Jalapeno Cilantro Grilled Chicken
Jalapeno Cilantro Grilled Chicken is a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines the smoky heat of jalapeños with the bright, zesty notes of fresh cilantro and lime. Marinated in a blend of spices, olive oil, and a touch of honey for balance, the chicken is grilled to perfection, creating a juicy, tender texture with a slightly charred, aromatic crust. Perfect for summer cookouts or a quick weeknight meal, this dish pairs beautifully with rice, fresh salads, or roasted vegetables. Customizable for spice levels, it’s a crowd-pleaser that brings bold, fresh flavors to your table.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Marinate Time: 30 minutes | Cook Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour | Servings: 4
Ingredients:
For the Marinade
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
2-3 fresh jalapenos (seeded for less heat)
1 cup fresh cilantro (stems removed)
3 garlic cloves
Juice and zest of 2 limes
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons honey (optional, for balance)
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
Prepare the Marinade
In a blender or food processor, combine jalapeños, cilantro, garlic, lime juice/zest, olive oil, honey, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Blend until smooth.
Marinate the Chicken
Place chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it’s well coated.
Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight for deeper flavor.
Grill the Chicken
Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
Remove chicken from the marinade and shake off excess.
Grill chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Optional Garnish
Top with fresh cilantro leaves and serve with lime wedges.
Notes:
Chicken Thighs: This recipe works equally well with chicken thighs for a juicier result.
Heat Level: Adjust the number of jalapeños and whether you include the seeds to control spiciness.
Oven Option: If grilling isn’t an option, bake the chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes or until fully cooked.
Tips
Flatten Chicken: For even cooking, pound chicken breasts to uniform thickness before marinating.
Marinade as a Sauce: Reserve some marinade (before adding it to the raw chicken) to use as a drizzle or dipping sauce.
Pairs Well With: Serve with rice, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
Prep Ahead: Double the marinade and freeze portions with chicken for a ready-to-cook meal.
Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 4 servings)
Calories: ~250
Protein: 30g
Fat: 10g
Carbohydrates: 5g
Fiber: 1g
Sugars: 3g
Sodium: 500mg
Enjoy your flavorful, zesty grilled chicken!