Creamy Cilantro Lime Chicken

If you’re craving a flavorful, one-pan dinner that combines the perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and spicy, this creamy cilantro lime chicken recipe is the ideal dish to add to your weekly rotation. Tender chicken breasts simmered in a rich sauce made with lime juice, cilantro, and a touch of heat from red pepper flakes, all come together effortlessly for a meal that’s bursting with flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This creamy cilantro lime chicken is the perfect mix of savory, zesty, and creamy, making it a crowd-pleaser every time. The sauce is rich and flavorful, with the tanginess from lime and the kick from red pepper flakes, while the chicken remains tender and juicy. Plus, it’s a one-pan recipe, meaning you get minimal cleanup, and the entire meal comes together in just 40 minutes. Whether you serve it with rice, salad, or vegetables, this dish will quickly become a favorite.

Ingredients

• 1.5 pounds (24 ounces/680g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 and 1/2 cups (360ml) chicken broth (I recommend reduced sodium)

• 3 tablespoons (45ml) fresh lime juice

• 1/2 cup (60g) chopped red onion

• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro

• 1/2–1 teaspoon red pepper flakes* (adjust to your spice preference)

• 1/3 cup (5 tablespoons/80ml) heavy cream*

• 1/4 cup (4 tablespoons/56g) unsalted butter

• Optional: lime wedges and more cilantro for garnish

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). If the chicken breasts are uneven in thickness, pound them down so they are of even thickness. This will help them cook through evenly. Sprinkle both sides with salt and pepper.

2. In a large ovenproof skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 6–7 minutes, turning once, until the chicken is browned on the outside (it does not need to be fully cooked at this stage). Transfer the chicken to a plate and cover with foil.

3. Remove the skillet from the heat and add the chicken broth, lime juice, chopped onion, cilantro, and red pepper flakes. Return to heat and bring to a boil. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet as you stir. Allow the mixture to boil, uncovered, for 10–12 minutes, until the liquid is reduced to about 1/2 cup.

4. Lower the heat to medium-low and stir in the heavy cream and butter. Continue stirring until the butter is fully melted, then remove the skillet from the heat.

5. Add the chicken back to the skillet and turn it once to coat both sides in the sauce. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake uncovered for 5–10 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature should be at least 165°F or 74°C).

6. Serve the chicken with the sauce spooned on top, and garnish with lime wedges and extra cilantro, if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep time: 30 minutes

• Cook time: 10 minutes

• Total time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Dairy-Free: For a dairy-free version, swap the heavy cream for coconut cream and use coconut oil in place of butter.

• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes based on your preferred spice level. For a milder version, reduce the amount of flakes, or omit them entirely.

• Substitute Chicken: If you prefer, you can use chicken thighs or tenders instead of breasts for a juicier option.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.

• Reheating: Reheat the chicken on the stovetop over medium heat, in the microwave, or in the oven until warmed through. If reheating on the stove, you can add a little more chicken broth or cream to ensure the sauce remains creamy.

FAQs

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). An instant-read thermometer is the best way to check for doneness.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

While this recipe is best enjoyed fresh, you can make the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge. When ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce and cook the chicken.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work well in this recipe. They may need a slightly longer cooking time due to their thicker nature, but they will still result in a tender and flavorful dish.

What can I serve with creamy cilantro lime chicken?

This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, quinoa, a green salad, or roasted vegetables. It also works well with a side of tortillas or crispy bread for soaking up the creamy sauce.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze the chicken with sauce in an airtight container for up to 2–3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

What if I don’t have fresh cilantro?

If you don’t have fresh cilantro, you can use dried cilantro as a substitute, although the flavor will be less vibrant. Alternatively, you can leave it out altogether and still enjoy a delicious dish.

How spicy is this recipe?

The recipe calls for red pepper flakes, which add mild heat. If you prefer a spicier dish, feel free to increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add some chopped fresh jalapeños to the sauce.

Can I substitute the heavy cream with something lighter?

If you prefer a lighter version, you can use whole milk or half-and-half instead of heavy cream. However, the sauce won’t be as rich and creamy.

How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?

To avoid curdling, make sure to use room-temperature cream or milk and cook the sauce over medium-low heat. If you’re using milk, avoid bringing it to a full boil.

Can I use lime zest in this recipe?

Yes, lime zest can be a great addition to enhance the lime flavor in the dish. Add about 1–2 teaspoons of lime zest along with the lime juice for an extra burst of citrus.

Conclusion

Creamy cilantro lime chicken is an easy yet delicious dish that will elevate any dinner table. With just a few simple ingredients, this one-pan meal delivers big flavors in no time. Whether you’re feeding your family or serving guests, this dish is sure to impress with its creamy sauce, zesty lime, and tender chicken. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges for the perfect finishing touch!