, and chili powder. Stir and cook for 3-5 minutes until slightly charred.
  3. Remove from heat and stir in lime juice, chopped cilantro, and red bell pepper.
  4. If desired, sprinkle with Cotija or feta cheese.

Step 4: Assemble and Serve

  1. Slice the grilled or cooked chicken into strips.
  2. Serve over a bed of the seasoned corn mixture.
  3. Garnish with additional fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice.
  4. 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