Skillet Chicken with Cilantro Lime Sauce Recipe – American Special
Looking for a weeknight meal that dazzles without fuss? Skillet Chicken with Cilantro Lime delivers just that, featuring tender chicken breasts seared to golden perfection and topped with a zesty sauce made from fresh lime juice, chopped cilantro, and garlic. The bold, bright blend of flavors—forged together with a touch of broth and a hint of honey—makes this dish both refreshing and satisfying. Whether paired with rice or steamed vegetables, it’s your go-to when you want something simple but memorable.
- Prep Time20 min
- Cook Time10 min
- Total Time30 min
For the Chicken Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs if preferred)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- For the Cilantro Lime Sauce:
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How to make Skillet Chicken with Cilantro Lime Sauce:
Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and has an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Make the Cilantro Lime Sauce: In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, until fragrant but not burned.
Pour in the lime juice, chicken broth, honey (if using), and ground cumin. Stir well and let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to combine and the sauce to reduce slightly.
Stir in the chopped cilantro and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Combine and Serve: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, spooning some of the sauce over the top.
Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for a few minutes to absorb the flavors.
Serve the chicken with the cilantro lime sauce drizzled over the top. This dish pairs well with rice, quinoa, or a side of vegetables.
Recipe Notes:
Cooking Tips: To get the best sear and flavor, ensure the skillet is hot before adding the seasoned chicken. Let the chicken cook undisturbed for 6-7 minutes per side so a crust forms.
Marinade Alternatives: If lime isn’t available, use lemon in its place for a slightly different citrus touch. Replace cilantro with fresh parsley if preferred, or mix both for freshness.
Sauce Consistency: If the sauce reduces too much, add a bit more chicken broth or water. For a thicker sauce, allow it to simmer a couple more minutes after adding the garlic and broth.
Side Pairing: This dish pairs beautifully with steamed white rice, cilantro rice, quinoa, or roasted vegetables. A fresh green salad or grilled corn also makes a nice accompaniment.
Leftovers Instructions: Store leftover chicken and sauce separately in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently over low heat to avoid overcooking. Add a splash of broth or lime juice when reheating to restore freshness.
