Cilantro-Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa

Lightly charred, tender grilled Cilantro-Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa is perfect for any occasion. This dish combines vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients, making it a delicious choice for family dinners, summer barbecues, or meal prep. The delightful lime-infused avocado salsa adds a refreshing twist that perfectly complements the juicy chicken.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With a total time of just 20 minutes, this dish is ideal for busy weeknights.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of lime, cilantro, and avocado creates a zesty taste that enhances your meal.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as a main course or use it in wraps, salads, or tacos for variety.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein and healthy fats, it’s a nutritious option that satisfies your cravings.
• Crowd-Pleaser: This recipe is sure to impress guests at gatherings with its vibrant colors and flavors.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gathering the right tools will make your experience seamless. Here are a few essentials you’ll need to make this recipe.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill or grill pan: Essential for achieving that delicious char on the chicken while infusing smoky flavor.
• Mixing bowl: Helps combine marinades and salsas easily without spills.
• Knife: Necessary for chopping vegetables and cutting chicken into portions.

Ingredients

Lightly charred, tender grilled cilantro lime chicken breasts topped with the most refreshing and bright, lime-infused avocado salsa!

For the Chicken:

• 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: Prepare the Marinade

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the lime zest, fresh lime juice, olive oil, honey, chopped cilantro, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken breasts in a large resealable bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken and seal or cover. Refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to let the flavors meld.

Step 3: Prepare the Grill

Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Brush it lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Grill the Chicken

Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard any leftover marinade. Place the chicken on the grill. Cook for about 5 minutes on each side or until fully cooked through and juices run clear.

Step 5: Make Avocado Salsa

In another mixing bowl, combine diced avocados, chopped Roma tomatoes, rinsed red onion, minced garlic, and fresh lime juice. Gently stir until mixed but be careful not to mash the avocados too much.

Step 6: Serve

Once the chicken is grilled to perfection, let it rest for a couple of minutes. Top each piece with avocado salsa before serving. Enjoy your flavorful Cilantro-Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa!

How to Serve Cilantro-Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa

Cilantro-lime chicken with avocado salsa is a vibrant and delicious meal, perfect for any occasion. The bright flavors make it easy to pair with various sides and garnishes to elevate your dining experience.

With Fresh Tortillas

• Warm corn or flour tortillas make an excellent base for the chicken and salsa. Just fill them up and enjoy!

On a Bed of Greens

• Serve the chicken over a bed of mixed greens or spinach for a light, refreshing salad that adds crunch.

With Rice or Quinoa

• Pairing the cilantro-lime chicken with fluffy rice or quinoa creates a satisfying meal that absorbs the flavors of the dish.

Accompanied by Grilled Vegetables

• Adding grilled vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus enhances the meal’s freshness and adds color to your plate.

How to Perfect Cilantro-Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa

To ensure your cilantro-lime chicken turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips:

• Marinate overnight: For maximum flavor, allow the chicken to marinate in lime juice, olive oil, and garlic overnight.

• Use a meat thermometer: Cooking the chicken to an internal temperature of 165°F ensures it is safe to eat while remaining juicy.

• Preheat your grill: A hot grill helps achieve those beautiful char marks while sealing in moisture.

• Rest before serving: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking. This allows juices to redistribute throughout the meat.

Best Side Dishes for Cilantro-Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa

When serving cilantro-lime chicken with avocado salsa, complement it with these delightful side dishes:

1. Cilantro Rice: Fluffy white or brown rice infused with fresh cilantro and lime juice enhances the dish’s zesty flavor.

2. Black Bean Salad: A refreshing salad featuring black beans, corn, bell peppers, and lime dressing adds protein and texture.

3. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with olive oil and grilled until tender provides a deliciously smoky taste.

4. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Cubes of sweet potatoes tossed in olive oil and spices add a sweet contrast to the savory chicken.

5. Mexican Street Corn Salad: A salad made with charred corn, lime juice, cotija cheese (or dairy-free alternative), and spices creates a creamy side option.

6. Zucchini Noodles: Spiralized zucchini dressed lightly in olive oil offers a low-carb option that complements the bold flavors of the chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your cilantro-lime chicken with avocado salsa turns out perfectly, avoid these common pitfalls.

• Skipping the marination: Not allowing the chicken to marinate can lead to less flavor. Marinate for at least 30 minutes for a delicious result.
• Overcooking the chicken: Overcooking can make the chicken dry. Use a meat thermometer and cook until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
• Ignoring seasoning: Skipping salt and pepper can dull the flavors. Season generously before grilling for a more vibrant taste.
• Choosing unripe avocados: Using hard avocados can affect the texture of your salsa. Select ripe but firm avocados for the best results.
• Not rinsing red onions: Failing to rinse red onions may leave a strong bite in your salsa. Rinse them under cool water to mellow their flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep the chicken and salsa separate to maintain freshness.

Freezing Cilantro-Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa

• Freeze the chicken without salsa for optimal quality.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags; it lasts up to 3 months.

Reheating Cilantro-Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to keep it moist.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making cilantro-lime chicken with avocado salsa.

Can I substitute other herbs in Cilantro-Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa?

Yes, you can experiment with herbs like parsley or basil if cilantro isn’t your favorite.

How do I know when my chicken is done cooking?

Use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

What sides pair well with Cilantro-Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa?

Consider serving it with rice, quinoa, or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken and prepare the salsa in advance for quick assembly later.

Final Thoughts

Cilantro-lime chicken with avocado salsa is not only refreshing but also versatile. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings. Feel free to customize it by adding other veggies or spices that you love!