Grilled Chicken with Cilantro Sauce
summary
Ever had one of those meals that just pops? This Grilled Chicken with Cilantro Sauce is that! It’s like summer on a plate, and trust me, it’s as fun to make as it is to eat. Here’s the inside scoop on making it.
Ingredients We’ll Need
- 2 chicken breasts that are just waiting to be grilled
- A drizzle or two of olive oil – let’s say, 2 tablespoons (30 ml for those who prefer metric)
- Salt and pepper – just sprinkle to your heart’s content
- Cilantro? Yes, please! Grab a full cup (240 ml, packed tightly)
- Couple cloves of garlic, minced – because what’s a sauce without garlic?
- Juice from a whole lime, for that tang
- Half a cup of Greek yogurt (120 ml, if you’re into exact measures)
- One green chili, but toss the seeds out
- 1/4 cup water (60 ml) to get the consistency just right
Let’s Talk Time
- Getting everything ready: 15 minutes
- Grilling and such: 20 minutes
- From start to munch: 35 minutes
Portion Size
Good for a meal for two. Or one, if you’re really hungry!
Nutritional Info (per plate)
- Calories: 310 (Who’s counting, right?)
- Protein: 28g
- Carbs: 5g (Yep, that low)
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 2g
- Fat: 20g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 320mg (Not too shabby)
The Main Event: Making Grilled Chicken with Cilantro Sauce
- First off, let’s pamper those chicken breasts with some salt, pepper, and a hint of olive oil. Get them ready for their grill time!
- Fire up your grill to medium-high. While waiting, maybe hum your favorite tune?
- Chicken time! Grill each side for about 7 minutes. Look for those char marks; that’s where the flavor’s at.
- Now, for the sauce – the star of the show! Toss in the cilantro, garlic, lime juice, Greek yogurt, chili, and water into a blender.
- Hit blend and watch the magic happen. Season as you see fit.
- Let your chicken catch its breath for about 5 minutes after grilling.
- Lay down those slices on a plate and be generous with the cilantro sauce.
Some Handy Tips
- Slow and steady wins the grilling race. No dry chicken allowed here!
- Feeling wild? Add an avocado to the sauce mix.
- That sauce? Totally doubles up as a dip or dressing. You’re welcome.
Serving Thoughts
Pair this dish with a light salad or perhaps some roasted veggies. If carbs aren’t the enemy, maybe some zoodles (zucchini noodles). Squeeze a lime wedge over everything before the first bite. Dive in, and enjoy!
FAQS
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Definitely! Chicken thighs can be juicier and more flavorful. Just adjust the grilling time to ensure they’re fully cooked.
2. Any suggestions for an olive oil substitute?
While olive oil adds a distinct flavor, you can also use avocado oil or canola oil for grilling.
3. How can I make the cilantro sauce creamier?
Adding an avocado or using full-fat Greek yogurt can give the sauce a richer and creamier texture.
4. What if I don’t have a grill?
No worries! You can use a grill pan on your stove, or even broil the chicken in your oven. Just ensure it’s cooked through.
5. How spicy is the sauce with the green chili?
The spice level is moderate, but you can adjust by adding more or less chili. Removing the seeds will also reduce the heat.
6. Can I store the leftover cilantro sauce?
Certainly! Keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s great for salads or as a dip.
7. What side dishes pair best with this chicken?
While light salads and roasted veggies are suggested, this chicken pairs well with quinoa, rice, or even a potato salad.
8. Can the sauce be made ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the cilantro sauce a day ahead. Just give it a good stir or shake before using.
9. Is there an alternative to Greek yogurt for a dairy-free sauce?
Absolutely! You can use dairy-free yogurt, coconut milk, or even soaked cashews blended until smooth.
10. How do I know when my chicken is perfectly grilled?
A meat thermometer is your best friend. Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to be safe to eat.
Grilled Chicken with Cilantro Sauce
Nutritions
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts that are just waiting to be grilled
- A drizzle or two of olive oil – let’s say 2 tablespoons (30 ml for those who prefer metric)
- Salt and pepper – just sprinkle to your heart’s content
- Cilantro? Yes please! Grab a full cup (240 ml, packed tightly)
- Couple cloves of garlic minced – because what’s a sauce without garlic?
- Juice from a whole lime for that tang
- Half a cup of Greek yogurt 120 ml, if you’re into exact measures
- One green chili but toss the seeds out
- ¼ cup water 60 ml to get the consistency just right
Instructions
- First off, let’s pamper those chicken breasts with some salt, pepper, and a hint of olive oil. Get them ready for their grill time!
- Fire up your grill to medium-high. While waiting, maybe hum your favorite tune?
- Chicken time! Grill each side for about 7 minutes. Look for those char marks; that’s where the flavor’s at.
- Now, for the sauce – the star of the show! Toss in the cilantro, garlic, lime juice, Greek yogurt, chili, and water into a blender.
- Hit blend and watch the magic happen. Season as you see fit.
- Let your chicken catch its breath for about 5 minutes after grilling.
- Lay down those slices on a plate and be generous with the cilantro sauce.
Notes
Feeling wild? Add an avocado to the sauce mix.
That sauce? Totally doubles up as a dip or dressing. You’re welcome. Pair this dish with a light salad or perhaps some roasted veggies. If carbs aren’t the enemy, maybe some zoodles (zucchini noodles). Squeeze a lime wedge over everything before the first bite. Dive in, and enjoy!
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