Once you try this Cilantro Lime Chicken Marinade, it will be your go-to grilled chicken for the summer! Just a few simple ingredients, and you've got a marinated chicken you can use that day or freeze for later.
4boneless skinless chicken breasts, (you can slice in half lengthwise if you want thinner filets)
Cooking spray
Instructions
In a large bowl whisk together coconut milk, lime juice, oil, cilantro, garlic powder, salt and crushed red pepper until well combined.
Submerge chicken in marinade for 30 minutes to 12 hours in the refrigerator (or freeze in a plastic zipper bag).
When you're ready to grill, remove the chicken from the fridge 20 minutes in advance. Spray the grill with cooking spray and preheat it to medium high.
Place chicken pieces on the grill and discard marinade. Cook the first side for 3-5 minutes, rotating 45 degrees halfway through for crosshatch grill marks.
Turn chicken pieces and cook that side for another 3-5 minutes, rotating 45 degrees halfway through for crosshatch grill marks or until the chicken pieces reach an internal temperature of 160 degrees.
Remove chicken pieces to a clean plate and rest them for a couple minutes tented in foil. Serve immediately.
Notes
Be sure to shake the can of coconut milk really well to combine the cream with the liquid. If shaking doesn't help you can also pour it into a bowl and whisk it together.
Limes can vary in size, so you'll want to use anywhere from 2-4 limes to get ⅓ cup.
If you'd prefer a spicier marinade, just add more chili flakes. The ½ teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes I used won't really make this spicy.
Bring the chicken closer to room temperature prior to grilling. Remove the chicken from the from the fridge 20 minutes in advance if possible.
Rest the chicken before serving. Tent it and foil and rest for a few minutes to allow the juices to redistribute resulting in a tender, more juicy bite.
Prep ahead: You can marinate this in advance and even freeze the chicken in the marinade.
Leftovers and storage: Leftovers last up to 4 days covered in the fridge and taste great cold or reheated.