Skillet Cilantro Lime Chicken Recipe

This is one of those recipes I come back to again and again. It’s bright, juicy, and full of bold flavor — and the best part? It only takes about 25 minutes and one pan.
This Skillet Cilantro Lime Chicken is perfect for those warm nights when you want something fresh but still satisfying. The chicken gets a gorgeous golden sear, then simmers in a quick cilantro lime sauce that tastes like summer in a skillet.
Serve it with rice, quinoa, lettuce wraps, or grilled veggies. It’s clean, simple, and packed with flavor your whole family will love.
Ingredients:
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1 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts
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1 tbsp olive oil
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Juice and zest of 2 limes
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
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½ tsp cumin
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Salt and pepper to taste
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Optional: extra cilantro or lime wedges for garnish
Instructions:
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Season and sear
Season chicken with salt, pepper, and cumin. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 4–5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside. -
Make the sauce
In the same pan, reduce heat to medium. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds, then stir in lime juice, zest, and chopped cilantro. Simmer for 1–2 minutes. -
Return the chicken
Add chicken back to the skillet, spoon sauce over the top, and simmer another 2 minutes to bring all the flavors together. -
Serve warm
Garnish with more cilantro or lime wedges and serve with your favorite sides!
Sarah’s Tips:
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Use thighs for maximum juiciness, but thin-sliced breasts work too.
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Make it spicy: Add a pinch of chili flakes or chopped jalapeño to the sauce.
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Meal prep win: This chicken is delicious cold over a salad or in wraps.
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No cilantro? Swap for fresh parsley and add a little lime zest for brightness.
Flavorful Conclusion:
This Skillet Cilantro Lime Chicken Recipe is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can make seriously bold flavors. It’s fresh, juicy, and totally weeknight-approved — and it all happens in one pan. Whether you serve it with rice, greens, or stuffed in lettuce wraps, it’s a dinner that checks all the boxes.
Nutrition (per serving, serves 4):
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Calories: 320
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Protein: 34g
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Carbs: 3g
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Fat: 18g
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Fiber: 1g
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Sugar: 1g
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