Are you ready to elevate your dinner game with a tantalizing dish that bursts with flavor? Look no further than our Mustard Garlic and Lime Marinated Chicken Breasts! This simple yet delectable recipe combines the zesty tang of lime, the robust depth of garlic, and the smoothness of Dijon mustard, creating a marinade that infuses every bite with mouthwatering goodness. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, this dish promises to impress your family and friends. Trust us, once you try this recipe, it will become a staple in your kitchen. So, let’s dive in and discover how to make this culinary delight!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice of 2 limes
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together Dijon mustard, minced garlic, fresh lime juice, olive oil, salt, and black pepper until well combined to create a marinade.
- Place chicken breasts in a large resealable plastic bag or shallow dish, then pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated.
- Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for 30 minutes to 2 hours to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat. Do not marinate longer than 2 hours, as the acid from lime juice can start to break down the chicken's texture.
- Preheat your grill, grill pan, or skillet to medium-high heat. If using an outdoor grill, ensure grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.
- Remove chicken from marinade, letting excess drip off. Discard the remaining marinade to prevent cross-contamination.
- Cook chicken breasts for 6-8 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when checked with a meat thermometer.
- Remove from heat and let chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute, ensuring moist and flavorful meat.
- Optional: Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or cilantro and serve with lime wedges for additional brightness.
Tips
- Marinate Wisely: For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but don’t exceed 2 hours. The lime juice adds a fantastic zing, but too much time can alter the texture of the chicken.
- Temperature Check: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This guarantees it's cooked through while remaining juicy and tender.
- Preheat Your Grill: Whether you're using a grill, grill pan, or skillet, make sure it’s preheated to medium-high heat. This helps achieve those beautiful grill marks and prevents sticking.
- Let It Rest: After cooking, allow your chicken to rest for about 5 minutes. This step is crucial as it lets the juices redistribute, resulting in a more flavorful and moist chicken.
- Garnish for Extra Flavor: Consider garnishing your dish with fresh chopped parsley or cilantro, and serve with lime wedges. It adds a pop of color and enhances the overall flavor profile!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 2g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 95mg
