Description
Zesty cilantro lime chicken simmers effortlessly in a crockpot, infusing kitchens with irresistible Mexican-inspired aromas. Tender meat bathed in tangy citrus and herbaceous notes promises a simple yet spectacular dinner solution for hungry families.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 pounds (907 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- ½ cup (120 ml) chicken broth
- ⅓ cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 limes (juice)
- 1 lime (zest)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 jalapeno, finely diced (optional, for heat)
- Extra chopped cilantro and lime wedges for serving
Instructions
- Preparation: Nestle chicken into the crockpot base, ensuring even placement.
- Flavor Infusion: Whisk lime juice, zest, chicken broth, olive oil, garlic, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper in a mixing bowl. Gently fold chopped cilantro into the liquid mixture.
- Seasoning Application: Cascade the vibrant marinade over the chicken, allowing jalapenos to distribute evenly if desired.
- Slow Cooking: Secure lid and set crockpot to low temperature for 5-6 hours or high for 2.5-3.5 hours until chicken reaches optimal tenderness and can be effortlessly pulled apart.
- Finishing Technique: Using two forks, delicately shred chicken within the cooking liquid, ensuring each morsel absorbs the rich, zesty flavors.
- Serving Suggestions: Transform the succulent cilantro lime chicken into versatile meal options such as tacos, burrito bowls, crisp lettuce wraps, or serve atop fluffy rice.
Notes
- Adjust chicken broth amount to prevent dry or overly watery chicken, ensuring perfect moisture and tenderness.
- Add fresh chopped cilantro just before serving to maintain vibrant flavor and bright green color.
- Carefully remove jalapeno seeds for milder heat or add extra for spice lovers, tailoring the dish to personal preference.
- Refrigerate cooked chicken in its juices to enhance flavor and maintain moisture when storing or reheating leftovers.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 hours
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 5
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg