This cilantro lime rooster is juicy, zesty, and full of taste! Made with easy components and ideal for the grill or stovetop, it’s a simple, versatile protein that’s nice in tacos, bowls, salads, and extra.
I initially threw this cilantro lime rooster collectively on a whim—simply mixing up what I had readily available—and it turned out so good I needed to write it down and share it on the weblog!
It’s shiny, garlicky, and has simply the correct amount of tang from all that recent lime. Isaac and I often grill it (particularly now that it’s getting hotter exterior), nevertheless it additionally cooks up superbly on the stovetop.
We love serving it with white rice and a scoop of my pineapple salsa or grilled candy potatoes for dinner. Then I’ll often repurpose the leftovers right into a protein-packed salad with no matter veggies I’ve within the fridge. It’s so good—I can’t wait so that you can do that one!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
In case you’re craving one thing easy, recent, and filled with taste, this rooster completely hits the spot. Right here’s why I’m obsessed:
- Flavorful – Lime, cilantro, garlic, and spices come collectively for the proper zesty combo.
- Juicy – Rooster thighs keep tender and flavorful whether or not you grill or pan-sear them.
- Tremendous versatile – Scrumptious in bowls, tacos, salads, or served together with your favourite sides.
- Nice for meal-prep – Make a batch throughout your weekend prep for fast, high-protein meals all week lengthy.
Substances Wanted
- rooster thighs – I like utilizing boneless, skinless rooster thighs for additional taste and tenderness. You’ll be able to sub in rooster breasts in the event you favor, however thighs keep tremendous juicy and are a bit of extra forgiving when cooking.
- olive oil – Helps the marinade stick and provides richness.
- lime juice and lime zest – The actual stars of the present. You’ll want two limes to get each juice and zest—this brightens the flavour, provides tang, and helps tenderize the rooster.
- cilantro – Freshly chopped cilantro provides that herby, vibrant taste we love.
- garlic – Two cloves, minced. Don’t skimp—it provides a lot depth to the marinade.
- maple syrup – Only a contact to stability the acidity and spice. It doesn’t make the rooster candy, however helps spherical out all of the flavors. You should use honey as a substitute if that’s what you favor.
- cumin and paprika – Earthy, smoky spices that complement the lime and cilantro superbly.
- salt and pepper – Important for bringing all the things collectively.
- purple pepper flakes – Completely elective, however I like the little kick they add!
Can I Use Rooster Breasts As a substitute of Thighs?
Sure, boneless, skinless rooster breasts work nice on this recipe in the event you favor them over thighs. Simply remember that breasts are leaner and might dry out extra simply, so that you’ll wish to watch your cooking time intently.
On the grill, rooster breasts often take about 8–16 minutes relying on thickness. They could want a bit longer on the stovetop. The easiest way to make sure they’re completely cooked is to make use of a meat thermometer—you’re on the lookout for an inside temperature of 165°F within the thickest a part of the breast.
Easy methods to Make Cilantro Lime Rooster (Grill Methodology)
Step 1: Whisk the marinade collectively in a small bowl.
Step 2: In a bowl or zip-lock bag, add the rooster and marinade. Marinate for at the least half-hour (or as much as 2 hours within the fridge).
Step 3: Preheat the grill to medium-high warmth (375-450°F). Frivolously oil the grates. Take away rooster from marinade and grill for 5-7 minutes per aspect, or till inside temp reaches 165°F.
Step 4: Let rooster relaxation for five minutes, then slice and serve with desired sides.
Brittany’s Suggestions for Success!
- Don’t skip the zest! Lime zest provides a punch of taste you simply can’t get from juice alone. It makes a giant distinction.
- Marinate, however don’t overdo it: half-hour is lots. Too lengthy and the lime juice can begin to break down the meat an excessive amount of.
- Use a meat thermometer: Rooster is completely cooked when it hits 165°F. No guessing wanted!
- Let the rooster relaxation: After cooking, let the rooster relaxation for five minutes to lock in these juicy flavors.
Serving Solutions
There are many methods you possibly can serve this cilantro lime rooster. I prefer to serve it plain with a aspect of rice and roasted veggies for dinner or sliced and added to a salad for lunch. Listed here are a couple of concepts to get you impressed:
Storing & Reheating Leftovers
Retailer any leftover cilantro lime rooster in an hermetic container within the fridge for as much as 4 days. It’s good for meal prep—simply slice and add it to bowls, salads, wraps, or tacos all through the week.
You can even freeze cooked rooster for as much as 3 months. Be sure you let it cool utterly earlier than transferring to a freezer-safe container or bag.
To reheat, heat gently in a skillet or microwave till heated by way of. If frozen, thaw in a single day within the fridge earlier than reheating.
Ceaselessly Requested Questions
For the very best taste, marinate the rooster for at the least half-hour, however not than 2 hours. Lime juice is acidic and might break down the meat an excessive amount of if left too lengthy.
It pairs completely with rice, grilled greens, pineapple salsa, candy potatoes, or in tacos and salads. See some further serving ideas above!
Completely! Bake at 400°F for about 20–25 minutes or till the inner temperature reaches 165°F. You’ll be able to even broil it for a few minutes on the finish to get that golden colour.
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Be sure you take a look at all the rooster recipes on EBF!
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