Cilantro Lime Chicken!
One of our favorite summer time meals is cilantro lime chicken on the grill. I found a whole chicken in the freezer and decided to make an oven roasted version! It was juicy, tender and full of flavor! A new addition to the permanent menu!
Ingredients-
1 whole chicken, remove the giblets bag from the chicken cavity
Stuff the chicken cavity with-
1 whole garlic bulb, cut in half (leave peel on)
1 orange, cut in half
1 lime, cut in half
1 bunch fresh cilantro or or 2-3 tbsp dried cilantro
1 tbsp rosemary leaves
1/2 stick of butter
Place around the chicken-
2-3 carrots, cut into chunks
2-3 celery stalks, cut into chunks
1 orange bell pepper, cut into chunks
15-20 small red potatoes
1 tbsp olive oil
Sprinkle of each seasoning:
(Abut 1 tsp)
Garlic powder
Onion powder
Cilantro
Old Bay Seasoning
Paprika
Kosher salt
Directions-
Rinse the chicken under cold water.and pat dry with a paper towel. Place the chicken, breast side up, in a 9"x13" baking dish.
Put the garlic, herbs, citrus and butter in the chicken cavity. Using a piece of string tie the legs together. Arrange carrots, celery, bell peppers and potatoes around the chicken. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken skin, and veggies. Generously sprinkle each seasoning over the chicken and veggies.
Preheat the oven to 350°F. Place the chicken in the oven and roast for 1 1/2 to 2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes to seal the juices in.
Carve the chicken, serve with the veggies and a side of rice or noodles, and enjoy!
Cilantro lime chicken is a favorite summer dish that can easily be made in the oven for those who prefer indoor cooking. To enhance its flavor, marinating the chicken overnight with cilantro, lime juice, and spices is recommended. Not only does this method infuse the meat with tangy goodness, but it also ensures juiciness when roasted. Pairing this chicken with a variety of seasonal vegetables such as zucchini and bell peppers can elevate the dish even more, providing a colorful and nutritious aspect to your meal. Experiment with additional seasonings like cumin or chili powder for extra depth. For sides, consider serving with a fresh avocado salad or a zesty quinoa dish to balance the robust flavors of the chicken. The use of leftover chicken can also inspire creativity—think tacos, salads, or sandwiches the next day. With these tips, your cilantro lime chicken will not only taste amazing but also become a versatile staple in your weekly meal prep.