Easy Cilantro Lime Grilled Chicken with Avocado Salsa

Ingredients

• 4 piecesBoneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoonsOlive oil
• 3 tablespoonsLime juice
• 0.3 cupFresh cilantro, chopped
• 2 clovesGarlic, minced
• 1 teaspoonGround cumin
• 0.8 teaspoonSalt
• 0.5 teaspoonBlack pepper
• 3 mediumRipe avocados, diced
• 0.3 cupRed onion, finely diced
• 1 smallJalapeno, seeded and minced (optional)
• 0.3 cupFresh cilantro, chopped
• 2 tablespoonsLime juice
• 0.3 teaspoonSalt
• 0.5 cupCherry tomatoes, halved (optional)

Instructions

1. 1

   Pound chicken breasts to an even 1/2-inch thickness for quicker, more uniform cooking. In a shallow dish or resealable bag, combine the olive oil, 3 tablespoons lime juice, 1/4 cup chopped cilantro, minced garlic, cumin, 3/4 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper. Add the chicken breasts and turn to coat completely. Marinate for at least 15 minutes at room temperature, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.

   ⏱ 15 min
2. 2

   While the chicken marinates, prepare the avocado salsa. In a medium bowl, gently combine the diced avocados, finely diced red onion, minced jalapeno (if using), 1/4 cup chopped cilantro, 2 tablespoons lime juice, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. If using, add the halved cherry tomatoes. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Set aside.

   ⏱ 10 min
3. 3

   Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking. Remove the chicken from the marinade, discarding any excess. Place chicken on the hot grill.

   ⏱ 5 min
4. 4

   Grill chicken for 4-6 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and chicken is cooked through with nice grill marks. Cooking time will vary based on thickness.

   ⏱ 12 min
5. 5

   Remove the grilled chicken from the heat and let it rest on a cutting board for 5 minutes before slicing. This helps retain the juices and keeps the chicken tender.

   ⏱ 5 min
6. 6

   Serve the sliced cilantro lime grilled chicken immediately, topped generously with the fresh avocado salsa. Enjoy!