Marinade Chicken with Lime and Garlic

This marinade chicken recipe delivers bold flavor and juicy, tender results every time. With a zesty lime-garlic marinade and sweet-savory balance, it's perfect for grilling, oven-roasting, or stovetop searing. A foolproof favorite for weeknight meals or weekend BBQs.

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 15

Total Time 25

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner, LUNCH, Main Course

Cuisine: American, ASIAN

Calories: 280

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

For the Marinade

4 boneless chicken breasts or thighs 600–750g total, skinless and trimmed
1 lime, zested
4 tablespoons fresh lime juice from 1–2 limes
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 tablespoons light brown sugar
¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 tablespoons fresh cilantro optional, chopped
1 tablespoon fish sauce or 2 tbsp soy sauce

For Cooking

1–2 tablespoons olive oil for pan or grill

Method

Flatten chicken breasts to ⅔ inch thickness for even cooking.
In a bowl, whisk lime zest, lime juice, garlic, brown sugar, pepper, olive oil, cilantro, and fish sauce or soy sauce until sugar dissolves.
Place chicken in a zip-top bag or dish. Pour marinade over it, seal, and refrigerate for 12 to 24 hours. Do not exceed 48 hours.
Remove chicken from marinade and let rest at room temperature for 15 minutes.
Stovetop: Cook in oiled skillet over medium-high for 3 mins per side, until golden and internal temp reaches 165°F (75°C).
Grill: Preheat and brush grill with oil. Cook chicken 3 mins per side until done.
Oven: Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 15 mins. Broil 3 mins for caramelization. Ensure internal temp reaches 165°F.

Notes

Double soy sauce for a fish sauce substitute. Add chili flakes or sriracha for spice. This marinade also works with pork or tofu. Marinate then freeze for meal prep. Reheat cooked chicken gently to retain moisture.