If you’re looking for a dish that bursts with vibrant flavors and captures the spirit of a sunny day, Cilantro-Lime Chicken and Corn is a recipe you’ll want to make again and again. This colorful main course pairs juicy marinated chicken, sweet golden corn, and a punchy hit of fresh lime and cilantro, creating a meal that’s both effortless and impressive. Whether you’re serving a crowd or enjoying a cozy dinner at home, every bite is a celebration of bold, zesty—and downright delicious—flavors.

Cilantro-Lime Chicken and Corn Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the best things about Cilantro-Lime Chicken and Corn is how a handful of accessible, wholesome ingredients transform into something so satisfying. Each element brings its own personality—bright, smoky, sweet, or fresh—to the dish, making it a true feast for both the palate and the eyes.

Chicken Thighs or Breasts: Tender, juicy protein that soaks up all the flavors of the marinade; thighs add extra richness, but breasts work just as beautifully.
Olive Oil: Gives moisture to the marinade and helps everything caramelize to golden perfection.
Lime Juice and Zest: The star for tangy, fresh citrus flavor—using both juice and zest really wakes up the whole dish.
Garlic: Adds a mellow but assertive savory note that ties together the herbs and spices.
Ground Cumin: Offers deep, earthy undertones that feel classic in any Mexican-inspired recipe.
Chili Powder: Brings a gentle kick and smokiness without overpowering the lemony-lime taste.
Salt: Essential for drawing out all those wonderful flavors in both chicken and corn.
Black Pepper: For a little, subtle heat that complements rather than competes.
Corn Kernels: Sweet, juicy bursts throughout—feel free to use fresh, frozen, or even canned for convenience.
Fresh Cilantro: The namesake herb for that signature herby aroma and a touch of leafy green color.
Butter (optional): Adds richness to the corn and helps achieve that skillet-roasted flavor.
Lime Wedges: A final squeeze or two brightens and finishes every plate beautifully.

How to Make Cilantro-Lime Chicken and Corn

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a large bowl, whisk together your olive oil, freshly squeezed lime juice (plus that wonderfully fragrant zest!), minced garlic, cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Add your chicken pieces, ensuring every inch is coated, and let them marinate—thirty minutes is great, but a few hours in the fridge will reward you with even more depth of flavor. This simple soak infuses the chicken with all the hallmark notes of Cilantro-Lime Chicken and Corn.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Preheat your grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat until it’s good and hot. Lay the marinated chicken on the surface and let it sizzle, resisting the urge to move it so a lovely golden crust forms. Cook for about 6–7 minutes per side, adjusting as needed depending on thickness, until the chicken is cooked through and deeply browned in spots. Rest the chicken on a plate, covered loosely, to let the juices redistribute and stay succulent.

Step 3: Sauté the Corn

In the very same pan (don’t wipe out those flavorful browned bits!), add a tablespoon of butter if you like it extra rich. Stir in your corn kernels and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 3–4 minutes. The aim is lightly charred, juicy kernels that get a gentle toasty flavor—plus, the golden color pops beautifully on the plate.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

Slice the rested chicken into strips and nestle them on top of your golden corn in the skillet or on a serving platter. Shower everything with fresh chopped cilantro and serve alongside extra lime wedges. This is the moment where Cilantro-Lime Chicken and Corn really shines—every element on the plate is bright, aromatic, and absolutely mouthwatering.

How to Serve Cilantro-Lime Chicken and Corn

Garnishes

A generous scattering of fresh cilantro leaves and a few juicy lime wedges add color, brightness, and that unmistakable fresh finish. If you want to take it up a notch, crumble on cotija cheese or add slices of ripe avocado for even more creaminess and flavor.

Side Dishes

Cilantro-Lime Chicken and Corn is super flexible. Serve it over fluffy rice, nutty quinoa, or scoop it into warm tortillas for a festive taco night. A crisp side salad or smoky black beans also make excellent companions, rounding things out with extra color and freshness.

Creative Ways to Present

For an eye-catching twist, try making individual bowls with the chicken, corn, and your favorite toppings—think pickled onions, radishes, or a swipe of creamy yogurt sauce. If you’re hosting, let guests build their own tacos or rice bowls at the table so everyone can personalize their perfect plate of Cilantro-Lime Chicken and Corn.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Cilantro-Lime Chicken and Corn keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. The flavors meld even more overnight, making lunch the next day just as exciting as the first round.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, freeze the cooked chicken and corn separately in airtight bags or containers for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator for easy meal prep down the road.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the chicken and corn gently in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of water or a bit of oil to help prevent drying out. Microwaving also works in a pinch—just cover loosely and heat in short bursts, stirring in between, until warmed through.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Absolutely! Both boneless skinless chicken thighs and breasts work well in this recipe—thighs are more forgiving and stay extra juicy, while breasts make for a leaner option. Just keep an eye on cooking time so they don’t dry out.

What’s the best way to get a good char on the corn?

Using a hot skillet and letting the corn sit undisturbed for a minute or two before stirring is the secret to getting those lovely browned, slightly smoky bits that make Cilantro-Lime Chicken and Corn so special.

Can I make Cilantro-Lime Chicken and Corn ahead for a party?

You sure can! Marinate your chicken up to a day ahead, then cook just before serving. You can also cook everything in advance, store it separately, and reheat gently just before your guests arrive.

How spicy is this dish?

The recipe has a gentle warmth from chili powder, but it’s generally mild. If you love spice, add a pinch of cayenne or serve with your favorite hot sauce alongside your Cilantro-Lime Chicken and Corn.

Is Cilantro-Lime Chicken and Corn gluten free?

Yes, it’s naturally gluten free as written, making it an excellent choice for gluten-sensitive friends and family without any need for modification.

Final Thoughts

If you love meals that are easy, vibrant, and bursting with fresh flavors, you owe it to yourself to try Cilantro-Lime Chicken and Corn. This is one of those recipes that turns a handful of familiar ingredients into something truly memorable—perfect for weeknights, parties, or anytime you crave a little taste of sunshine on your plate.

Cilantro-Lime Chicken and Corn Recipe

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4.7 from 24 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 35 minutes (active)
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

A flavorful and easy recipe for Cilantro-Lime Chicken and Corn that’s perfect for a quick and delicious meal. Tender marinated chicken paired with charred corn and zesty lime make this dish a winner.

Ingredients

Scale

Marinade:

1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
juice and zest of 2 limes
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Additional Ingredients:

3 cups corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
1 tablespoon butter (optional)
lime wedges for serving

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Instructions

Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine olive oil, lime juice and zest, garlic, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Add chicken and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
Cook the Chicken: Cook marinated chicken in a skillet or grill pan for 6–7 minutes per side until cooked through and browned. Let rest.
Prepare the Corn: In the same pan, add butter and cook corn for 3–4 minutes until charred and heated through.
Serve: Slice the chicken, serve over corn, and garnish with cilantro. Serve with lime wedges.