Cilantro Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa is the kind of dish that tastes like a vacation on a plate — fresh, zesty, and bursting with flavor. It’s the ultimate summertime meal, but thanks to its easy preparation and year-round ingredients, it’s perfect for any weeknight dinner.
This recipe features juicy, pan-seared or grilled chicken that’s been marinated in a bold mixture of lime juice, garlic, cumin, and fresh cilantro. The result is chicken that’s flavorful, tender, and slightly charred with citrusy brightness in every bite.
What truly sets this recipe apart is the avocado salsa — a chunky, refreshing mix of ripe avocado, tomato, red onion, and lime that acts as both topping and side. It brings creamy contrast to the tangy chicken, making every bite layered and balanced.
This dish is naturally gluten-free, dairy-free, and packed with protein and healthy fats. It’s also a great low-carb option for those following keto, paleo, or Whole30-style eating plans.
With minimal prep and a quick cooking time, it’s ideal for busy weeknights when you want something nutritious and exciting without the hassle. It’s also an impressive dish to serve guests or enjoy al fresco on a sunny day.
The marinade is simple but powerful. Lime tenderizes the chicken, cilantro infuses it with herbal freshness, and spices give it depth. The longer you marinate, the more flavor the chicken absorbs — but even 30 minutes can make a big difference.
This recipe works great with boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts. It’s flexible, forgiving, and perfect for batch cooking.
Pair it with rice, quinoa, or lettuce wraps. You can even slice the chicken and serve it over a salad or tuck it into tacos.
The avocado salsa is equally adaptable. Add diced mango for sweetness or jalapeño for heat, or spoon it over grilled fish or roasted vegetables.
You’ll love how vibrant and nourishing this meal is. It’s the kind of recipe that feels indulgent but is actually incredibly healthy.
Every element is made with whole, fresh ingredients. There are no heavy sauces or fried elements here — just clean eating that tastes amazing.
Kids enjoy the mild, citrusy flavor of the chicken, and adults appreciate the brightness and balance of the entire dish.
Make it once and it’s bound to become a go-to recipe in your dinner rotation. The flavors are so fresh and bold, you won’t believe it only took a few ingredients and steps.
Whether you’re feeding a family or meal prepping for yourself, Cilantro Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa delivers big flavor with little effort.
Servings
Serves: 4 people
Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus marinating time)
- Marinate Time: 30 minutes to 2 hours
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour (including marinating)
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
For the Avocado Salsa:
- 2 ripe avocados, diced
- 1 medium tomato, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large bowl or zip-top bag, combine lime juice, olive oil, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, pepper, and cilantro. Add chicken and marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, up to 2 hours.
- While the chicken marinates, prepare the avocado salsa by gently mixing avocado, tomato, red onion, lime juice, and cilantro in a bowl. Season with salt and pepper. Chill until ready to serve.
- Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade and cook for 5–7 minutes per side, or until cooked through and slightly charred.
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- Serve topped with avocado salsa, alongside rice, lettuce, or as desired.
Tips
- Don’t skip the marinating time — it infuses flavor and tenderizes the chicken.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F internally.
- For extra char, grill the chicken instead of pan-searing.
- Add diced mango or jalapeño to the salsa for a twist.
- Store leftovers separately and assemble fresh for best texture.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Bursting with bold, fresh flavors
- Healthy and low-carb
- Quick and easy to prepare
- Naturally gluten-free and dairy-free
- Perfect for meal prep or entertaining
Summary
This Cilantro Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa is a light, fresh, and flavor-packed meal that comes together easily with just a few simple ingredients. Marinated chicken and zesty avocado salsa make the perfect pair for a satisfying, healthy dinner.
