Experience the zesty flavors of our Low Carb Air Fryer Cilantro Lime Chicken recipe. This mouthwatering dish combines juicy chicken with fresh cilantro and tangy lime for a burst of flavor that's sure to delight your taste buds.

Cilantro Lime Chicken on a green and white plate with chopped lime and corn salsa

Why You'll Love This Low Carb Chicken

Low Carb Delight. Perfect for those watching their carb intake, this dish is light on carbs but heavy on flavor.
Quick and Convenient. With the air fryer, you can enjoy crispy chicken without the hassle of deep frying. Plus, it cooks up in no time!
Fresh and Vibrant. The combination of cilantro and lime adds a refreshing twist to classic chicken, making it a refreshing choice for any meal.

Whether you're following a low-carb diet or simply craving a healthier alternative, this recipe is a must-try for any chicken lover.

Is Cilantro Lime Chicken Good?

Cilantro lime chicken is not only good but also incredibly delicious! It's a flavorful and versatile dish that combines the fresh, citrusy taste of lime with the herbaceousness of cilantro.

The acidity from the lime juice helps to tenderize the chicken while infusing it with bright and zesty flavors, while the cilantro adds a refreshing and aromatic element to the dish.

Ingredients You'll Need

Chicken Breasts- Tender and juicy chicken breasts serve as the base of this dish.
Fresh Cilantro- Chopped cilantro adds a burst of fresh flavor.
Lime Juice- Tangy lime juice infuses the chicken with zesty goodness.
Olive Oil- Coats the chicken to ensure it cooks up moist and delicious.
Garlic- Minced garlic adds depth and aroma to the marinade.
Salt and Pepper- Season to taste for a perfectly balanced flavor.
Red Pepper Flakes-Optional for a touch of heat.

How To Make Cilantro Lime Chicken

Prepare the Marinade. In a bowl, combine chopped cilantro, lime juice, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Marinate the Chicken. Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it's evenly coated. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Preheat the Air Fryer. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F for 5 minutes.
Air Fry the Chicken. Once the chicken has marinated, remove it from the fridge and shake off any excess marinade. Place the chicken breasts in the air fryer basket in a single layer, leaving space between each piece for optimal air circulation.
Cook Until Golden Brown. Air fry the chicken breasts for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F.
Serve and Enjoy. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.

Overhead image of Cilantro Lime Chicken with corn salsa and chopped lime

Tips And Tricks

Here are some tips and tricks for making delicious cilantro lime chicken:

Marinating Time. For maximum flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours in the refrigerator before cooking. This allows the flavors of the cilantro, lime, and other seasonings to penetrate the chicken.
Fresh Ingredients. Use fresh cilantro and freshly squeezed lime juice for the best flavor. Avoid using bottled lime juice, as it may lack the freshness and brightness of freshly squeezed lime juice.
Uniform Thickness. Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness using a meat mallet or the back of a skillet. This ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and prevents dry spots.

Variations

Here are some delicious variations for cilantro lime chicken to add variety to your meals:

Spicy- Add some heat to your marinade by including minced jalapeños or serrano peppers. You can also mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
Honey Lime- Create a sweet and tangy marinade by adding honey to the cilantro lime mixture. The honey adds a caramelized flavor and helps to balance the acidity of the lime.
Coconut- For a tropical twist, substitute coconut milk for some of the lime juice in the marinade. The coconut milk adds creaminess and a hint of sweetness to the chicken.

What To Serve With Cilantro Lime Chicken

When serving Cilantro Lime Chicken, you'll want to complement its vibrant flavors with side dishes that enhance its zesty profile. Here are some delicious options to consider:

Cilantro Lime Rice- Prepare a batch of fluffy rice flavored with fresh cilantro and lime zest for a perfect pairing that echoes the flavors of the chicken.
Grilled Vegetables- Fire up the grill and cook an assortment of colorful vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, and onions. The charred smokiness of the veggies pairs beautifully with the citrusy chicken.
Avocado Salad- Create a refreshing avocado salad with ripe avocados, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and a drizzle of lime juice and olive oil. The creamy avocado adds richness to the meal, while the lime brightens up the flavors.

How Long Does It Last?

Cilantro Lime Chicken can typically be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days when placed in an airtight container. It's important to refrigerate the chicken promptly after cooking to prevent bacterial growth.

When reheating Cilantro Lime Chicken, it's best to do so gently to prevent the chicken from becoming dry. You can reheat it in the microwave, oven, or on the stovetop until heated through. Adding a splash of chicken broth or water before reheating can help retain moisture.

Can You Freeze It?

When properly frozen, cilantro lime chicken can last in the freezer for up to 2-3 months without significant loss of quality. To thaw it, transfer it to the refrigerator and allow it to thaw overnight.

More Air Fryer Chicken Recipes

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