Home » Lunch & Dinner » Crock Pot Cilantro Lime Chicken

Crock Pot Cilantro Lime Chicken

Crock Pot Cilantro Lime Chicken

Get ready to transform your weeknight dinner with the most mouthwatering, effortless Mexican-inspired chicken recipe that will have your family begging for seconds! This Crock Pot Cilantro Lime Chicken is the ultimate set-it-and-forget-it meal that promises maximum flavor with minimal effort. Imagine tender, juicy chicken infused with zesty lime and fresh cilantro, all prepared with just minutes of prep time and your trusty slow cooker. Whether you're a busy professional, a home cook looking for simple yet delicious meals, or someone who craves bold, vibrant flavors, this recipe is about to become your new go-to dinner solution!

Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 4 hrs
Total Time: 4 hrs 10 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings

Ingredients

  1. 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  2. 1/4 cup lime juice
  3. 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
  4. 1 tsp garlic powder
  5. 1 tsp cumin
  6. Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the chicken breasts by patting them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps the seasonings adhere better and promotes even cooking.
  2. In a small mixing bowl, combine lime juice, chopped cilantro, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Whisk the ingredients together to create a uniform marinade that will infuse the chicken with vibrant flavors.
  3. Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker, arranging them in a single layer to ensure even cooking and maximum flavor absorption.
  4. Pour the prepared marinade evenly over the chicken breasts, making sure each piece is well-coated. Use a spoon or brush to distribute the marinade if needed.
  5. Cover the crock pot with its lid and set the temperature to low. Cook for 4 hours, which allows the chicken to become tender and fully absorb the cilantro and lime flavors.
  6. After cooking time is complete, use a meat thermometer to verify the internal temperature has reached 165°F (74°C), ensuring the chicken is fully cooked and safe to eat.
  7. Remove the chicken from the crock pot and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat moist and flavorful.
  8. Optionally, shred the chicken using two forks or slice it for serving. Garnish with additional fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice if desired.

Tips

  1. Pat the chicken breasts dry before seasoning to help the marinade stick better and ensure a more flavorful result.
  2. For extra depth of flavor, consider marinating the chicken in the lime and cilantro mixture for 30 minutes to 2 hours before slow cooking.
  3. Use fresh lime juice and freshly chopped cilantro for the most vibrant taste - avoid bottled lime juice if possible.
  4. Don't overcook! Check the chicken at the
  5. 5-hour mark to prevent drying out, using a meat thermometer to confirm doneness.
  6. For a spicier version, add a diced jalapeño or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade.
  7. Leftover chicken can be easily transformed into tacos, salads, or burrito bowls for quick next-day meals.
  8. If you prefer a saucier dish, add 1/4 cup of chicken broth to the crock pot to keep the meat extra moist.

Nutrition Facts

Calories: 289kcal

Carbohydrates: 2g

Protein: 52g

Fat: 6g

Saturated Fat: g

Cholesterol: 140mg

Pin Recipe Share Email

Share this:

Leave a Comment