If you’re looking for a meal that practically sings with flavor, Cilantro-Lime Chicken and Corn is your answer. This vibrant, skillet-cooked dish brings together juicy chicken breasts bathed in fresh lime and spices, alongside sweet, golden corn for a pop of color and crunch. It’s a weeknight hero that feels special enough for guests, but is so simple and quick you’ll want to make it all the time. The best part? Every bite is a celebration of zesty, herby goodness that’s as beautiful on the plate as it is delicious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients for Cilantro-Lime Chicken and Corn couldn’t be easier, and each one plays a starring role in making this dish truly memorable. From the smoky warmth of paprika to the brightness of lime and cilantro, every element adds its own flair to the final creation.
- Chicken breasts: Choose boneless, skinless pieces for juicy, tender results that soak up the marinade beautifully.
- Olive oil: A must for searing the chicken to golden perfection and keeping everything moist.
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic infuses the whole dish with deep, aromatic flavor.
- Ground cumin: Adds earthy warmth and a subtle, savory complexity.
- Smoked paprika: Gives a gentle smokiness that really elevates the chicken.
- Salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the flavors of every ingredient.
- Black pepper: Offers just the right amount of peppery kick.
- Lime (juice and zest): Delivers a bright, citrusy zing that’s the heart of this dish.
- Fresh cilantro: Chopped cilantro brings a burst of freshness and color at the very end.
- Corn kernels: Sweet and juicy, they add texture and a touch of natural sweetness.
- Chicken broth: Keeps the corn mixture luscious and flavorful while helping deglaze the skillet.
- Butter: A little butter enriches the corn and gives it a silky finish.
- Red pepper flakes (optional): For those who like a gentle touch of heat.
How to Make Cilantro-Lime Chicken and Corn
Step 1: Season the Chicken
Start by patting your chicken breasts dry with paper towels—this helps the spices stick and ensures a great sear. Sprinkle both sides with ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Don’t be shy; this is where the flavor magic begins!
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s shimmering, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook them for 5 to 6 minutes per side, letting them develop a deep golden crust. This not only locks in the juices but also builds a delicious foundation for the sauce. When they’re cooked through, set them aside on a plate.
Step 3: Make the Corn Mixture
In the same skillet, melt the butter and toss in the minced garlic. Let it sizzle for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant. Stir in the corn kernels, chicken broth, lime juice, and zest. Scrape up any browned bits from the pan—that’s pure flavor! Let everything cook together for 4 to 5 minutes, so the corn gets sweet and just a little caramelized.
Step 4: Combine and Finish
Return the chicken to the skillet, nestling it right into the corn. Spoon some of that gorgeous corn mixture over the top. Let everything cook together for another 2 minutes, so the flavors meld and the chicken picks up all that zesty goodness.
Step 5: Add the Final Touches
Sprinkle the fresh chopped cilantro and red pepper flakes (if using) over the whole skillet. The cilantro adds a garden-fresh aroma and a pop of color, while the pepper flakes give a subtle heat that ties everything together. Your Cilantro-Lime Chicken and Corn is ready to serve!
How to Serve Cilantro-Lime Chicken and Corn
Garnishes
For a finishing flourish, garnish your Cilantro-Lime Chicken and Corn with extra lime wedges, a sprinkle of cilantro, and maybe a pinch of flaky sea salt. This not only looks gorgeous but also lets everyone customize their plate with an extra burst of citrus or herbs.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with fluffy rice, quinoa, or warm tortillas to soak up all those bright, zesty juices. A simple green salad or sliced avocado on the side can round out the meal with freshness and a little creamy contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving Cilantro-Lime Chicken and Corn family-style right from the skillet for a rustic, communal vibe. Or, slice the chicken and pile it over the corn on individual plates for a more elegant presentation. Leftovers make fantastic tacos or burrito bowls, too!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Cilantro-Lime Chicken and Corn keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Let the dish cool to room temperature before packing it up, and store the chicken and corn together for maximum flavor.
Freezing
If you want to freeze this dish, cool it completely first. Place the chicken and corn (together or separately) in freezer-safe bags or containers. It will maintain its quality for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the Cilantro-Lime Chicken and Corn in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to keep things moist. You can also microwave individual portions, covering them to prevent drying out.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work wonderfully in Cilantro-Lime Chicken and Corn, offering even more juiciness and a slightly richer flavor.
Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, just swap the butter for an extra drizzle of olive oil, and skip the optional creamy additions. You’ll still get all that zesty, herby flavor without any dairy.
Can I grill the chicken instead of cooking it on the stovetop?
Definitely! Grilling adds a lovely smoky flavor to Cilantro-Lime Chicken and Corn. Just grill the chicken until cooked through, then toss it with the corn mixture as directed.
What’s the best type Main Course
You can use fresh, frozen, or canned corn with great results. If using frozen, no need to thaw—just add a minute or two to the cooking time. Fresh corn will give you the sweetest, crunchiest texture.
How can I make the dish extra creamy?
If you love a richer sauce, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream to the corn mixture before returning the chicken. This simple step takes Cilantro-Lime Chicken and Corn to a whole new level of comfort!
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a meal that’s bold, fresh, and full of sunshine, it’s time to try Cilantro-Lime Chicken and Corn. With its easy preparation and irresistible flavors, this is one recipe you’ll want to keep on repeat. Gather your favorite people and dig in—you’re in for a real treat!
Print
Cilantro-Lime Chicken and Corn Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Cilantro-Lime Chicken and Corn recipe is a vibrant, flavorful dish perfect for an easy weeknight dinner. Tender chicken breasts are seasoned with aromatic spices, seared to golden perfection, and served with a zesty corn skillet infused with fresh lime juice and cilantro. The combination offers a fresh Mexican-inspired taste that’s both satisfying and quick to prepare.
Ingredients
Chicken and Marinade
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Juice and zest of 2 limes
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Corn Mixture
- 2 cups corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry using paper towels. Season both sides evenly with ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper to build a flavorful base.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the seasoned chicken breasts and cook for 5 to 6 minutes per side, until they develop a golden brown crust and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside to rest.
- Sauté the Aromatics and Corn: In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add butter. Once melted, stir in minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds to 1 minute. Add the corn kernels, chicken broth, lime juice, and lime zest. Stir to combine.
- Simmer the Corn Mixture: Allow the corn mixture to cook for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the corn is heated through and slightly caramelized, which enhances the natural sweetness.
- Combine and Finish: Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the corn mixture. Spoon some of the corn over the chicken. Cook together for an additional 2 minutes to meld flavors and reheat the chicken.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle fresh chopped cilantro and red pepper flakes (if using) over the dish before serving to add brightness and a mild kick of heat.
Notes
- For extra creaminess, stir in 1/4 cup heavy cream or sour cream into the corn mixture before returning the chicken to the skillet.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, quinoa, or warm tortillas, making it versatile for different meals.
- For a smoky flavor, consider grilling the chicken instead of pan-searing it.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with corn
- Calories: 340
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 620 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 32 g
- Cholesterol: 115 mg
