Description
A vibrant and refreshing recipe featuring juicy cilantro lime grilled chicken paired with a sweet and tangy strawberry salsa. Perfect for a healthy, flavorful meal that combines zesty, smoky, and fruity flavors in every bite.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Cilantro Lime Grilled Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup lime juice (about 2 limes)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Strawberry Salsa
- 1 1/2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 small jalapeño pepper, seeds removed and finely diced (optional for heat)
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional, depending on sweetness of strawberries)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the olive oil, lime juice, chopped cilantro, minced garlic, ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper to create a flavorful marinade.
- Prepare for Marination: Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours to allow the flavors to penetrate the chicken.
- Make the Strawberry Salsa: In a separate bowl, mix together the diced strawberries, finely diced red onion, chopped fresh cilantro, jalapeño (if using), lime juice, and honey (if using). Stir gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Season the Salsa: Add salt and pepper to taste and toss gently again. Refrigerate the salsa until ready to serve to keep it fresh and flavorful.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat to ensure it is hot enough for cooking the chicken properly.
- Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken breasts from the marinade, discarding any excess marinade. Place the chicken on the hot grill and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) indicating the chicken is fully cooked through.
- Rest and Slice: Once grilled, allow the chicken breasts to rest for a few minutes, then slice them for serving.
- Serve: Plate the sliced cilantro lime grilled chicken and top generously with the fresh strawberry salsa for a burst of sweet and tangy flavor.
- Optional Side: Serve alongside rice, quinoa, or a green salad to complete the meal with complementary textures and flavors.
Notes
- Marinate chicken for at least 30 minutes but no longer than 2 hours to avoid the lime juice starting to cook the meat.
- Adjust the jalapeño quantity or omit it based on your preferred spice level.
- Honey is optional and can be omitted if strawberries are naturally sweet.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Leftover strawberry salsa can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- For a smokier flavor, consider using a charcoal grill instead of a grill pan.
