Lime-Cilantro Grilled Chicken Tacos with Fresh Salsa

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

Juicy grilled chicken marinated in zesty lime and cilantro, served in warm tortillas with a vibrant tomato and onion salsa. This mexican-inspired chicken ready in about 50 minutes blends boneless skinless chicken breasts, fresh lime juice, olive oil 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 320 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: 35 min Cook: 15 min Serves 4 Mexican cuisine 320 cal/serving
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Ingredients

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Instructions

  1. Step 1: In a bowl, combine 3 tbsp fresh lime juice, 2 tbsp olive oil, 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 tsp ground cumin, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Add 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
  2. Step 2: Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade and grill for 6-7 minutes per side until cooked through and internal temperature reaches 165°F, with nice grill marks.
  3. Step 3: While chicken cooks, mix 1 cup small diced tomatoes and 1/4 cup small diced white onion in a bowl to create fresh salsa.
  4. Step 4: Warm 8 corn tortillas on the grill or skillet for 30 seconds per side until pliable and slightly charred.
  5. Step 5: Slice grilled chicken into thin strips and distribute evenly among tortillas. Top with fresh tomato salsa and a dollop of 1/4 cup sour cream.
  6. Step 6: Serve immediately with lime wedges for extra brightness.

Frequently asked questions

How long does Lime-Cilantro Grilled Chicken Tacos with Fresh Salsa take to make?

Total time is about 50 minutes (35 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 Lime-Cilantro Grilled Chicken Tacos with Fresh Salsa?

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 Lime-Cilantro Grilled Chicken Tacos with Fresh Salsa?

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 Lime-Cilantro Grilled Chicken Tacos with Fresh Salsa 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 Lime-Cilantro Grilled Chicken Tacos with Fresh Salsa?

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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