Cilantro lime chicken with avocado salsa

Cilantro Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa features marinated chicken breasts grilled to perfection, complemented by a creamy and zesty avocado salsa. This dish is vibrant and ideal for quick dinners or barbecue gatherings.

08 Jan 2026
Cook time 12 min
Prep time 20 min

Ingredients:

1.50 lb chicken breasts
1/4 cup lime juice
2 tbsp olive oil
1.50 tsp ground cumin
1/4 tsp salt
4 avocados
1 tsp coriander leaves
3 tbsp lime juice
1/2 tbsp vinegar
1/2 tsp red pepper (spice)
1 garlic clove
1 dash salt

Cilantro Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa is a zesty and flavorful dish that combines juicy, tangy chicken breasts with a refreshing and creamy avocado salsa. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend barbecue, this recipe is a delightful treat that bursts with vibrant flavors.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Marinade:
- In a mixing bowl, combine 1/4 cup (60g) of lime juice, 2 tbsp (27g) of olive oil, 1.50 tsp (4.50g) ground cumin, and 1/4 tsp (1.50g) salt. Mix well.

2. Marinate the Chicken:
- Place the 1.50 lbs (680g) chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish.
- Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring that all pieces are well coated.
- Seal the bag or cover the dish and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, preferably up to 2 hours for better flavor.

3. Cook the Chicken:
- Preheat your grill or a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Remove the chicken breasts from the marinade, allowing excess marinade to drip off.
- Grill or cook the chicken breasts in the heated skillet for approximately 6-7 minutes per side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the chicken is cooked through.
- Remove from heat and let the chicken rest for a few minutes.

4. Prepare the Avocado Salsa:
- While the chicken is cooking, prepare the avocado salsa.
- In a bowl, combine 4 diced avocados, 1 tsp (1g) chopped coriander leaves, 3 tbsp (44g) lime juice, 1/2 tbsp (7g) vinegar, 1/2 tsp (1/6g) red pepper (spice), 1 minced garlic clove, and a dash of salt (0.40g). Mix gently to combine all ingredients.

5. Serve:
- If you want slice the grilled chicken breasts and arrange them on a serving platter.
- Spoon the avocado salsa generously over the chicken.
- Garnish with extra coriander leaves if desired.

6. Enjoy:
- Serve immediately while the chicken is warm, paired with your choice of side dishes such as rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad.

And there you have it—Cilantro Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa! This dish is not only delicious but also healthy and easy to prepare. The tangy lime juice and zesty spices perfectly complement the rich and creamy avocado salsa, making it a crowd-pleaser. Try it out and impress your family and friends with your culinary skills!

Cilantro lime chicken with avocado salsa FAQ:

How long should I marinate the chicken for best flavor?

For optimal flavor, marinate the chicken breasts for at least 30 minutes and up to 2 hours. This allows the lime juice and spices to infuse well.

What is the best way to check if the chicken is cooked through?

Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C). This ensures the chicken is fully cooked and safe to eat.

Can I use other types of chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use chicken thighs or boneless skinless chicken tenders instead of chicken breasts. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, focusing on the internal temperature.

How should I store leftovers of Cilantro Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa?

Store any leftover chicken and avocado salsa in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the chicken before serving, but it's best to consume the salsa fresh.

Are there any substitutions for the avocados in the salsa?

If avocados are unavailable, you can substitute them with diced mango or papaya for a sweet twist. However, the flavor and texture will differ from the original recipe.

Tips:

- For best results, marinate the chicken breasts for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight to allow the flavors to fully penetrate the meat.

- If you have a grill, use it for cooking the chicken to add a smoky flavor. Alternatively, you can use a grill pan or a regular frying pan.

- Prepare the avocado salsa right before serving to ensure the avocados stay fresh and vibrant. To prevent browning, you can also add a little extra lime juice.

- Adjust the amount of red pepper according to your spice tolerance. You can add more or less, or substitute with a milder chili if preferred.

- This dish pairs well with a side of rice, quinoa, or a fresh garden salad. It can also be served in tortillas for a delicious taco night.

Nutrition per serving

4 Servings
Calories 540kcal
Protein 44g
Carbohydrates 20g
Fiber 14g
Sugar 1.81g
Fat 40g

Cilantro lime chicken with avocado salsa