Cilantro Lime Chicken Recipe
Introduction
This Cilantro Lime Chicken recipe is a quick and flavorful meal perfect for weeknights. Tender chicken tenders marinated in zhoug sauce create a vibrant, zesty dish that’s easy to prepare and delicious to eat.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds chicken tenders
- 1/3 cup zhoug sauce
- Salt to taste
- Olive oil to coat the pan
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large freezer bag, combine the chicken tenders, zhoug sauce, and salt. Toss well to coat the chicken evenly. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight to let the flavors meld.
- Step 2: Heat olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken tenders and cook undisturbed for 3–4 minutes until browned on one side.
- Step 3: Flip the chicken tenders and cook for another 3–4 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165˚F (74˚C).
- Step 4: Remove the chicken from the pan and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving to retain juiciness.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken overnight. This allows the zhoug sauce to deeply penetrate the meat.
- If you can’t find zhoug sauce, try substituting with a blend of fresh cilantro, chili, garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil.
- Serve the chicken with rice, quinoa, or wrapped in warm tortillas for a tasty meal option.
Storage
Store leftover cilantro lime chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave until warmed through to avoid drying out the chicken.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
What is zhoug sauce?
Zhoug is a spicy Middle Eastern condiment made from fresh herbs like cilantro and parsley, combined with chili peppers, garlic, and spices. It adds a fresh, vibrant kick to dishes.
Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?
Yes, chicken breasts can be used. Slice them into strips or pieces similar in size to tenders to ensure even cooking, and adjust cook time as needed until fully cooked.
PrintCilantro Lime Chicken Recipe
A flavorful Cilantro Lime Chicken recipe featuring tender chicken tenders marinated in zough sauce and cooked to juicy perfection in a skillet. Quick to prepare and packed with zesty, herby flavors, making it perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes (including marinating time)
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1 ½ pounds chicken tenders
- Salt to taste
Marinade
- 1/3 cup zough sauce
Cooking
- Olive oil to coat the pan
Instructions
- Marinate the chicken: In a large freezer bag, combine the chicken tenders, 1/3 cup of zough sauce, and salt to taste. Toss well to ensure all the chicken pieces are evenly coated with the marinade. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, ideally up to overnight, to allow the flavors to infuse deeply.
- Heat the pan: Place a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat and add a light coating of olive oil to prevent sticking and aid in browning.
- Cook the chicken: Add the marinated chicken tenders to the hot skillet in a single layer. Cook undisturbed for 3-4 minutes on one side until nicely seared and browned. Flip the chicken tenders over and continue cooking for an additional 3-4 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), ensuring they are thoroughly cooked and juicy.
- Rest and serve: Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute. Serve warm and enjoy!
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Notes
- For best results, marinate the chicken overnight to maximize flavor absorption.
- Use a meat thermometer to accurately check for doneness (165°F internal temperature).
- Zough sauce is a spicy, herby green sauce often used in Middle Eastern cuisine, combining cilantro, garlic, and green chili peppers.
- You can serve the chicken with a side of rice, salad, or flatbread for a complete meal.
- If you prefer less spicy, reduce the amount of zough sauce or substitute with a milder marinade.
Keywords: cilantro lime chicken, zough sauce chicken, skillet chicken, easy chicken recipe, marinated chicken tenders, Middle Eastern chicken
