If you’ve ever wanted to wow your friends with a dish that brings together vibrant, fresh flavors and a little spicy kick, then this Cilantro Lime Grilled Chicken with Strawberry-Jalapeño Salsa Recipe is your new go-to. Imagine juicy, tender grilled chicken infused with tangy lime and bright cilantro, perfectly complemented by a colorful salsa that dances on your taste buds with sweet strawberries and a cheeky hint of jalapeño heat. It’s the ultimate way to turn a simple dinner into a delightful celebration of tastes and textures.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for straightforward, fresh ingredients that each play a starring role in creating a balanced and exciting flavor profile. From the zesty lime to the sweet strawberries and punchy jalapeño, every component adds its own special touch, making the chicken irresistibly delicious and the salsa wonderfully fresh.
- 2 limes (zested and juiced): Brings brightness and acidity that lifts the dish.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds richness and helps marinate the chicken.
- 1 teaspoon honey: A subtle sweetness that balances the tangy lime.
- ½ cup fresh cilantro leaves (finely chopped): Infuses the meal with herbaceous freshness.
- 4 thinly sliced boneless skinless chicken breasts: The main protein, tenderized for quick grilling.
- Kosher Salt: Essential for seasoning and enhancing flavors.
- Coarse Black Pepper: Adds mild heat and complexity.
- 2 cups diced strawberries: Sweetness and juiciness that contrast the spicy salsa.
- 1 jalapeño (seeded and finely chopped): Brings a smoky, spicy kick without overpowering the dish.
- ¼ cup plus 1 tablespoon minced red onion: Adds crunch and sharpness to balance the salsa.
- 1½ tablespoons finely chopped cilantro: More herbal brightness for the salsa.
- ½ lime (juiced): Finishing acidity to elevate the salsa flavors.
How to Make Cilantro Lime Grilled Chicken with Strawberry-Jalapeño Salsa Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
Start by whisking together the lime zest, lime juice, olive oil, honey, finely chopped cilantro, and a pinch of salt in a shallow baking dish. This honey-lime cilantro marinade is bursting with vibrant flavors that tenderize the chicken while layering in brightness and sweetness. Set this aside to work its magic in the next step.
Step 2: Pound the Chicken
Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound them to about half an inch thickness. This step is not just about even cooking; it’s therapeutic! By tenderizing the chicken, you make sure every bite will be juicy and cooked perfectly through, giving that mouthwatering texture we’re after.
Step 3: Marinate the Chicken
Place the pounded chicken breasts in the marinade, making sure each piece is fully coated. Press plastic wrap directly onto the surface to keep the chicken moist and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes. If you’re pressed for time, 20 minutes will do, but letting it soak longer deepens the flavors and gives an even juicier result.
Step 4: Make the Strawberry-Jalapeño Salsa
While the chicken chills in its marinade, combine diced strawberries, finely chopped jalapeño, red onion, extra cilantro, and lime juice in a medium bowl. Mix gently with a fork to keep the strawberries from getting mushy. Season with salt to taste and cover until you’re ready to serve. This salsa is vibrant, fresh, and a perfect balance of sweet heat and citrus zing.
Step 5: Grill the Chicken
Heat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat and lightly oil the surface. Remove the chicken from the marinade and pat each piece dry to get a nice sear. Season the chicken generously with kosher salt and coarse black pepper on both sides. Grill for about 3½ minutes per side, or until grill marks develop and the chicken is cooked through but still juicy.
Step 6: Serve
Remove the chicken from the grill and plate it up. Spoon the bright, colorful strawberry-jalapeño salsa generously over each breast for a gorgeous presentation that bursts with flavor. Now it’s time to enjoy all those fresh, lively tastes you’ve created.
How to Serve Cilantro Lime Grilled Chicken with Strawberry-Jalapeño Salsa Recipe
Garnishes
For a finishing touch, sprinkle extra chopped cilantro or thin lime wedges on top. You could also add a few avocado slices for creaminess that perfectly offsets the spicy salsa. These garnishes aren’t just pretty—they add layers of freshness and richness that take the dish even higher.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with light, summery sides. Think fluffy cilantro-lime rice or a crisp mixed green salad with a citrus vinaigrette. Grilled corn on the cob, roasted sweet potatoes, or even quinoa salad with black beans and corn would round things out for a deliciously satisfying meal.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to mix things up, try slicing the grilled chicken and serving it on warm tortillas for tacos topped with the strawberry-jalapeño salsa and a dollop of sour cream. Or, turn it into a vibrant salad with mixed greens, avocado, and maybe a sprinkle of toasted pepitas for crunch. The possibilities are endless and always delicious!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Cilantro Lime Grilled Chicken with Strawberry-Jalapeño Salsa Recipe should be stored in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The chicken stays juicy and flavorful for up to 3 days, while the salsa tastes best within 24 to 48 hours to keep the strawberries fresh and vibrant.
Freezing
You can freeze the grilled chicken separately for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in foil or place it in a freezer-safe bag. It’s best to freeze the salsa separately in a sealed container, as the strawberries’ texture may change after thawing. Use the salsa fresh if possible for the best experience.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the chicken in a skillet or oven until just heated through—avoid overcooking to keep it tender. Serve the salsa cold or at room temperature for that fresh, lively contrast that makes this recipe so special.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
Yes, but make sure to fully thaw the chicken first for even marinating and grilling. Pounding the chicken will also help tenderize any tougher frozen meat texture.
How spicy is the strawberry-jalapeño salsa?
The salsa has a gentle, approachable heat from the jalapeño that is balanced by the sweetness of the strawberries. If you prefer it milder, simply remove the seeds or reduce the jalapeño amount.
Can I make this recipe without a grill?
Absolutely! A grill pan or even a regular skillet works wonderfully. Just heat the pan well and cook the chicken until nicely seared and cooked through to keep those juicy flavors locked in.
What’s a good substitute for fresh cilantro if I don’t like it?
Fresh parsley can be a great alternative, offering a similar herbaceous note without the distinctive cilantro flavor. You can also try fresh basil or mint for a fresh twist.
Is this recipe good for meal prep?
Definitely! This dish holds up well for next-day lunches or dinners. Just keep the salsa and chicken separate until serving to preserve the fresh textures.
Final Thoughts
I’m so excited for you to try this Cilantro Lime Grilled Chicken with Strawberry-Jalapeño Salsa Recipe because it’s such a fresh, flavorful way to elevate your weeknight dinners or impress at your next cookout. The balance of sweet, tangy, and spicy flavors is downright addictive, and it’s surprisingly easy to make with simple ingredients. Grab those fresh strawberries and limes and get ready to turn your dinner into a memorable feast!
Print
Cilantro Lime Grilled Chicken with Strawberry-Jalapeño Salsa Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 14 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This vibrant Cilantro Lime Grilled Chicken with Strawberry-Jalapeño Salsa is a perfect balance of tangy, sweet, and spicy flavors. Tender grilled chicken breasts are marinated in a zesty lime and cilantro mixture, grilled to perfection, and served alongside a fresh, colorful salsa made of strawberries, jalapeño, and red onion. Ideal for a light, refreshing dinner or summer gathering.
Ingredients
Marinade and Chicken
- 2 limes (zested and juiced)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon honey
- ½ cup fresh cilantro leaves (finely chopped)
- 4 thinly sliced boneless skinless chicken breasts
- Kosher Salt, to taste
- Coarse Black Pepper, to taste
Strawberry-Jalapeño Salsa
- 2 cups diced strawberries
- 1 jalapeño (seeded and finely chopped)
- ¼ cup plus 1 tablespoon minced red onion
- 1½ tablespoons finely chopped cilantro
- ½ lime (juiced)
- Kosher Salt, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare Marinade: In a shallow baking dish, whisk together the lime zest, lime juice, olive oil, honey, finely chopped cilantro, and a pinch of kosher salt until well combined. Set aside briefly.
- Pound Chicken: Place each chicken breast between two pieces of plastic wrap. Using a rolling pin or meat tenderizer, pound the chicken until it is about ½-inch thick. This helps the chicken cook evenly and absorb the marinade better.
- Marinate Chicken: Lay the pounded chicken breasts in the baking dish with the marinade, ensuring each piece is fully coated. Press plastic wrap against the chicken’s surface and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes to allow flavors to penetrate.
- Prepare Salsa: While the chicken marinates, combine diced strawberries, seeded and chopped jalapeño, minced red onion, chopped cilantro, lime juice from half a lime, and a pinch of kosher salt in a medium bowl. Gently mix with a fork to keep strawberries intact. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.
- Heat Grill: Preheat a clean grill or grill pan over medium-high heat, lightly oiling the surface to prevent sticking.
- Season Chicken: Remove chicken from marinade and pat dry with paper towels. Season both sides with kosher salt and coarse black pepper to taste.
- Grill Chicken: Place chicken breasts on the hot grill or grill pan. Cook for about 3½ minutes per side, until grill marks develop and the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F / 74°C).
- Serve: Remove grilled chicken to a serving plate. Spoon fresh strawberry-jalapeño salsa over or alongside the chicken and enjoy immediately.
Notes
- Marinating the chicken longer than 20 minutes, up to 2 hours, will deepen the flavor.
- Adjust jalapeño quantity for desired spiciness in the salsa.
- Ensure chicken is thin and evenly pounded for consistent grilling and tenderness.
- Use fresh, ripe strawberries for best flavor in the salsa.
- Can be served with rice, tortillas, or salad as a full meal.
