Creamy Cilantro Lime Chicken

Creamy cilantro lime chicken is a flavorful skillet dish featuring juicy, pan-seared chicken breasts smothered in a rich, tangy cream sauce infused with fresh cilantro, garlic, and lime. It’s a vibrant, zesty entrée perfect for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish offers a bright citrus punch balanced by a creamy, herbaceous sauce. It’s ready in under an hour, full of flavor, and pairs beautifully with rice, vegetables, or low-carb sides. Plus, it’s made all in one skillet.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• Salt & black pepper
• Olive oil or butter
• Garlic cloves, minced
• Chicken broth
• Heavy cream
• Fresh lime juice
• Lime zest
• Fresh cilantro, chopped
• Ground cumin (optional)
• Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

directions

1. Season chicken with salt and pepper.

2. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat. Sear chicken on both sides until golden brown and cooked through (about 6–8 minutes per side). Remove and set aside.

3. Lower heat and sauté garlic until fragrant (about 1 minute).

4. Add chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the pan.

5. Stir in heavy cream, lime juice, zest, and cumin (if using). Let simmer for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.

6. Return chicken to the skillet and spoon sauce over top.

7. Simmer for another 3–5 minutes until heated through.

8. Finish with chopped cilantro and serve immediately.

Servings and timing

Yield: 4 servings
Prep time: ~10 minutes; Cook time: ~25 minutes; Total time: ~35 minutes
(Timing sourced from standard cilantro lime chicken recipes at cookingclassy.com, cafedelites.com, and eatingwell.com)

Variations

• Add spinach or kale to the sauce for a nutritional boost.
• Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream for a dairy-free version.
• Add sliced jalapeños for extra spice.
• Use bone-in chicken thighs for deeper flavor and moisture.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to maintain the sauce’s consistency. Avoid overheating to prevent curdling.

FAQs

Can I use bottled lime juice?

Fresh lime juice is preferred, but bottled can work in a pinch. Adjust the quantity to taste.

Is this recipe spicy?

Not inherently, but crushed red pepper flakes or jalapeños can be added for heat.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes—thighs are juicier and work well in this dish.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, provided all individual ingredients are gluten-free.

Can I freeze it?

Freezing is not recommended as the cream sauce may separate upon thawing.

What sides go best with it?

Serve with rice, cauliflower rice, roasted potatoes, or steamed vegetables.

Can I make it lighter?

Yes—use half-and-half or light cream, though the sauce may be slightly thinner.

Can I use dried cilantro?

Fresh cilantro is best for flavor and color. Dried cilantro lacks the same impact.

Can I make this ahead?

Yes—prepare and refrigerate. Reheat gently before serving.

How do I thicken the sauce?

Let it simmer uncovered or stir in a small amount of cornstarch slurry if needed.

Conclusion

Creamy Cilantro Lime Chicken is a bright, herbaceous, and creamy dish that transforms everyday chicken into a flavorful, satisfying meal. Its quick prep, fresh ingredients, and restaurant-worthy taste make it an ideal addition to any dinner rotation.

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