Half-Lime Grilled Chicken with Cilantro Sauce

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Juicy grilled chicken marinated in fresh lime juice and spices, served with a vibrant cilantro sauce for a zesty finish. This mexican-inspired chicken ready in about 30 minutes blends (about 4 limes) fresh lime juice, olive oil, ground cumin into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 280 calories and feeds 4, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 15 min Cook: 15 min Serves 4 Mexican cuisine 280 cal/serving
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Ingredients

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Instructions

  1. Step 1: In a bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup fresh lime juice, 3 tablespoons olive oil, 1 teaspoon ground cumin, 3 minced garlic cloves, and 1 teaspoon salt. Place 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes to 1 hour.
  2. Step 2: Meanwhile, prepare the cilantro sauce by blending 1 cup packed fresh cilantro leaves, 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt, 1 small seeded and chopped jalapeño, and 1 teaspoon honey in a food processor until smooth. Set aside.
  3. Step 3: Preheat grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F). Remove chicken breasts from marinade and grill for 6-7 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F and juices run clear.
  4. Step 4: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve drizzled with the cilantro sauce.

Frequently asked questions

How long does Half-Lime Grilled Chicken with Cilantro Sauce take to make?

Total time is about 30 minutes (15 min prep + 15 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Half-Lime Grilled Chicken with Cilantro Sauce?

Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.

Can I substitute ingredients in Half-Lime Grilled Chicken with Cilantro Sauce?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Half-Lime Grilled Chicken with Cilantro Sauce for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

What goes well with Half-Lime Grilled Chicken with Cilantro Sauce?

Mexican chicken like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.

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