Introduction

This Crispy Cilantro Lime Chicken recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavor with a perfect golden crust and juicy, tender meat. The chicken is marinated in a bright, zesty cilantro-lime mixture, then coated in a crispy panko-parmesan crust that bakes or air fries to perfection.

What makes this dish special is its vibrant flavor profile – the freshness of cilantro, tang of lime, and savory garlic combine to create a chicken that’s anything but boring. The crispy exterior gives way to succulent, flavorful meat that works equally well as a main dish, salad topper, or taco filling.

Recipe: Crispy Cilantro Lime Chicken

Ingredients

For the Marinade:

• 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp honey
• 1/2 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

For the Breading:

• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp lime zest
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp salt

Additional:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
• 1 egg, beaten
• Cooking spray

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken:

1. In a bowl, whisk together lime juice, cilantro, garlic, olive oil, honey, cumin, salt and pepper.
2. Place chicken between plastic wrap and pound to even 1/2-inch thickness.
3. Add chicken to marinade, coating well. Cover and refrigerate 30 minutes (up to 4 hours).

2. Prepare the Breading:

1. In a shallow dish, mix panko, parmesan, lime zest, garlic powder and salt.

3. Bread the Chicken:

1. Remove chicken from marinade (discard excess).
2. Dip each piece in beaten egg, then press firmly into panko mixture to coat.
3. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

4. Cook the Chicken:
Oven Method:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Spray chicken lightly with cooking spray.
3. Bake 18-22 minutes until golden and internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Air Fryer Method:

1. Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook in batches for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway.

5. Serve:

• Let rest 5 minutes before slicing.
• Garnish with extra cilantro and lime wedges.

Serving Suggestions

• As a main dish with cilantro lime rice and roasted vegetables
• In tacos with slaw and avocado crema
• On salads with a citrus vinaigrette
• Meal prep – stays crispy when reheated in air fryer

Tips for Success

✔ Pound chicken evenly for consistent cooking
✔ Press breading firmly for best adherence
✔ Don’t skip the lime zest – it adds bright flavor
✔ Use fresh lime juice for best results
✔ For extra crispiness, broil 1-2 minutes at the end

This Crispy Cilantro Lime Chicken offers a healthier alternative to fried chicken without sacrificing any crunch or flavor. The fresh, zesty marinade keeps the chicken moist while the panko-parmesan crust delivers satisfying texture. It’s a versatile recipe that works for everything from weeknight dinners to entertaining guests.